ST:TTV622 | "The Lost Tribe"

Stardate 98187.7

While the dust settles from all the recent excitement for the crew, Azatul has a personal request to ask of Captain Keelah - one which he may regret broaching...

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Keelah@crystyl | The Valley Forge cruises along through deep space, pressing ahead with its mission. Daily routines return as the crew focuses on mapping the route ahead from long range sensors Keelah@crystyl relaxes in her quarters, reading through the daily reports while TP works away at the desk behind her on her studies. Keelah@crystyl | Their peace is interrupted by a chime of the door. TP looks up and springs to her feet, "I'll get it!" Keelah@crystyl | TP walks over to the door, opening it to see who is calling on them. T'Emp@anncaris | The door slides open to reveal the large, scarred grey Lupan towering over TP on the other side of the door Keelah@crystyl | TP looks up, and up, "Uh... hello!" T'Emp@anncaris | Azatul: "I come to speak with the Captain." Keelah@crystyl turns at recognizing the voice, "Azatul? This is a rare surprise. It's ok Pia, he is our guest" she smiles Keelah@crystyl | TP steps aside, mumbling, "Not like I could keep him out anyway..." Keelah@crystyl | TP gestures to the sofa, "But come in! Make yourself at home. Can I get you anything?" T'Emp@anncaris | Azatul lowers his head and steps through the doorway, "I am fine, thank you." He walks towards the sofa but doesn't sit, instead looking out the window Keelah@crystyl watches him curiously, "I assume you didn't call on me just for the view from this side of the ship?" T'Emp@anncaris | Azatul: "No, but it has been a long time since I have seen this view." Keelah@crystyl:"This view as in... from this position on the ship? Or this view as in, the region we are passing through?" T'Emp@anncaris | Azatul: "The region. This was the site of the greatest of our conflicts in recent history, prior to recent clashes with the Horde. Where I fought my first true battles." Keelah@crystyl stands, slowly moving to his side to look out at the view, "I imagine that to be quite the powerful memory for you. I am afraid I am ignorant to the details though, is it a tale you wish to regale?" T'Emp@anncaris | Azatul: "There are pleasant memories and unpleasant ones." He takes out a large oversized PADD he must have obtained from the Lodzki at some point, "I presume the Elders have shown you these - T'Emp@anncaris:- recordings?" He taps a button and the recording plays... T'Emp@anncaris | PADD: "...difficult to say what is in control of the Horde...the Fallen or... All we know...rampage endlessly...cannot halt." T'Emp@anncaris | PADD: "...knowledge...the Architect…of use against the Horde...The Fallen...their original bodies...the Portal…opened by our genetics...the Fallen...not be able to access..." T'Emp@anncaris | PADD: "...imperative that we...release the Architect....all other means...should we do so...his awakening...usher in...new era...domination over the Children." Keelah@crystyl nods, "I have heard that before, yes" T'Emp@anncaris | Azatul: "That is one of the few records we still possess from our creators. Much has been lost to the Lupan, as you understand." Keelah@crystyl:"Yes, I know your people have lost more of their heritage than I would wish even upon a foe" Keelah@crystyl | TP meanwhile, returns to the desk and pretends to continue working while actually listening and observing the curious interaction T'Emp@anncaris | Azatul: "Our stories tell of a First Sisterhood, a time when we knew far more than we did now. In one great battle, they were separated from us, along with the Progenitor ship they traveled - T'Emp@anncaris:- in. The other Lupan with them were forced to flee, and the Sisters that survived were the first Elders of the Sisterhood as we know them today, but with the original Elders and the Progenitor - T'Emp@anncaris:- vessel, much of what we knew was lost. And more, as we know now, were corrupted over the ages, both by failing technology and misinterpretation, as much of what the surviving Sisters knew were - T'Emp@anncaris:- passed on verbally. The vessel and its occupants were never found, and even now the Sisterhood searches for what remains of them." Keelah@crystyl:"You said this place was the site of your first battle. I assume that is not the same battle where this First Sisterhood was split off?" T'Emp@anncaris | Azatul: "No, that was far before my time. That was only several thousand years after the disappearance of the First Children, the ones you know as Iconians. The battles here were fought - T'Emp@anncaris:- because the Sisterhood were searching for the wreckage as they had been for a long time. They had reason to believe there was a Progenitor site in this region. When we came here, we were met with - T'Emp@anncaris:- a race known as the Vex, or what was left of their civilization after the Horde destroyed it. The Vex did not survive that conflict, and neither did many Lupan warriors. But in the end, the - T'Emp@anncaris:- entire war was for nothing. The Progenitor site turned out to be empty, long since looted of anything of value. So much life, wasted." Keelah@crystyl:"And this is the area we pass by now? The Progenitor site?" T'Emp@anncaris | Azatul: "It is nearby, not far off our course. The Sisterhood repurposed the obelisk there as a monument to our brothers and sisters who fell in the battles against the Vex. I would like to - T'Emp@anncaris:- pay it a visit since we are in the region, if it is possible." Keelah@crystyl looks back out the window, "Define 'not far'..." T'Emp@anncaris | Azatul: "The war was fought in the region we are passing through now, but the ruins themselves will require more travel. It is not far by the relative scale of Lupan travel paths, but it will - T'Emp@anncaris:- require...some diversion," he passes the PADD to Keelah. "I understand if the urgency of your current task makes this infeasible." Keelah@crystyl perks a brow as she reviews the data, returning to her seat with a sigh T'Emp@anncaris | Azatul: "It is your decision of course, Captain." Keelah@crystyl:"Ordinarily, this would be a reasonable diversion as we are exploring this region. But as you say, we are making a final push for the Heart of War right now. A runabout could make the trip, but that- Keelah@crystyl:- would still be a long turnaround for the mission making it much higher risk for a rendezvous afterwards..." Keelah@crystyl:"I hate to see you miss out on this though. Cultural significance is an important thing to us, and I imagine it is no easy thing for a proud man as yourself to come and ask for something like this. - Keelah@crystyl:I am reluctant to make it an order as it would technically be overstepping my bounds, but I can think of one possibility which would accommodate this" T'Emp@anncaris | Azatul: "I do not expect to come through this region again, which is why I asked. What is this possibility you are thinking of?" Keelah@crystyl smiles and stands, gesturing for him to stand as well as it is time for him to go, "Don't worry about that for now. Let me put some feelers out and - all being well - you will receive an update- Keelah@crystyl:- before too long with mission details" T'Emp@anncaris | Azatul stands as well, "I thank you, Captain. I will await an update." Keelah@crystyl | Later that day, Azatul does indeed receive a mission assignment asking him to report to the starboard hangar at a specific time... T'Emp@anncaris | Azatul strides into the hangar at the specified time... Observer@crystyl works away at her ship, hoses strung across the deck renewing it's supplies and a buzz of activity clearly preparing the ship to launch T'Emp@anncaris | Azatul looks around, making his way up to the ship, "I assume this is the vessel I was called to?" Observer@crystyl looks over, eyes widening at the sight of the impressive lupan, "Assuming you are the one I am taxiing" T'Emp@anncaris | Azatul: "I am. This craft of yours will take me to the ruins?" Observer@crystyl:"I don't about any ruins, but it will take us to the coordinates I have provided" T'Emp@anncaris | Azatul: "I do not believe the Captain is sending out any other long-range missions. I am ready to depart when you are." Observer@crystyl:"Right this way!" she chirps, stepping into the small ship Observer@crystyl climbs on board and begins the flight prep, "I apologize for the close quarters. This ship is designed to carry up to 3 people but the Creators are... less statuesque" Observer@crystyl | Azatul would indeed find that the entire interior is just a liiiiittle bit too small to be comfortable in any real way T'Emp@anncaris | Azatul squeezes through the shaft and moves around, trying to find a good spot, "Yes, this is a...small vessel. How long do you expect this journey to take with your craft?" Observer@crystyl:"The jump will not take long" T'Emp@anncaris | Azatul: "This will not be comfortable to remain in for days, but I can endure for a short journey." Observer@crystyl:"Look on the bright side, you now count among a few outside the Creators and Observers to have travelled in one of their ships" Observer@crystyl while talking, progresses the flight prep and launches from the VF T'Emp@anncaris | Azatul: "I have never seen a ship like this before. I am no Sister, but this technology seems very different from what we know." Observer@crystyl:"It is very different. The Creators are significantly more advanced than your average spacefaring civilization. That is why they use Observers like me to assess others discretely before risking - Observer@crystyl:- contact with anyone. At least that used to be the case..." T'Emp@anncaris | Azatul: "You assess other civilizations to see if they would be a threat to your Creators, then?" Observer@crystyl:"In a sense" she nods, "More precisely, to determine if they are trustworthy and fit for being considered as allies" T'Emp@anncaris | Azatul: "So you were created specifically for this purpose?" Observer@crystyl:"At the time, yes. Though technically I'm a second generation repurpose of the template. But initially, this Observer model was created to assess Starfleet, yes" T'Emp@anncaris | Azatul: "The template? Is that the one on the ship who is very much like you?" Observer@crystyl glances back with a smile and nods, "Cadet Tierno, yes. Well, Ensign now. But back then it was Cadet; a prime opportunity for observation. Not only to see how a society is within itself, but to see- Observer@crystyl:- how it educates and prepares its future leaders and representatives" T'Emp@anncaris | Azatul: "I presume they did well, which is why you're here now?" Observer@crystyl laughs, "Let's see... they contradicted my reports through their questionable actions, dragged the Creators into a war with their old nemesis, oh and yes; they betrayed me when I gave up everything - Observer@crystyl:- to try and help them avoid that war by negating their asylum process and sending me to be executed. So no, they did not do well at all!" T'Emp@anncaris | Azatul: "Then...why are you here now?" Observer@crystyl:"Because of her - the other me. I share her mind, and lived her life for over a year. I knew there was a spark of hope within this Federation, and I knew she embodied it. So when desperation drove - Observer@crystyl:- the Creators into exile from the homeworld, all Observers were recalled and reassigned to scouting. I chose to 'scout' my way after the Valley Forge because I knew if I the other me chose to - Observer@crystyl:- commit to this Captain, that she too would embody that spark of potential. That meant she would be one capable of helping us, and that's exactly what happened" she beams proudly T'Emp@anncaris | Azatul: "So you trust the Captain, but not the rest of their Federation?" Observer@crystyl:"I do not know the Captain, though recent events have certainly ingratiated her to me. I trust the other me though, and she follows this Captain. That's good enough for me" T'Emp@anncaris | Azatul nods, "I do not know of the rest of their Federation, but I have come to respect Captain Keelah and her ways. And your counterpart, she is quite a skilled tactician." Observer@crystyl grins, "Thank you!" taking it clearly as a personal complement, "Alright, we're ready to open the wormhole" T'Emp@anncaris | Azatul: "Is there any preparation we need to perform? Any...effects on us the wormhole will have?" Observer@crystyl:"No, nothing to worry about" she glances back, "Buuuut... it's /possible/ that electrostatic energy will build up in the compartment. Nothing dangerous, but it can make your hair stand on end..." - Observer@crystyl:- she turns to face him, "You may end up looking like a giant tribble for a while with all your fur. Of course I appreciate that could be quite demeaning so, if you /insisted/ I could help counter - Observer@crystyl:- the effect by compressing your fur..." her voices rises in pitch with a glint of inward hope at her cunning improvisation T'Emp@anncaris | Azatul: "Open the wormhole, then. And if you wish to assist..." Observer@crystyl 's heart skips a beat as the thought crosses her mind 'finally!', "Don't worry, it is just us warriors here so I will not tell if you do end up getting all fluffed up" Observer@crystyl proceeds to open up the wormhole before turning and watching Azatul with wide eyes T'Emp@anncaris | Azatul does indeed get fluffed up! He huffs and looks out the window with a slightly annoyed gaze Observer@crystyl tries to contain her excitement, "Don't worry, I've got your back" she reaches up and begins stroking the top of his head, "So soft..." she marvels under her breath T'Emp@anncaris | Azatul continues observing the view with an unamused look Observer@crystyl continues petting, "So if I may inquire, what is the purpose of our trip? I know I was given this task because of my ship's ability to make the trip expediently. But it would be useful to know - Observer@crystyl:- if anything more is required of me once we arrive. If we are facing any specific class of enemy for example. I do not carry many small arms on board, but should have something for most requirements T'Emp@anncaris | Azatul: "I do not expect any enemies. I simply wish to visit the obelisk that now honours my fallen brothers and sisters." Observer@crystyl tilts her head, "How does this obelisk honour your fallen brothers and sisters?" T'Emp@anncaris | Azatul: "It was also originally erected by our creators, but the Sisterhood altered it slightly, to be a monument to our war with the Vex." Observer@crystyl:"What was it before being a war monument?" T'Emp@anncaris | Azatul: "It was a simple obelisk, with markings typical to what one would find on one, and an entrance leading to the structure beneath." Observer@crystyl:"Sounds intriguing. I look forward to seeing it" she smiles, nuzzling her cheek against his fluffed up arm with a satisfied 'mmm...', "Tell me about your Creators. Are they like mine?" T'Emp@anncaris | Azatul: "I have never met one. No Lupan living today have. My people see them as gods now, but I suspect they were not so different from their creations. The Children that is, the people your - T'Emp@anncaris:- templates belonged to. There is a supposed one on the ship, one they have released from the Holy City, but so much has been forgotten about them, it is impossible to say whether he is really one - T'Emp@anncaris:- of them. The Elders seem to believe he is, but I have stopped following the Sisterhood long ago. If he truly is one of the Progenitors, then he can tell you much more about his people than I or - T'Emp@anncaris:- any Lupan ever can. All we know is that they seeded the Children across this galaxy based on their own genetics, and that they created us, as warriors to fight the Horde according to the Nuhar." Observer@crystyl:"I have not met him myself, but I know who you speak of. If he is supposedly one of your Creators as they believe, how come you haven't asked him about it for yourself?" T'Emp@anncaris | Azatul: "The Sisterhood have, I would imagine. I left that path behind long ago myself. Even if he is a Progenitor, he is no god. My people's existence proves that." Observer@crystyl:"What do you mean by that?" T'Emp@anncaris | Azatul: "We were made to be warriors against the Horde. That is why battle and bloodlust is a part of our very biology and psychology. But they failed to see that once they were gone, we would - T'Emp@anncaris:- not only forget the very purpose we were created to serve, but turn on the Children. Even now, there are still packs who continue to raid ships and colonies. What made us great warriors also made - T'Emp@anncaris:- dangerous, and the Progenitors did not have the measures in place to keep us in check. They make mistakes, just like anyone else." T'Emp@anncaris | Azatul: "I am sure some of them are worthy of respect, perhaps even reverence. But they were not gods. They were people." Observer@crystyl:"No arguments there. I have found that tends to be the case with almost all instances of reverence" Observer@crystyl randomly diverts, "I'm sorry, but I've got to ask; do you use some sort of conditioner? What's your secret?" T'Emp@anncaris | Azatul tilts his head, "Secret? To what?" Observer@crystyl:"Your fur. It's so soft and thick, I wish I could get such results with my hair!" T'Emp@anncaris | Azatul: "I...have no secret. This is how most Lupan fur is. Some Priestesses and Alphas specifically groom their appearance, but I do no such thing, for I am neither." Observer@crystyl:"I /knew/ it! You're lucky though to not even have to put any effort into it" she 'mmm's...' again, nuzzling her cheek against his fur which, in reality, is quite coarse. She obviously hasn't shared- Observer@crystyl:- a turbolift with Tiah yet... T'Emp@anncaris | Azatul: "We /were/ genetically uplifted by the Progenitors. But I do not think they gave much enhancement to our fur..." Observer@crystyl:"All I know is; this was worth the wait" she smiles to herself T'Emp@anncaris | Azatul quirks his head, "You were...waiting for this?" Observer@crystyl:"For so long now..." she muses with a whimsical tone T'Emp@anncaris | Azatul: "We are not the only people with fur. There are Children species, and a good number of non-sentients." Observer@crystyl:"Like tribbles you mean? But they're no fun. They just... sit around buzzing or whatever" T'Emp@anncaris | Azatul: "I would not say my people are 'fun' either." Observer@crystyl:"Don't sell yourself short. I have found our conversation so far to be very interesting" T'Emp@anncaris | Azatul: "I have found it interesting as well. But we are not usually a people you...groom fur with." Observer@crystyl:"Yes, my previous attempts were far less successful. But I'm glad we had this opportunity, anyway I should probably take us out of the jump now" she pries herself off him and returns to her controls Observer@crystyl 's words almost sound like they could have been clear a lot sooner. But she wouldn't force the circumstances just to pet him, would she? T'Emp@anncaris | Azatul nods and makes what seems like a Lupan version of a chuckle, "I can imagine what would happen if you attempted this with most other Lupan..." Observer@crystyl pilots the ship back through another aperture into normal space, "It was... not as welcome as I had anticipated..." Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Azatul quirks his head, "You expected it to be?" Observer@crystyl:"Well of course" she states matter-of-factly. "Every other fur-covered lifeform I had seen before seemed not only to allow the attention, but revel in it. Many often expressing their satisfaction - Observer@crystyl:- through verbal oscillations! All those others also seemed to grow attached to those giving the affection and develop a sort of loyalty to them, so being out on my own it was only natural that I - Observer@crystyl:- sought allies. What better way than to gain the affection of a capable warrior?" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Azatul: "Do you often develop loyalty with other capable warriors this way..." Observer@crystyl:"No, of course not! None of them are fluffy!" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Azatul: "I don't think the fur makes a difference. Warriors are warriors." Observer@crystyl:"But every other lifeform I've ever encountered with fur seems to respond well to the attention? Why should your people be any different?" she turns back with a smile, "It's ok if you're shy" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Azatul: "I am not shy! I probably respond better compared to any other Lupan. Another Lupan may try to bite your hand off, or chase you..." Observer@crystyl nods as she looks back to her controls, "That they did" she sighs, "Species' are far too complicated..." Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Azatul chuckles again, "Was that what happened in your less successful previous attempts?" Observer@crystyl nods again, "Yes, he tried to eat me. Then chased me. Then tried again to eat me..." Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Azatul: "That would be a typical Lupan response, yes. As I said, bloodlust is part of our very biology. Even a Priestess would not respond well if you tried that on them, and they are known - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- for being more diplomatic. The Sisters value knowledge and wisdom, but they are no pups when it comes to combat either." Observer@crystyl:"Ooh puppies! Hmm... perhaps I simply need to begin the training at a younger age. Thank you for the idea!" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Azatul: "What? No, that is /not/ what I meant. That is a bad idea." Observer@crystyl:"Bad idea? But surely training is more effective when commenced at a younger age? That is a constant with every species I know" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Azatul: "Yes, but you will never get your hands on Lupan pups, and I would highly advise against trying. There is only one thing more dangerous than an enraged Lupan male, and that is a Lupan - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- female when her young are threatened." Observer@crystyl:"Oh don't worry, I'd never threaten a puppy! Trust me; even though I am a fighter by nature, I can have a very delicate touch. I'm surprised you didn't notice...". she sounds a little offended with - Observer@crystyl:- the last part. "Anyway, we are approaching the coordinates and I have planet on sensors" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Azatul looks out the window for the planet as they draw closer Observer@crystyl | The planet comes into view Observer@crystyl:"I assume this is the place?" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Azatul: "Yes. This is the right world. Your sensors should be able to pick up the Progenitor ruins quite easily. Like most other Progenitor constructions, it is made out of adamant- our name - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- for the metal alloys they use predominantly. There should not be anything else like it on the planet." Observer@crystyl scans and nods, "I see it" altering the ship's course Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Azatul: "Thank you for bringing me here. Though I will appreciate it if you do not obsess over my fur any more." Observer@crystyl glances sideways to Azatul as he peers out the window. She reaches up and tries scratching him behind the ear Observer@crystyl looks to gauge his reaction as it's not technically fussing over his fur Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Azatul snarls slightly, "You are fortunate I am not most Lupan..." Observer@crystyl:"Wow, not even a scratch behind the ear? Damn, tough crowd..." she removes her hand and refocuses on the console Observer@crystyl | The shuttle begins to shake lightly as they descend Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Azatul: "Is this usual for your vessel?" Observer@crystyl works the controls more attentively, "No" she answers with a frustrated tone, "There is heavy ionization in the thermosphere. It is interfering with my guidance system. We can not land here" she - Observer@crystyl:- works some more and the ship alters course, still seems to be heading for a landing though Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Azatul: "We may have to land nearby and make our way to the obelisk, then. I don't suppose transporting is an option with the interference?" Observer@crystyl:"You are correct. I have identified a landing zone as close as we can risk to the stormfront. We will have to make the rest of the journey on foot" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Azatul nods, "That will do." Observer@crystyl proceeds with the altered landing. The ride continues as less than smooth, but nothing worrisome Observer@crystyl mutters as they pass into the cloud layer, "Even /I'm/ not adverse to a scratch behind the ear..." Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Azatul raises a clawed finger, "That may also be a bad idea from a Lupan..." Observer@crystyl smiles, "Not if the Lupan has a delicate touch!" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Azatul: "That is not a trait my people are known for..." Observer@crystyl:"Doesn't mean it is not possible" she notes distantly as they touch down on the surface, "There we go" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Azatul: "Do you wish to come with me or remain with your ship?" Observer@crystyl:"I have never seen a Progenitor ruin for myself. There is also a presence of wildlife here, so it would be wise for you not to travel alone" Observer@crystyl stands with that conclusion, "I will accompany you" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Azatul nods, "Let us proceed, then. I much prefer to be out in the open than crammed in here..." Observer@crystyl almost as if to prove his point, she awkwardly reaches across him to open the door for them to exit Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Azatul promptly squeezes out the hatch Observer@crystyl:| While Azatul exits and welcomes the fresh air, and headroom, the Observer packs up some supplies from inside before joining him with a small backpack worn Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Azatul stretches out to his full height, enjoying the freedom before he looks around, sniffing the air and getting a good gauge on their surroundings Observer@crystyl:| There is no doubt a great deal of familiarity to his senses here Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Azatul: "It has been a long time since I was last here. It does not seem like much has changed. One Lupan lifetime is not much time at all by the course of the universe." Observer@crystyl:"Are your lifespans so long that your concept of a long time would be significantly different to mine, do you think?" Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Azatul: "No, our lifespans are not long compared to most Children species. And only wise women and Sisters tend to reach the end of it. I am older than most, certainly one of the few males of my - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- age still alive." Observer@crystyl:"How come?" she asks innocently, clasping her thumbs through the shoulder straps of her backpack as they begin walking Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Azatul: "I did not encounter any that could best me in battle in my youth, and I gave up battle before I became old enough for someone to do so. I imagine there are a few younger warriors today - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- who have become better than me, but I have no desire to challenge them." Observer@crystyl:"So... you lost your bloodlust?" Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Azatul: "No. I...seek to suppress it. I do not embrace it blindly as I once did, as the Sisters tell us to. Too much unnecessary blood has been shed that way, Lupan, Children and others." Observer@crystyl:"Oh! Like how Vulcans suppress their emotions? But... suppressing bloodlust would not lead down a path of logic necessarily..." she hrms, working it through in her head Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Azatul: "I have heard a few things about Vulcans during my time on the ship, but I am only familiar with the basics of their ways. I do not seek to suppress my emotions, if that is what they do." Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Azatul: "Suppressing emotion sounds like folly to me, but I suppose many Lupan would say the same about my ways." Observer@crystyl:"So why did you go that way if it's so against the grain for your people? Is it part of why we're here?" Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Azatul: "Partly, yes. As I said, I have seen too much death that would have been prevented if we were not so consumed by our desire for battle. This place was one of them, though I did not think - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- that way at the time." Observer@crystyl:"I get the feeling that some of those deaths carry the sting of regret at a much more personal level. Did you lose control and take a life you wished not to?" Observer@crystyl:asks with infuriating innocence as she strolls along just ahead of him Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Azatul hangs his head low, "Yes. Yes I did." Observer@crystyl:senses the downward shift in his tone, stopping and turning to face him and placing a hand on his arm, "Hey, want to talk about it?" Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Azatul continues walking, "No. The Captain can tell you about it when we return, if you would like to know." Observer@crystyl:watches him a moment before jogging to catch up and hold pace behind him, "Bet that fur stroking doesn't sound so bad now though" she mutters, miscalculating what is or isn't in earshot Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Azatul: "It doesn't sound very good either." Observer@crystyl:pauses at the realization he heard her, and pouting at the rejected idea. She continues to trapse along behind him in silence for a few hours... Observer@crystyl:| As they walk along, Azatul would get a growing sense of an approaching storm front. And night is already drawing near... Alien NPC@annpc#557:Azatul: "There is a storm coming this way, and you do not seem to be made for nocturnal travel, unless your creators enhanced your capabilities. We should seek somewhere to take shelter." Observer@crystyl:"I was created at the peak of genetic potential for my template species" she glances up at the darkening sky, squinting in the rising wind, "But I am not impervious to the elements..." she scans - Observer@crystyl:- with a tricorder, "There is a large natural rock formation nearby... ish. It is the best chance of finding shelter, but still several kilometers away" Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Azatul: "My people are hardier than most, but we are not impervious either. Let us make our way there quickly there." Observer@crystyl:"Are... are you certain?" she hesitates, hedging closer to him Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Azatul: "I suppose your people do not move faster on all fours..." Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Azatul: "Do you have an alternative? Your craft is very far away as well now." Observer@crystyl:likely misinterprets his comment as confirmation of her wrong assumption, "Exactly, well as long as you're sure then!" she runs up to him and leaps onto his back! Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Azatul: "What are you doing? I am /not/ a mount!" Observer@crystyl:"Like you said, my musculo-skeletal structure does not support expeditious four legged travel like yours" Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Azatul tries to shake Observer off, "And my musculo-skeletal structure does not support being a mount!" Alien NPC@annpc#557:rolls 85 (1-100) Observer@crystyl:rolls 94 (1-100) Observer@crystyl:has a surprisingly reluctant grip and refuses to budge, "Think about it, how else are we going to reach shelter before the storm hits?" Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Azatul growls, "Are you /trying/ to test my patience? You /could/ ask if you want to see what I am capable of in combat. I did agree to a friendly spar with Captain Vix." Observer@crystyl:sounds genuinely hurt, "I don't understand why you're upset now. I can't be /that/ heavy that you have changed your mind already!" Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Azatul: "I suppose you are not. But Lupan are not mounts. I am no Sister, but I am fairly certain we are not built to be ridden." Observer@crystyl:"But before, you suggested it!" Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Azatul: "That was /not/ what I meant!" He sighs. "I suppose I will carry you there this once, as a favour for bringing me here with your wormhole. But touch my ear and I /will/ throw you off." Observer@crystyl:"Understood! I shall hold on tight, do not worry" she leans in, hugging tightly against him Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Azatul begins moving quickly on all fours, "Let me know if we are going in the right direction. I do not have a scanner." Observer@crystyl:has to raise her voice for him to hear over the wind, "If easier I can lean us in the required direction!" Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Azatul: "Yes, that will be good." Observer@crystyl:"You drive, I steer. We can make it!" she calls out again, having to shield her face from the lashing rain Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Azatul: "A good plan. We are already in the storm, but we may be able to shelter from the worst of it!" Observer@crystyl:"According to my scanner, this is barely the edge of the front. It will get much worse!" Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Azatul: "I will try to get us to the rock formation as quickly as I can, then." Observer@crystyl:"You can do it!" Observer@crystyl:| The pair race through the wilderness, Azatul moving like he hasn't in years no doubt Observer@crystyl:| As the storm intensifies, they do make it to the rocky terrain and find a cave entrance to take shelter in Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Azatul: "Here we are. I think the worst of the storm is yet to come." Observer@crystyl:"I guess this is camp for the night" she says, hopping down off his back and ruffling her wet hair Observer@crystyl:may have been standing close enough to splash him with ruffled out water droplets... Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Azatul gives the Observer a glare, "Do you want me to shake the water out of my fur next to you? I have much more water collected on my fur..." Observer@crystyl:looks over, clearly not comprehending, "Hm?" Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Azatul proceeds to shake the water from his fur at the same distance... Observer@crystyl:gasps at the sudden shower. Frowning as she turns to him, rigidly wiping the water from her face, "...point taken..." she huffs, moving to make camp Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Azatul sniffs the cave to see if any other creature might be in here Observer@crystyl:| He does indeed sense that they are not alone... Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Azatul turns back to the Observer, "There is something else in this cave, or at least something else has been in here recently." Observer@crystyl:tries her scanner, "The mineral formation of these rocks is preventing me from getting an exact read" Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Azatul: "I suppose we will have to try and find what it is, so it does not surprise us when we are resting." Observer@crystyl:"Do you require my assistance on the hunt, or shall I remain here to prepare camp. I assume we will consume the kill to save on rations?" Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Azatul: "Wait here and prepare the camp. We may get in each other's way within this cave." Observer@crystyl:"Very well!. Good hunting" Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Azatul proceeds deeper into the cave, following his sense of smell to track down whatever it is he detected Observer@crystyl:settles in to build a campfire and make herself comfy in the meantime. Alien NPC@annpc#557:| A few minutes later, Observer hears snarls and squeals echoing through the cave. Not long after, Azatul re-emerges, carrying what appears to be an oversized rodent-like creature with rows of tiny - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- sharp teeth and almost bird-like talons for claws Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Azatul: "It should be edible. I don't smell anything venomous." Observer@crystyl:sits by the small fire in her underwear. Her armour draped across a rock in the corner where it dries out. She holds her knees to her chest as she looks up, "A successful hunt, good" Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Azatul sets the creature by the fire, "It was very agile, but did not put up much of a fight once I caught up with it. Its features suggest it usually preys on creatures smaller than itself, and - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- was not well-equipped to handle a larger foe." Observer@crystyl:"Well as long as it tastes good, that's all that matters now" Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Azatul: "We shall soon find out." He sits himself down by the fire as well Observer@crystyl:| As the night draws on and the pair eat in awkward silence, the storm rages outside... Observer@crystyl:| Eventually, with the fire burned out, the pair attempt to get some sleep Observer@crystyl:curls up awkwardly against a rock. Shivering uncontrollably Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Azatul curls up on the cave floor, opening one eye and looking across at the Observer, "You seem cold. Or was it the creature we ate?" Observer@crystyl:"I- i- it's f-f-fine. I'm n-n-n-not... c-c-c-c-cold....". she answers stubbornly Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Azatul: "You do not have fur to keep you warm, after all. It will be difficult to find more material for another fire in the storm, though." Observer@crystyl:"M-m-m...hmm...." Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Azatul sighs and gets up, "Do you need me to keep you warm?" Observer@crystyl:gives a long pause, obviously trying to find a valid way to decline before residing and nodding vigorously, "M-m-m...hmmm!" Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Azatul makes his way over next to Observer, wrapping his arms around her, "Better?" Observer@crystyl:adjusts her position to snuggle up to him as much as possible and nods Observer@crystyl:| Another long silence ensues as the storm howls around the cave entrance Observer@crystyl:finally stops shivering and mutters a slightly whispered and humble, "Thank you" Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Azatul: "I'm only doing this because if you freeze to death, I don't know how to operate your ship." Observer@crystyl:smiles, nuzzling against his arm turned fluffy pillow, "Mhmm..." having already convinced herself that's not the case and that he secretly likes the attention but just won't admit it... --- Alien NPC@annpc#557:| The next day, the tail end of the storm still rages outside, and they wait until midday, when the rain has finally settled down Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Azatul: "It should be clear enough to travel again." Observer@crystyl:has spent most of the morning in awkward silence following their difficulties the day before Observer@crystyl:peers out and nods, "Alright then. We still have a ways to go" Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Azatul nods as well, making his way out of the cave and into the light drizzle still outside. In the wake of the storm, a mist clings to their surroundings, though it is not particularly thick Observer@crystyl:steps out after him, strapping the backpack on Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Azatul gives the Observer a glance, "Which way towards the ruins from here?" Observer@crystyl:scans and points, "That way" Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Azatul begins making his way in the direction the Observer pointed out, moving quickly but only on two legs, allowing the Observer to keep pace, though she still has to work at it with the larger - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- Lupan's much longer strides Observer@crystyl:trudges along in his wake, managing well enough to match his pace Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Azatul walks silently, with the only sound being his footsteps when he walks over a branch or some leaves. The sounds of the vibrant nature around them make up the majority of the noise as they - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- travel Observer@crystyl:takes the opportunity to enjoy the setting Alien NPC@annpc#557:| The two move in silence for some time as the drizzle dies down and the mist around them begins to dissipate, giving a clearer view of their surroundings Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Suddenly and without warning though, Azatul comes to a stop Observer@crystyl:bumps into his back as she was distracted by looking everywhere else, "oomph!" Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Azatul isn't even stumbled by the Observer bumping into him as he raises his head and sniffs the air Observer@crystyl:"What is it?" she asks quietly, figuring it's his hunter instincts at work Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Azatul: "A scent I have not smelled in a long time. It smells like Vex, but that should not be possible." Observer@crystyl:steps around beside him, "The enemy you fought on this world? I do recall you saying they were extinct after that..." Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Azatul nods, "They were a warrior race as well, one who would not surrender. They fought to the end, and there has not been a sighting of Vex for over fifty years." Observer@crystyl:"How do you wish to proceed? I can scout them out if needed" Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Azatul: "I think they are coming towards us. Be prepared." Observer@crystyl:draws her weapon and scans the area Alien NPC@annpc#557:| There are indeed three lifeforms coming towards them.. Observer@crystyl:silently indicates the direction of the approach as she moves to find cover Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Azatul follows, moving behind cover as well. Before long, three tall, bony aliens step into view. One of them looks around, sniffs and then makes a grunt, motioning towards their cover. Then, all - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- three begin running towards them.. Observer@crystyl:looks to Azatul to gauge his instinct and desired response before acting Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Azatul hunches over but doesn't spring into action yet, watching the aliens. Two of them circle around their cover and attack almost immediately, rushing at them Observer@crystyl:jumps into action on a defensive instinctive, firing at the one in front of them before latching onto a branch above them to spin herself around and face down at the others Alien NPC@annpc#557:| The one she hits goes down and Azatul pounces on the second one, pinning it to the ground before it can reach them. The Observer spins around towards the third, who has joined in the charge... Observer@crystyl:braces her feet against the branch she perches on and launches herself at the last one aiming to lock her arms around its neck and use her momentum to snap it clean as she lands behind it Alien NPC@annpc#557:| The Observer manages to snap the third one's neck as Azatul backhands the one he pinned down, knocking it out before spinning around to see the other two are already taken care of Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Azatul: "Not bad." Observer@crystyl:stands still poised, glancing back over her shoulder, "Your didn't do bad yourself for a pacifist" Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Azatul: "I only knocked it out. I still remember how to fight, and this one, it did not have much tact to its attack. There is something off about them..." Observer@crystyl:approaches the KO'd alien to take a more detailed scan Alien NPC@annpc#557:| There is no sign of the neural markers of Horde influence, but there is evidence of genetic tampering... Observer@crystyl:"This species is genetically engineered..." Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Azatul nods, "Yes. That's it." He raises the arm of the one he knocked out, running a finger down its length. "Your favourite- fur." Observer@crystyl:tries it but shakes her head, "Too bony. It feels weird..." Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Azatul: "That's because none of the Vex I've encountered before had any fur. It's not as thick as that of a Lupan's, but they're not supposed to have it at all." Observer@crystyl:"Why would someone retrospectively engineer a species to give them fur. To help survive this environment perhaps?" Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Azatul: "I am not sure. They were an intelligent species, easily capable of making clothing even if these ones have not been taught the technology that the Vex had when we encountered them." Observer@crystyl:"Perhaps we will find more answers closer to the ruins. They did come from that direction I believe" Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Azatul nods, "Let us proceed to the ruins then and see what we find there." --- Alien NPC@annpc#557:| After some more walking, the two begin to approach the ruins. There are pieces of excavated metals all around, but the centrepiece is a single obelisk atop a platform Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Azatul stops and sniffs, before kneeling down and brushing aside some grass, "The Vex have been through here recently." Observer@crystyl:"Can you tell if it is the same group we faced before?" Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Azatul: "The scent is different, but the tracks look like they have been made by people with the same type of prints." Observer@crystyl:"Any ideas what they might be doing here?" Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Azatul: "No. They were here before, when we took the ruins from them, but there was nothing of value in the ruins. Either the Vex or someone else had already looted them. This is not the world - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- they originated from, and if there are survivors, I cannot see any reason for them to return here." Observer@crystyl:"What was their interest in the ruins previously then?" Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Azatul: "I...do not think they had any. They were not defending the ruins, they were defending the world. They had small colonies here, before we destroyed them." Observer@crystyl:"Perhaps there is something of more significance to them here than you realized, given they are still defending it even now" Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Azatul: "Perhaps, but...why the genetic engineering? The Vex were not known to do such things when we fought them." Observer@crystyl:"Perhaps they are not the ones who did the engineering" Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Azatul: "A good point." He stands and makes his way towards the central obelisk, "The tracks seem to lead here. They may be within the structures beneath." Observer@crystyl:"We should proceed with caution" Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Azatul: "Yes, we should. This could be a trap." Observer@crystyl:"This is your fight, an enemy you know better than I. Tell me how you wish to proceed and I will follow your guidance" Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Azatul: "I do not wish to fight them if it can be avoided. I do not come to finish the eradication of their species that my people started." Observer@crystyl:"Then I shall be sure to incapacitate only during any further encounters" Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Azatul nods, "Thank you. Now, let's see what these ruins hold..." Observer@crystyl:gives a firm nod and follows Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Azatul steps up the platform onto the obelisk, reaching forward to touch it... Alien NPC@annpc#557:...when suddenly the door begins to open beneath him! He leaps back as the passageway slides open between the steps and the obelisk, and more of the bony aliens move out, these ones armed. The - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- two in the front hold spears, followed by two with large rifles of Lupan design, then two with more makeshift-looking rifles built from mismatching, salvaged components Observer@crystyl:stands ready to defend herself, but doesn't make the first move Alien NPC@annpc#557:| The first two point their spears warily in their directions, each flanked by two rifle-wielders whose weapons are raised, but they do not fire. Azatul also stands ready, but glances to the - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- Observer, "These ones seem more...intelligent." Alien NPC@annpc#557:| They get a closer look at these Vex, who clearly do not have any fur Alien NPC@annpc#557:FX | https://i.pinimg.com/originals/66/42/e1/6642e125457444730b00545ae22a81a1.jpg Observer@crystyl:"Indeed. They are also not attacking us on sight..." Alien NPC@annpc#557:| From the passage emerges a seventh alien, this one with a cape trailing down his back. He holds a mace, with the macehead created from the same material as that of the ruins around them Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Caped Vex: "So the hunters have come for us. Kill the Lupan, but keep its little servant alive." Observer@crystyl:"Hey! I am no servant, thank you very much!" Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Azatul: "And I do not come to harm you." Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Caped Vex: "I find both difficult to believe. Why would you come here if you do not seek to finish what you have begun?" He looks to the Observer, "And why would you accompany one of them, who - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- views our kind as inferiors, unless you are in their servitude?" Observer@crystyl:"I accompany him because he needed my assistance to travel here" Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Caped Vex: "And why has he come here?" Observer@crystyl:looks to Azatul, "I would not presume to speak for one who is perfectly able to speak for himself. Just... listen to him" Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Azatul: "This obelisk was made into a monument for the war with your people. I have come to remember the brothers and sisters I fought against, who fell in the war." Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Caped Vex: "You do not deny your role in the destruction of our people? Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Azatul: "No, I do not. I killed many of your brethren in the war, when I was young and relished in battle. I would not do so again if I were asked to now, but I cannot change what is already done." Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Caped Vex: "Can't you?" Observer@crystyl:tilts her head, "You must have a very skewed perception of a Lupan's ability if you think he can rewrite history. Unless you are assuming that is within my realm of abilities. Understandable and - Observer@crystyl:- flattering, but inaccurate" Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Caped Vex: "Rewrite history, no, but you do not know the extent of a Lupan's ability, or their dedication." He looks to Azatul again, "This place /is/ a monument, but why have you come alone? Or - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- does your pack lie in wait to ambush us on your signal?" Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Azatul: "I have no pack. I am an exile." Alien NPC@annpc#557:| The Caped Vex looks to the Observer, "And you? Who are you and why have you chosen to assist him?" Observer@crystyl:"Because despite what he thinks, he is not packless. He simply hasn't realized that he belongs to the same pack I now do. A pack of explorers called the Valley Forge" Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Caped Vex: "I have not heard of you. Are there many Lupan with you?" Observer@crystyl:shakes her head, "He is the only one, and I am the only one of my kind there. Well... sort of, but that's a very complicated story that you will regret asking for details on just now" Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Caped Vex: "Perhaps you are telling the truth. Perhaps you are not. Mother will know, but I cannot risk bringing a Lupan to her. You," he looks to Azatul, "remain out here. The little one can - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- come with me." Observer@crystyl:frowns at being dubbed 'the little one', but looks to Azatul, "Remain true to yourself. I will return once I have spoken with their mother" Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Azatul nods, "Be careful. I understand the wariness of these people, but that does not necessarily mean their intentions are solely for self-protection." Observer@crystyl:"I am an Observer" she offers as way of absolute assurance of her ability to handle anything they throw at her Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Azatul: "I'm not entirely certain what that entails, but you have shown yourself capable in combat, at least..." Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Meanwhile, the caped Vex turns and heads back down into the ruins, motioning the Observer along Observer@crystyl:smiles and turns back to follow the Vex Alien NPC@annpc#557:| The Vex leads her through the staircase into the ruins, which is much larger beneath the surface, She passes through chambers where other Vex can be seen going about their day to day life. The - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- ruins are not empty as Azatul described them, but she can see that most of the technology within is clearly not consistent with the ruin itself. The Vex she passes almost all stop and look in her - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- direction curiously, and she can hear some of chatting to one another about the mysterious visitor Observer@crystyl:is well accustomed to being a pariah and strides along, head held high. Totally not trying to counter the 'little one' image... Alien NPC@annpc#557:| All the Vex here seem to look like the armed ones that met them just outside, none of them sporting fur. Some look a little different but seem to be females rather than a genetically modified - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- variant judging from the differences Observer@crystyl:mentally notes all she sees as they progress Alien NPC@annpc#557:| The caped Vex soon leads her into a chamber that seems to be set up with a variety of medical and scientific equipment and is the most full of consoles out of the entire ruin. Readouts scroll and - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- flash all around them. They pass through the chamber into another, smaller area which seems to be a sparsely decorated living area, in the centre of which kneels a cloaked and hooded figure. By - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- the figure's proportions, it is clearly not one of the Vex, or if it is, something genetically altered to be much bulkier Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Caped Vex: "Mother. I have brought the Child that accompanied the Lupan here." Observer@crystyl:groans but bites her tongue Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Mother: "And the Lupan?" Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Caped Vex: "Alive and being watched outside. He claims he is not here to harm us." Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Mother: "Is that true? Do you speak for him, Child?" Observer@crystyl:"It is true that he waits outside, and that he is not here to harm you. It is also true that I speak for him here, though since he was forbidden to enter that is pretty much a given. It is however- Observer@crystyl:- not true that I am a child" Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Mother: "You are one of the Children, like the Vex, are you not?" Observer@crystyl:"I am not. My template was of a Child race, but I myself am not" Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Mother: "Template? Interesting. What exactly are you, then?" Observer@crystyl:"I a Observer 93108. A cultural observation clone of Junayd origin" Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Mother: "Curious. Very curious. I am not familiar with 'Junayd.' Observer@crystyl:"the Creators are from a distant part of this quadrant, as are many of the vessel which the Lupan outside and I now belong" Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Mother: "And this Lupan- he truly comes in peace?" Observer@crystyl:nods, "He is unlike other Lupan I have met in my own travels. He did not chase or try to eat me when I petted him" Observer@crystyl:"I brought this Lupan here at his request to come and pay respects to the fallen from the war he fought here against your people. Until we encountered the furry variety of your kind in the - Observer@crystyl:- wilderness he believed your kind to be extinct following that war" Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Mother: "He believes correctly. The Vex /were/ extinct." Observer@crystyl:"You are not Vex. I take it you are the one responsible for revitalizing them" Alien NPC@annpc#557:| 'Mother' stands and turns, lowering her hood and revealing a Lupan head with greying fur, "Yes. That is correct." Observer@crystyl:"As I suspected" she nods, unsurprised at the appearance, "The reason you had my friend wait outside was to hide your presence here from him. If I were to guess further, I would say the Vex who - Observer@crystyl:- attacked us in the wild before, the furred variety, were remnants of failed earlier attempts to revitalize the species. Your goals must be as driven as Azatul's in his pacifism" Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Mother: "You are a very keen one, Observer. And aptly named. The ones you encountered in the wild are indeed failed experiments. I did not wish to kill them, for they too are my children, but - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- not what I had hoped for. I have sterilized them to prevent the unintended creation of new species, but released them out into the wild so they may live their lives." Alien NPC@annpc#557:| She takes a step closer to the Observer, "So this Azatul, he is a pacifist?" Observer@crystyl:looks up at the Lupan, "He does not exactly talk about it, not with me anyway. But I believe that is the best word for him, yes" Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Mother: "I trust, with observation skills like yours, that you are as correct about him as you are about me. Do you know why he has become as he is now?" Observer@crystyl:"He has not divulged the reasons to me in detail. It may be an accumulation of things over his life, including the war that took place here. I do believe he is largely driven to it by guilt; that he- Observer@crystyl:- has taken a life or lives that he did not wish to, that he lost control and lives with that regret" Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Mother nods, "Something I can sympathize with. Your account sounds genuine, Observer, and you have given me no reason to doubt you. I had to be careful with any Lupan here, however. My work is - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- exactly sanctioned by the Sisterhood, and I did not know whether they would send their warriors to hunt me." Observer@crystyl:"Now that we established that, will you speak with Azatul?" Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Mother nods and picks up a comm device on a nearby desk, tapping it, "Bring him in." Observer@crystyl:"So what is your interest in the Vex. Did you also fight in the conflict here?" Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Mother turns back to the Observer, "I was the one who learned of the location of these ruins. I was the one who brought the Lupan here. I fought in the conflict that ensued, came to this ruin, - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- and found it empty. I brought about the annihilation of the Vex, all for this gutted facility." Observer@crystyl:"And so much like my friend out there, you sought redemption" Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Mother: "There was only one way I could do that. Use the knowledge the Sisterhood possessed to recreate them. The Elders did not approve, so I stole what I needed and came back here." Observer@crystyl:"I see. In the interest of full disclosure, you should be aware that much has changed in this corner of the galaxy in recent years. Including the Sisterhood beginning to reunite the Lupan packs - Observer@crystyl:- and taking their place in a new alliance of species calling itself the Coalition" Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Mother: "Why would they do that? It is not their way to make allies. The Sisterhood teaches that we are superior, that we have the right to dominion over other species, to genocide if we so - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- desired. Yes, the Elders of my time are long dead now, their age cannot possibly permit them to still be alive, but the Sisterhood could not possibly have changed so much..." Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Behind them, Azatul steps into the room, flanked by the two Vex holding Lupan rifles Observer@crystyl:"It is less of a new change and more of a return to your people's origins. I assume a former Sister, you are well aware of your own origins?" Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Azatul: "Sister Bahet?" Observer@crystyl:glances back, allowing the reunion to play out as she steps aside Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Mother: "That is what I was once called, but I am a Sister no more. We do not know our origins, only that the ones who built these ruins also created us. The rest are gaps filled in by the - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- Sisterhood who spread them as fact, but I have my doubts." Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Azatul: "You as well? I did not know there were other Lupan who doubted." Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Mother: "Many of us are silenced. But yes, much of our history has been lost, and I do not believe the Sisterhood has the full picture." Observer@crystyl:"From what we know, it is true. One of these creators of yours - the Progenitors - was recovered from the destruction of the Lupan's Holy City and confirms the genetic uplift of your species to - Observer@crystyl:- combat the Horde. That is also why the Sisterhood is associated with the Coalition; many species now stand together against the Horde not far from here" Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Azatul nods, "It is thanks to the ship I travel with now that the Sisterhood learned the truth." Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Mother: "That...would explain much, yes. When I was searching for the First Sisterhood, the only force that matched the description of what we fought against when they were lost is the Horde, but - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- I did not know why we would choose to fight such an enemy. I thought perhaps it was our foolish pride, but if we were uplifted to fight them...it corroborates the Hataya sources." Observer@crystyl:"That is at least, my limited understanding of things. I am still very new to this group but tried to learn all I could about the Lupan before we embarked on this mission. I am however, unfamiliar - Observer@crystyl:- with this 'Hataya', can you elaborate?" Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Mother: "Hataya was one of the survivors of the First Sisterhood, one of the few who had been on a different ship when the majority of them were separated and thought lost. The Hataya sources are - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- the information we have stemming from what she passed down, and they state that we were fighting our 'sworn nemesis' during that battle. If the Hataya sources are correct, it also means there are - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- no accounts confirming that the First Sisterhood was killed, only that they were separated. Their prerogative was to preserve the information they held, and only destroy it when there was no other - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- option, if it was certain it would fall into the hands of this 'sworn nemesis.' Because the ship was not seen to have self-destructed, it may have escaped the battle intact instead." Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Mother: "This means there's a chance that Kaneli's Lost Tribe theory is correct. That not only is the information held by the Sisterhood still out there somewhere, but perhaps the descendants of - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- those who safeguarded them as well." Observer@crystyl:"It is possible our ship has leads on this lost tribe of yours. They are reasonably advanced and capable explorers and they've been gathering information on this region for some time now" Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Mother: "Possible, yes, but I have no interest in pursuing that search any further. The last time I was involved in it, I brought about the genocide of the remaining Vex people. My only concern - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- now is protecting my children here." Observer@crystyl:"Understandable" Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Azatul: "Your children may not be safe here. This is within territory controlled by the Horde now, and though there is no Horde in this region now, they may return." Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Mother: "Where else can I go?" Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Azatul: "Back to the Sisterhood." Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Mother: "Even though I have stolen from them and disobeyed their orders?" Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Azatul looks to the Observer, "I have not spoken with them of late, only heard that they have changed. Do you think they and the Coalition will accept her and the Vex here?" Observer@crystyl:"I am not authorized to speak for them. My Creators are very new to this alliance as well still. But I do believe that our Captain would be most interested in forging an alliance with you on behalf - Observer@crystyl:- of the Coalition" Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Mother nods, "Very well. Speak to your Captain of it, then. I have only come here to hide from the Sisterhood, but if the Sisterhood is willing to leave me be, and your Coalition is truly a safer - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- place for my children, then I will go there with them." Observer@crystyl:"The consensus around those I've encountered so far is a belief in Captain Keelah's ideal of 'strength in unity'. I will happily convey your wishes to her" Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Mother: "Thank you. I hope this is the beginning of a better future for the New Vex." --- Alien NPC@annpc#557:| After their talk with Mother, Azatul and the Observer make their way out of the ruins onto the surface of the planet once again Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Azatul: "That was not what I expected to find when I sought to come here...but it is fortunate we arrived." Observer@crystyl:"This was a positive outcome weighed against your original objective then?" Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Azatul: "I came only to visit the monument, but it is good to know that a former Sister has returned the Vex from extinction. And it is fortunate we have come here before the Horde found them." Observer@crystyl:"On that we are agreed" Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Azatul: "Thank you for speaking with Sister Bahel- or Mother, as she is called now, and telling her of the Coalition." Observer@crystyl:"It was necessary to provide satisfactory explanation for our presence on this world" Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Azatul: "Most Lupan would have attacked, especially after the encounter with the failed experiments earlier. You did well in your explanation. I suspect the Vex would not have even bothered to - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- speak if you were not here either." Observer@crystyl:"Perhaps, though the outcome was hardly by design. Nonetheless, I am... glad that this is a welcome outcome to your pilgrimage" Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Azatul: "And I...am glad you came with me. Shall we return to your ship and make our way back to inform the Captain of everything here?" Observer@crystyl:"At your discretion. I have no timetable here so we can stay as long as you like" Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Azatul takes another glance at the obelisk behind them before looking back to the Observer, "Let us return. I have learned that the Vex live still, and that is much better than what I hoped to - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- find here." Observer@crystyl:"Very well then, if we make good time we should be able to reach the ship by nightfall" Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Azatul nods and begins walking, "Keep your guard up. There may be more of the failed experiments around." Observer@crystyl:walks along beside him, "I am an Observer" Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Azatul: "Yes, I suppose that is what you are good at. And do refrain from playing with my fur when we are back on the ship..." Observer@crystyl:"I will try" Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Azatul: "Only when we are in the wormhole. It...is helpful in there." Observer@crystyl:grins, "Well, if you insist..." Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Azatul: "/Only/ inside the wormhole. And do not extend our duration inside for the sake of it..." Observer@crystyl:gasps, "As if I would..." Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Azatul: "Yes, of course you would not..." Observer@crystyl:"See. I'm glad we're finally building this bond of trust" Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Azatul: "As am I. But don't think it means you can pet me whenever you wish. And riding is certainly out of the question." Observer@crystyl:"That was purely a necessary means for us to reach shelter! I derived no pleasure from the experience" Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Azatul: "I hope there are no more storms in the area..." Observer@crystyl:"You will likely know before me. Despite my superior genetics I am still constrained by those of my template. Those sense are one area where your species is inherently superior" Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Azatul: "That is something I believe species like mine have naturally, but the Progenitors may have enhanced it as well when uplifting us." Observer@crystyl:"That would be my assumption" Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Azatul: "I will keep alert for any storms then. If there is one, we will head to shelter immediately so I do not have to carry you there." Observer@crystyl:smiles quietly a moment before adding, "For what it is worth; considering the time you have spent avoiding your natural hunter instincts does not seem to have dulled your physical prowess" Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Azatul: "I have sworn not to kill sentient beings. I still hunted non-sentients for food, it was only battle I avoided." Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Azatul: "And you are quite adept at combat...for someone based on a Children template," he gives a grin Observer@crystyl:smiles, "If you ever desire it for sport or entertainment, I would happily spar with you" Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Azatul: "Perhaps once we return to the ship. Unless you annoy me enough before we return." Observer@crystyl:"Impossible!" she chirps enthusiastically Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Azatul: "We will see..." --- Alien NPC@annpc#557 | After the Observer and Azatul's return to the Valley Forge, the two proceed to the ready room, ringing the doorbell Keelah@crystyl sits by the window, reading, "Come in" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Azatul steps in, making his way across the room, "Captain Keelah." Keelah@crystyl smiles, "Azatul, welcome back. How was your trip?" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Azatul: "It was...interesting. We found something at the ruins I had not been expecting." Keelah@crystyl:"You seem... lighter somehow, like you're carrying a little less of the weight of the galaxy on your shoulders. Come, sit, I would like to hear all about it" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Azatul steps closer, lowering himself onto his knees and sitting in the fashion most Lupan do, "I suppose that is an apt description." Keelah@crystyl | The Observer sits across from Keelah, more at Azatul's side Keelah@crystyl:"I take it things went well then, despite the unexpected?" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Azatul nods, "We found Vex at the ruins, the species I thought extinct after our battles with them in this region. One of the Sisterhood's former priestesses, the very one who located the ruin - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- and sparked the conflict, had recreated the species." Keelah@crystyl perks a brow, "I'm sorry... 'recreated' them?" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Azatul: "I am no Sister and do not know the scientific details behind it. However, the former Sister Bahel claims that the Vex were indeed extinct. I assume that means she used what she could - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- acquire of their genetic material to make new members of the species, but it does not appear to be simple cloning. We encountered failed experiments, Vex that were not entirely Vex with traits of - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- other species. I suspect the genetic material she had was incomplete, and Bahel had to experiment and fill in the gaps." Keelah@crystyl | Observer nods, "She likely used elements of her own genetics to fill in the gaps. The Vex we encountered were engineered" Keelah@crystyl:"A most curious development indeed. I imagine you have very mixed feelings about this turn of events" she address to Azatul Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Azatul: "I am pleased that the Vex are not extinct. But they are not entirely safe here either. Bahel came here to hide from the Sisterhood, as she stole their data and materials to conduct - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- her research, but this brought her closer to the Horde. I was hoping you may be able to negotiate safe harbour for her and her...children with the Coalition." Keelah@crystyl hrms, "How many children are we talking about?" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Azatul: "I do not have a precise count, but the ruins could not house more than a hundred, and from what Bahel said of the failed experiments, it seems the successful ones live exclusively - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- inside the ruins. She may intend to create more, as she seeks to rebuild enough of a population to bring back the species from extinction." Keelah@crystyl:"And what about these failed experiments? I get the impression we aren't just talking containers of genetic material?" Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Azatul: "No, they are living beings, but Bahel seems content to let them roam the planet and live out their lives there. I do not believe they have the intelligence of an actual Vex, or if they - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- do, they are not entirely in their right minds. The ones we encountered attacked us like feral beasts. Bahel has made them sterile, so they will not start new species of their own if left on the - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- planet." Keelah@crystyl:"Is it wrong that my first thought now turns to the scenario where the Horde come here and consume those left behind into their ranks..." Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Azatul: "I do not think they are numerous enough to substantially affect the Horde's numbers, otherwise the Observer's ship would have detected such a large population with its scans and - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- we would have known they were present. If the Horde do consume the few on the planet, the sterilization will mean they will not provide any new genetic material to the Horde for breeding. That is - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- assuming the Horde will even take note of the small size of experiments left there." Keelah@crystyl:"A fair point. I hate what this conflict has turned me into sometimes..." she sighs before looking back to him, "Well a population so small is easily transposed, and I am certain the genetic - Keelah@crystyl:- expertise will be invaluable. The only question is the likely reaction from the Sisterhood" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Azatul: "That...I am less certain of. It has been a long time since I have spoken with any of them, especially the Elders." Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Azatul: "All of the Elders of Bahel's time are dead now, so perhaps the new leaders will be more accepting. As you said, her expertise is something that can be very useful." Keelah@crystyl:"I can certainly make arrangements with the Coalition to get a ship out here to relocate the population. I am also uncertain how the Sisterhood will be with this, or how to approach them" Keelah@crystyl:"I am however willing to speak to them if you wish me to negotiate for the Vex and their creator" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Azatul: "I will appreciate if you explained the situation to them. You do not have to reconcile them, as long as they are willing to allow these New Vex to take refuge with the Coalition." Keelah@crystyl:"Very well, I will establish contact with the Sisterhood and investigate the situation from their side" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Azatul: "Thank you, Captain. I hope the Coalition will be able to protect the Vex until they are able to become a faction of their own right. And I hope by seeing the different species of the - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- Coalition work together, these Vex will become something better than the original species they were created from." Keelah@crystyl smiles, "If nothing else, I can be certain that this will give them the best chance" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Azatul: "Indeed it will. It is fortunate that we discovered these Vex, rather than the Horde or other Lupan." Keelah@crystyl:"Very much so. It would seem that fate continues smile upon us" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Azatul: "Let's hope it continues to as we search for that Iconian facility." Keelah@crystyl:"Indeed. Is there anything more I should know before speaking to the Sisterhood, or do we have things covered?" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Azatul: "I believe we should have things covered. All Sister Bahel did was steal information and supplies from them, as they would not sanction her research to recreate the Vex." Keelah@crystyl:"The Sisterhood may see that in much harsher light than either of us, but I promise you I will do my best to persuade them" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Azatul nods, "Thank you again, Captain."