Difference between revisions of "Suiting Up For Tests - RPLOG"
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=Log= | =Log= | ||
| − | <div></div><br> <br>The chopper is filled, but not with agents. Heavy clamps and hooks stand ready for transporting equally heavy equipment. The RSX agent nods to everyone else present. "We've found a site overridden by mutants where they've taken to using the suits for religious ceremonies. We think some of them may be salvageable, but we won't know how many until we get them back here and get to examining them."<br> <br>Having not done anything lately besides her job at the Red Court Nekura was rather bored to say the least. And while the whole thing with Ixchel was interesting it didn't exactly end in the fun she was hoping to lead into. Either way the Nightmare was listening to the explaination after arriving thouh she seems to have left Ebony home this time.<br> <br>Ebreus sits next to Debbie as he listent to the Agent explain the mission. As the agent gives an opertunity to speak Ebreus says "You mentioned that these suits are part of ceremonies. That they are sane enough to have ceremonies bodes well. We might be able to acquire them without too much fighting."<br> <br>Debbie sits with Ebreus, looking curiously around the room during the breifing, she adds on to Ebreus "And should we even be taking them? This feels a little like decerating a temple if these people are worshipping this thing. Why do we even want these suits?"<br> <br>"Well, if we could just put in an order for some space-capable protective gear, we chould opt for that, but that's not really an option." He moves to close the door to the chopper, but one last person is rushing aboard. "Just in time," he remarks to the shadow vixen. "Ideally, we go in, snatch the goods, get out. No one has to get hurt."<br> <br>Hurrying onto the roof, Cerl waves at the chopper. "Got room for one more? Great!" Climbing aboard, she quickly greets everyone else and finds an empty seat. "Sorry I missed the briefing, anyone got time to fill me in during the flight?"<br> <br>Alcuine heard the staticy broadcast about potential aerospace quality salvage, and begged leave of his waitressing at the Scarlet Rose to pursue potential parts for his offtime tinkering. Having been granted leave, he was escorted to the heli-pad by one of the Rose's husky bouncers. It was hard not to draw paralells of a camper being dropped off by a parent, the exitement evident on his muzzle and in the twinkle of his eyes - though somewhat timid as to the prospect of fighting. The smallish kitten, hesitantly follows, sticking close to the larger, more intimidating taur-ish felines.<br> <br>The agent looks to Ebreus. "I'm one hundred percent behind nonviolent acquisition. We're not here to bust heads or spill blood and that won't help us get into space besides. It's good to hear you lot sound like better than the random berserkers they saddle me way."<br> <br>Cerl nods. "I'm a big fan of non-violent when possible. It's why I learned stealth skills. Get in, get the goods, get out with as little muss and fuss as possible is always best."<br> <br>"Don't worry if all else fails I tend to be good at getting other mutants distracted while others acquire things from them," Nekura remarks when the agent says about the five getting the suits non-violently. "Unless of course you count rough sex anyways."<br> <br>Debbie nods, looking skeptically at the agent. "If y'all say so, but I havn't heard of people parting peacefully with their religious idols. Unless we plan to join the Cult of the Holy Suits" After her quip, she smiles and gives a small wave to Cerl, motioning for her to sit near Ebreus and herself.<br> <br>Ebreus nods to the Agent then looking to Cerl he says "To put it briefly? Salvage Mission: target salvage Space Suits." as he prepares for flight he looksto Debbie and says "RSX doesn't contract outside help for things that aren't of top importance, neither does Z or the Promies. I'm sure there is a good reason for all this effort."<br> <br>"Lucky me, I won't be the one hitting the turf." The man sits down beside the pilot as the chopper cuts through the sky in a clean slice towards its target. "We reached the stars once before, before the world fell apart... Before the whole damn world went dark. Hell, when's the last time we got a single peep from Asia or Europe? Is there even anyone else out there anymore?" He waved a hand. "Nevermind that. I'm getting distracted. Today, we focus on the suits."<br> <br>Cerl looks at the buckles where she's parked herself. "Any chance I could get a hand strapping in for the flight? Hard to buckle up with a tauric body."<br> <br>"I'm quite happy remaining on the planet but feel free to do all the star gazing you want in my place," Nekura snickers when the man starts going on about how humanity used to be in space before the whole downfall happened. It's not hard to guess she doesn't believe such happened.<br> <br>Ebreus considers the mission for a moment then, at Cerls request, helps her buckle in. Then adressing the Agent says "So, do we have any sort of map of the site layout or confirmation of target location?" he momentarily glares at Nekura before lightening his expression and calmly stating "He isn't lying. I saw video evidence of it before P-Day."<br> <br>Alcuine is a bit too distracted to listen effectively, trying to clutch a taur's leg and huddled in a corner of the heli's interior. The smallish feline, hung on as if for dear life. He did not anticipate there not being enough straps to go around for passenger security.<br> <br>A tap on the side of the agent's head brings up a floating image on the comm units of everyone else. "It's a simple compound. We think it was a tiny museum. Lucky us, they had some legit hardware and, by all reports, were both handling it well and are far enough way from major population centers to be nanite infection or corrosion, minus the mutants."<br> <br>Cerl stares at the image for a moment. "I'm assuming this museum is inside a bubble, since it's overrun with mutants, correct? Do we know how heavy the nanite levels are in the area now?"<br> <br>"No, and that's on our sides. The mutants are living outside a bubble, the hard way. I don't even begrudge them. Near I hear, they have a little community farm going and everything. It's almost picturesque, and I'd vote to just leave it the hell alone if not for the hardware we need." The pilot muttered something and the agent nodded. "We're coming as close as we can get without landing in a roar of noise and scaring them right off the bat. You'll have to hike up the rest."<br> <br>Watching the image on the display Nekura doesn't say anything snarky on the situation as she had about the space travel and instead listens. When talk of landing and walking is made though the herm just eyerolls and goes to stick her legs out the opening. When was the last time she actually got dropped off right where they needed to be anyways? Oh well with any luck the chopper's blades will diffuse her scent so horny mutants don't fall upon them as often happens. Darn heat periods.<br> <br>Debbie looks over the compound looking for a good way in. "But there likely will be a ton of them in there right? And a museum means relatively open spaces that it would be hard to hide. Do we just go in there and ask for it?" | + | <div></div><br> <br>The chopper is filled, but not with agents. Heavy clamps and hooks stand ready for transporting equally heavy equipment. The RSX agent nods to everyone else present. "We've found a site overridden by mutants where they've taken to using the suits for religious ceremonies. We think some of them may be salvageable, but we won't know how many until we get them back here and get to examining them."<br> <br>Having not done anything lately besides her job at the Red Court Nekura was rather bored to say the least. And while the whole thing with Ixchel was interesting it didn't exactly end in the fun she was hoping to lead into. Either way the Nightmare was listening to the explaination after arriving thouh she seems to have left Ebony home this time.<br> <br>Ebreus sits next to Debbie as he listent to the Agent explain the mission. As the agent gives an opertunity to speak Ebreus says "You mentioned that these suits are part of ceremonies. That they are sane enough to have ceremonies bodes well. We might be able to acquire them without too much fighting."<br> <br>Debbie sits with Ebreus, looking curiously around the room during the breifing, she adds on to Ebreus "And should we even be taking them? This feels a little like decerating a temple if these people are worshipping this thing. Why do we even want these suits?"<br> <br>"Well, if we could just put in an order for some space-capable protective gear, we chould opt for that, but that's not really an option." He moves to close the door to the chopper, but one last person is rushing aboard. "Just in time," he remarks to the shadow vixen. "Ideally, we go in, snatch the goods, get out. No one has to get hurt."<br> <br>Hurrying onto the roof, Cerl waves at the chopper. "Got room for one more? Great!" Climbing aboard, she quickly greets everyone else and finds an empty seat. "Sorry I missed the briefing, anyone got time to fill me in during the flight?"<br> <br>Alcuine heard the staticy broadcast about potential aerospace quality salvage, and begged leave of his waitressing at the Scarlet Rose to pursue potential parts for his offtime tinkering. Having been granted leave, he was escorted to the heli-pad by one of the Rose's husky bouncers. It was hard not to draw paralells of a camper being dropped off by a parent, the exitement evident on his muzzle and in the twinkle of his eyes - though somewhat timid as to the prospect of fighting. The smallish kitten, hesitantly follows, sticking close to the larger, more intimidating taur-ish felines.<br> <br>The agent looks to Ebreus. "I'm one hundred percent behind nonviolent acquisition. We're not here to bust heads or spill blood and that won't help us get into space besides. It's good to hear you lot sound like better than the random berserkers they saddle me way."<br> <br>Cerl nods. "I'm a big fan of non-violent when possible. It's why I learned stealth skills. Get in, get the goods, get out with as little muss and fuss as possible is always best."<br> <br>"Don't worry if all else fails I tend to be good at getting other mutants distracted while others acquire things from them," Nekura remarks when the agent says about the five getting the suits non-violently. "Unless of course you count rough sex anyways."<br> <br>Debbie nods, looking skeptically at the agent. "If y'all say so, but I havn't heard of people parting peacefully with their religious idols. Unless we plan to join the Cult of the Holy Suits" After her quip, she smiles and gives a small wave to Cerl, motioning for her to sit near Ebreus and herself.<br> <br>Ebreus nods to the Agent then looking to Cerl he says "To put it briefly? Salvage Mission: target salvage Space Suits." as he prepares for flight he looksto Debbie and says "RSX doesn't contract outside help for things that aren't of top importance, neither does Z or the Promies. I'm sure there is a good reason for all this effort."<br> <br>"Lucky me, I won't be the one hitting the turf." The man sits down beside the pilot as the chopper cuts through the sky in a clean slice towards its target. "We reached the stars once before, before the world fell apart... Before the whole damn world went dark. Hell, when's the last time we got a single peep from Asia or Europe? Is there even anyone else out there anymore?" He waved a hand. "Nevermind that. I'm getting distracted. Today, we focus on the suits."<br> <br>Cerl looks at the buckles where she's parked herself. "Any chance I could get a hand strapping in for the flight? Hard to buckle up with a tauric body."<br> <br>"I'm quite happy remaining on the planet but feel free to do all the star gazing you want in my place," Nekura snickers when the man starts going on about how humanity used to be in space before the whole downfall happened. It's not hard to guess she doesn't believe such happened.<br> <br>Ebreus considers the mission for a moment then, at Cerls request, helps her buckle in. Then adressing the Agent says "So, do we have any sort of map of the site layout or confirmation of target location?" he momentarily glares at Nekura before lightening his expression and calmly stating "He isn't lying. I saw video evidence of it before P-Day."<br> <br>Alcuine is a bit too distracted to listen effectively, trying to clutch a taur's leg and huddled in a corner of the heli's interior. The smallish feline, hung on as if for dear life. He did not anticipate there not being enough straps to go around for passenger security.<br> <br>A tap on the side of the agent's head brings up a floating image on the comm units of everyone else. "It's a simple compound. We think it was a tiny museum. Lucky us, they had some legit hardware and, by all reports, were both handling it well and are far enough way from major population centers to be nanite infection or corrosion, minus the mutants."<br> <br>Cerl stares at the image for a moment. "I'm assuming this museum is inside a bubble, since it's overrun with mutants, correct? Do we know how heavy the nanite levels are in the area now?"<br> <br>"No, and that's on our sides. The mutants are living outside a bubble, the hard way. I don't even begrudge them. Near I hear, they have a little community farm going and everything. It's almost picturesque, and I'd vote to just leave it the hell alone if not for the hardware we need." The pilot muttered something and the agent nodded. "We're coming as close as we can get without landing in a roar of noise and scaring them right off the bat. You'll have to hike up the rest."<br> <br>Watching the image on the display Nekura doesn't say anything snarky on the situation as she had about the space travel and instead listens. When talk of landing and walking is made though the herm just eyerolls and goes to stick her legs out the opening. When was the last time she actually got dropped off right where they needed to be anyways? Oh well with any luck the chopper's blades will diffuse her scent so horny mutants don't fall upon them as often happens. Darn heat periods.<br> <br>Debbie looks over the compound looking for a good way in. "But there likely will be a ton of them in there right? And a museum means relatively open spaces that it would be hard to hide. Do we just go in there and ask for it?"<br> <br>Ebreus grins at Cerl for a moment then begins studying the layout from the floating image. At the mention of being entirely out-of-bubble he then looks to Debbie and then back at Cerl again before saying "Even better reason to talk instead of fight, higher chances of serious injury." Noting Nekuras movements he calls forward to the Agent & Pilot "Have you considered an airdrop to the location? It'd get us closer or would all good targets for landing be Out of Bubble?"<br> <br>Alcuine looks around a bit panicked. Not having the longest stride of the bunch, he eventually resolves to ask one of the taurs when they set down for some assistance - embarrassed as he wast to have need to ask of such.<br> <br>Cerl frowns at the thought of losing half her abilities. "Outside the bubble. Will our comms continue to function well enough for out of sight communications in the event we split up? Well, at least my Fenrir gifted nose won't stop working out there." Checking that her scent blocker is fully charged, she turns it on and sits back.<br> <br>"We shouldn't have an issue there," assured the agent. "The heli will be the main channel. Switch the channel 04-Beta-6 and we should all be in range easily, provided you don't running past the mission site or anything." There was a soft bump as the helicopter touched down. "Good luck."<br> <br>Alcuine immediately, albeit shakily, disengages her paws from the taur, scrambling out of the flying death tr- er, vehicle before hes trampled underfoot by the larger morphs.<br> <br>Ebreus nods and lifts the Lynx onto his back and looking back at him says "Happy to help. Don't fall off." Before returning his attention to his friends, watching their reaction to learning that they will be going Out of Bubble. As the chopper lands he tunes his Comm Unit to the right frequency and crounches as he exits the chopper with Alcuine on his back.<br> <br>Nekura rolls her eyes a bit when Alcuine tries to get the attention of the taurs and says, "If you really want someone to carry you hop on my back I guess. It's not any different from giving Ebony piggy-back rides when she was a filly."<br> <br>Debbie stretches as she gets up from her seat on the helicopter. She watches the small cat rush out of then turns to Ebreus raising an eyebrow at him. She follows Ebreus's example and turns on her Comm, before casually walking to the door and hopping gracefully down onto the ground below. <br> <br>Cerl hits the release on her safety harness and climbs out of the chopper. She tunes her comm to the correct channel, then asks, "Which direction is this museum in, and how far are we to the edge of the bubble here?"<br> <br>"A bit to the left." Much more helpful than that comes a blip on the HUD of those with a comm unit set up for such, pointing the way directly. "We're picking up no signs of acticity."<br> <br>Alcuine blinks in surprise as hes lifted on to the very same taur he used as an anchor to the transport. The kitten blushes sheepishly at the thought of his actions on the aircraft directly translating to presumed assistance by the tuar. He was relieved however to be spared from directly asking for assistance, murmuring his appreciation, hoping noone else noticed his earlier discomfort aboard the flight, nor the current pink hue of his short muzzle.<br> <br>Ebreus begins to walk toward the objective then remembers something and looking back to the group says with a neurvos smile "So anyone been out of Bubble before or are we feeling our way through this?"<br> <br>Nekura does have a comm at least though that's pretty much the only thing she actually wears in terms of clothing. Seeing the blip she starts to wander towards it, following after the others without much trouble more than likely. Running is probably the second best thing she's good at right after being pounced and violated by random, horny mutants!<br> <br>Debbie nods back to Ebreus "I lived out of the bubble for years until recently. Its not so bad, just don't mess things up too badly, because there's no easy fixes." She smiles proudly before adding. "This is real survival!"<br> <br>The building comes into view in just a few minutes of hike. It's a two story museum with a faded large statue of a man in a space suit waving to the trucks that don't go past anymore. It's also quiet. Around to the side, rows of what looks to be farm rows can be seen, allowing a small crop of various vegetables to grow in the warm sun. They appear to have been watered recently.<br> <br>Cerl shrugs at the way the others are already moving off without working up a plan or worrying about scouting ahead, and hurries after the rest. She keeps a sharp eye out for movement or anything that might be useful as they head towards the museum, keeping to the night time shadows.<br> <br>As if to punctuate Debbie's words, a soft thumping noise is heard as Alcuine plops his slightly overly large combat helmet onto his head, eartips barely poking through the lower than properly fitted ear holes.<br> <br>Debbie breathes in the fresh country air as she walks through the grass, way more confidently than she should be for how little she's prepared. Wearing simple street clothes, she doesn't seem ready for any kind of physical engagement, except for a gravity cannon strapped to her back. <br> <br>Ebreus nods hearing Debbies words and slows down a little and considers the mission. He says "Well if we're not on easy mode we should treat this with all reasonable seriousness. Anyone have a plan?" He stops in place looking at his compatriots one to another after is request for a plan.<br> <br>Nekura squints at the kitty when they plop the hat on their head then just rolls her eyes again and peers down at the area of the garden. She isn't entirely sure what to make of the whole thing though she ends up following afte the others as they come to a stop and start discussing plans.<br> <br>Alcuine does find it difficult to balance not only himself but the firmness of his hold on the taur under him, but the height does at least provide a vantage point to scan the periphery the taur could not on his own. His feline eyes flitted from sharp shapes to softer outlines, looking not only for anything out of place or moving, but for locations or materials worth investigating.<br> <br>"As the prophecy foretold," came a gentle male voice as a pudgy-looking groundhog stepped free from the big sign with a smile. "Are you truly questors of the stars?" He is wearing little, his various bits dangling in plain sight, but not roused. His eyes are calm, his stance relaxed.<br> <br>Debbie without hesitation replies "Yes, yes we are." She gives a small tauric bow. "We are honored you have come to greet us."<br> <br>Staying in the shadows, trying to remain out of sight as the groundhog steps out, Cerl decides to use the distraction he provides to sneak on ahead and start scouting the building. Looking for signs of movement in windows, or on the grounds, she attempts to reach the building unseen.<br> <br>Ebreus quickly looks to Cerl doing his best to convey 'quick make a plan!' without speaking then turns to speak to the groundhog but when Debbie begins to speak he remains quiet and smiles nervously.<br> <br>"Stars watch over us," proclaims the male with a bow in reply to Debbie. He's not very tall, maybe just barely four feet tall. "The tests await you, eager questors. I do hope you pass, but that will be your test, not mine. We have done our part in keeping the shrine ready for it. Are you prepared?"<br> <br>Nekura wasn't really all that surprised that they're greeted with a rather spaced-out greeter given that cults that don't want to sacrifice people tend to always be full of weird, laid-back mutants. When mention of trials is made though she peers at him a bit more closely.<br> <br>Alcuine whips his head around at the sudden groundhog, immediately very aware of the limitations of his new lofty vantage - its harder to remember to look down. The helmet on his head of course also follows his reaction, sliding a bit too far laterally to half obscure his eyes and muzzle. This does not pose a respectable or competent first impression to the resident mutant - the small feline looking downright silly with his awkwardly aligned apparel.<br> <br>Ebreus takes two steps forward and says "We are likely prepared but if you would be so kind as to provide any supplimental information about the tests, not so much as to be cheating mind, but any tidbits so that we may be assured that we are prepared we would be greatful." he smiles as he speaks in his practiced negotiators voice.<br> <br>Debbie smiles broadly at the gopher, though her ears sink back in uncertainity as continues her conversation. "Of course, we have traveled far for the honor..." She gestures back to the others, taking a moment to mouth the words "Help me" as she turns around. She looks relieved as Ebreus takes over. <br> <br>"Oh, I'm so glad you were specific." He bobbed his head. "Asking for forbidden information, now that would be quite a sin. No, no. True questors are eager to be challenged!" He claps his furry hands with obvious pleasure. "Yes, you may be the right ones. This way! The first challenge is one of speed and subtelty."<br> <br>Nekura hasn't the faintest clue what is going on though that doesn't stop her from following after the others. Too bad their speed and subtle-whatever appears to have conveniently vanished when they would be rather useful.<br> <br>Alcuine quickly rights his equipment, hoping his appearance did not detract from Ebreus' demeanor in his nobly polite reply. The lynx did however eagerly anticipate an increasing likelihood he would be of actual value to this band of individuals, not so on any combat or stealth test, with declawed handpaws and what was constantly referred to as two left footpaws, but perhaps a test of intellect, dexterity, or science might play a part in this "quest".<br> <br>Cerl glances quickly back at the group as she scouts the outside of the building. Seeing them still talking to the groundhog, she turns her attention to the main entrance, seeking signs it's guarded, trapped, or alarmed. She double checks that the volume on her comm is muted, and dims the display to prevent it revealing her location whenever she glances at it.<br> <br>The pudgy greeter does not seem at all scared of the entrance, as he waddles right over to it, his claws tacking on the cement. "The first test is simple. You must pass through the next room without disturbing those who slumber here. It is late, unfortunate for you, so most are sleeping here, but not all. Slip through them like the wind between the stars and pass to the hallway, where the next challenge awaits." He opened the door, a key being slid in and twisted all in one smooth gesture. He waves inside, but says no more. The faint sounds of snoring can be heard within.<br> <br>Ebreus follows along hands behind his back as he carefully types to Cerl 'make plan watch us' holding his Comm in such a way where he belives that Alcuine should be able to see what he is doing, he continues to type 'show Debbie' before closing his comm, not sending the last part as he follows the greeter in.<br> <br>Nekura goes to huff a bit at the mention of being silent though she ends up following after the others all the same. Luckily it doesn't seem like the inside is covered in anything that might make her hooves be especially loud or this might end poorly rather quickly.<br> <br>Debbie listens carefully to the gopher's explination and nods confidently, without saying a word. She turns to look around at her ragtag compatriots. Lingering on the hoofed Nekura and the gigantic Ebreus, she raises an eyebrow and tilts her head at them, before whispering "Ebreus, can you shift into something a little smaller?"<br> <br>Cerl plants her face in her paw for a moment as the whole group is led right up to where she's examining the door, and steps out of the way as the groundhog opens it. Listening to the instructions, she nods and then slips through the door keeping a close eye on her footing for any tripwires or other traps that might wake everyone up, concentrating on moving through the room as quickly but as safely as possible.<br> <br>Slipping through, just as the wind between the stars, Cerl has no issue avoiding the snoozing bodies and not disturbing them, at least until he arrives at across the other side of the open hallway where they notice, a moment too late, that they're standing right in the field of a dim laser going across. The lights come on in the room, bright and ready. The mutants grumble and awaken. |
| + | |||
| + | "Morning already?"<br> <br>"Yes, it is morning!" cries the hedgehog as he bounces in. "The questors have arrived!" That gets some whispers of excitement. "They've achived a C+ on their first test. They may yet pass! The second is one of fortitude. Are you ready?"<br> <br>Well that could have gone worse though Nekura isn't entirely sure she wants to know who came up with the idea to have the trap wake everybody up by turning the lights on. When the mention of a quest involving fortitude is made though she perks up and says, "At least that's something I can help with!"<br> <br>* Ground hog. Sonic is not invited.<br> <br>Ebreus nods at Debbies suggestion and closes his eyes to concente on shifting to match Debbies form so as to still be able to hold Alcuine but be significantly smaller. After a moment he chringes in pain but makes no outward noises as he fails to shift. Then opening his eyes and looking back at Debbie he says, quietly "Sorry, can't. Hurts to even try outside the bubble." he then looks into the room as the lights turn on. Then seeing the hegdehog and hearing his statement he replies "Yes, as you can see we are a band of specialists. I am sure we all be impressed by out specialist in fortitudes capabilities." as he enters the building.<br> <br>The tester holds up one lone figure. "It's to be expected. No journey to the stars can be made alone, not and hold onto your sanity. You're a team, yes, wishing to reach the stairs. Work together, yes. Second test." He bounces over to a door and knocks thrice, pauses, twice, then four times. It opens into darkness. "A foul vapor will fill this room. Only the truly brave and stalwart will survive it, but worse still awaits you between the stars. If this scars you, leave and admit failure, or step inside."<br> <br>Debbie whinces as she watches Ebreus. "Thanks for trying," she whispers. "Though it looks like we just need one of us to pass each. Maybe we'll need you like that." She walks forward to join the others. As she hears the next test, she grimaces and slowly backs up away from the room, and says "Alright! Who wants to handle this one?" desparately looking around for a volunteer.<br> <br>Alcuine meeps when the taur below him tries to shift form, a static like shock puffing out every bit of fluff on the lynx's little body. Obviously this distacts him from wincing sympathetically at the taur's obvious discomfort.<br> <br>Cerl peers into the room and then looks back at the rest of the group. "If we were in the bubble, I wouldn't worry about it. I can hold my breath indefinitely in there. Outside the bubble though, not as sure. I'm willing to give it a try though." Looking at the groundhog, she asks, "If I fail this, does someone else get a chance to try?"<br> <br>The groundhog scratches at his cheek. "If they want, but you'll be dead, and that seems a sad way to finish your journey to the stars, so let's not focus on that possibility."<br> <br>Debbie's eyes widen at the groundhog's blunt way of putting it. She looks to Cerl shaking her head, her ears folded back and tail drooped. "Can we take a moment to prepare from this, gather our... divine artifacts from the vessel to support our journey?"<br> <br>He blinks with wide eyes. "As foretold..." he breathes out, echoed in awed whispered by the others in the area.<br> <br>"If you don't want to go first then I will," sighs Nekura when everybody starts getting in a huff about the vaporous room.<br> <br>Eyes wide, Cerl looks at the rest of the group then squares her shoulders and marches into the room after taking several deep breaths, holding the final one. She quickly looks around for the exit and tries to hurry her way to and through it.<br> <br>The hedgehog looked between the two agents as Cerl is pulled back at the last minute. "Take your time. Tests should be prepared for."<br> <br>* groundhog<br> <br>Ebreus walks through the room he smiles at Debbies negotiation attempt then his eyes widen a little in surprize as it works. He looks around at the response to the cultists and then flashes a thumps up to Debbie acompanied by a warm smile. His expression drops as Cerl aproaches and watches as Debbie prevents her from trying without preperation then smiles again at Debbie.<br> <br>Debbie runs up to Cerl and grabs her arm, pulling her back. "I'll run back to the ship, they should have some "artificats" to let you pass through unharmed." She cups a hand over her mouth and makes a motion intending to be stroking an airtank.<br> <br>Cerl looks at Debbie, and then slowly nods. Pulling out her comm unit, she calls the RSX agent still at the chopper. "Do we have any portable rebreathers on board?"<br> <br>"What?" comes over the comm link. "Sure, some portables, why? Should be good for fifteen minutes."<br> <br>Debbie without hesitation she runs back to the ship retreiving the rebreather from the agent. As an extra touch she quickly grabs some nail polish from her saddle bag and draws a crude and simplified picture of saturn on the back of it to act as a holy symbol. She breathes on it to dry it as she runs it back. <br> <br>Nekura meanwhile decides to see how the crowd reacts to her antics and ends up putting on a performance for them while they wait for the others to decide what to do. Not that she expects the Erotic Dance to even garner attention given how the other mutants are acting. Better than just standing around being bored though, right?<br> <br>The crowd parts for Debbie as she comes through, at least the ones that are not gaping at Nekura with lowered jaws and confused expressions. On the other paw, the groundhog is unfazed by it all. "Many are the talents required away from the embrace of the earth mother." His eyes fix on the curious thing Debbie has. "Is that the artifact? May it serve you well between the stars."<br> <br>Ebreus intercepts Debbie at the front door. Having when she left beconed Nek and Cerl to the front as well and once the whole party is there he speaks "Ok before one of us walks into another deathtrap lets plan a little and get a sense of eachothers skills, ok? I'll submit my speaking skills as my best."<br> <br>Cerl waves Ebreus off. "Without knowing what the trials are ahead of time there's little to no planning we can do. Our hosts don't seem to mind delays though, so hopefully we can just plan each one out as we come to it." She then settles down near the 2nd test entrance to wait for Debbie's return.<br> <br>Debbie nods presenting it as she bows "Yes, this is the mighty ReeBreethah of the Nah-Sah." She points at her glyph and looks for their response. "It will grant fortitude to the chosen holder." She nods to Ebreus and adds "We must now consolt to see who will be blessed by its power." She turns to join the group to see what they're discussing. <br> <br>Okay so it was more of a response than Nekura was really expecting out of the group though she's completely unsurprised it's all the young males of the group that are paying attention. Then again with the way the community acts she wouldn't be surprised if all the older males and females are mated or something similar which is why they're just staring at her confusedly. Still, she remains rather amused and continues to 'entertain' the boys. Worse comes to worse she ends up getting pounced by them after the trial is over.<br> <br>One of those young males approach Nekura curiously. "You're pretty," squeaks the prairie dog, his balls hanging low. "Wanna be my girlfriend?"<br> <br>Cerl gets up as Debbie returns. Glancing over at the show Nekura is putting on, she yawns and then takes the rebreather. Slipping in on and making sure it's firmly in place, Cerl once again takes a few deep breaths before holding the final one just as a precaution before stepping into the room.<br> <br>Grinning at the young males Nekura tells him, "I'll let all of you ride me and the one who lasts longest gets to be my boyfriend," as a paw reaches down to play with those twitching orbs the prarie dog possesses. She's not normally into the more rodent-y kinds but something about him is kind of adorable!<br> <br>Ebreus looks to Cerl as she prepares to attempt the fortitude trial. "I'm sure you'll succeed."<br> <br>The door seals in a small room. The hissing of incoming gas is loud and obvious, but with a rebreather ready, Cerl isn't scared! That's when he notices that it is also an irritant. His eyes turn red and puffy and his nose runs and it's not at all comfortable, but with fresh air available, it's not -hard-, and he remains calm until the door opens. | ||
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| + | The Hedgehog claps his hands eagerly. "You've one it!" The crowd erupts in cheers, well, except for the young male that's ready to surrender his virginity to the sexy star traveler.<br> <br>The hedgehog turns to the others. "There is but one test, one more! One of knowledge and wisdom. What use is any of the rest if you cannot skillfully operate the holy vessels?" He begins to lead the way to what looks like a classroom, uncomfortable desks included. "A test of the most literal sort. Are you ready?"<br> <br>Cerl stumbles back out of the room, ripping the rebreather off. "I need water, or something to watch my eyes with!" She rubs at her nose and tries not to rub at her eyes until she can wash them out. She does her best to stumble after the others despide having difficulty seeing or smelling anything.<br> <br>Grinning all the while Nekura goes to pull the male up against her front and ends up making out with him. Though he might be occupying his shaft in front the mare ends up leaving her other passage exposed for one of the other males to claim by lifting her tail over her own thigh. Luckily the only other item she wears is a tie around her tailbase to help in these situations. Her legs meanwhile go a little lax indicating the can pull her downwards to make things more easy.<br> <br>Alcuine averts his gaze, blushing furiously at the lewd behavior as his ears fold against his head to help with the...noises...<br> <br>Debbie can't help but cheer along with the crowd, but quickly turns to concern as she sees Cerl's condition as she leaves the room. She wraps an arm around Cerl and calls out. "Please! Any water for the space traveler?"<br> <br>Ebreus examines the testing room with Alcuine still on his back then reaching back grabs Alucine and sets him on the floor. He then digs his reconstructed thermos out of his pack and offers it to Cerl with a teasing grin. He then takes a look at the tiny desk and looking back at the groundhog says "Are there any larger desks?"<br> <br>The groundhog tilts his head a little. "You can work at the counter instead if you like?" He points to the large counters that run along the edges of the room. "Tell me when you're ready. It's timed!"<br> <br>Cerl uses the thermos to rinse her face off, blinking rapidly until she can see again. She steps over to one of the counters and settles down to wait for the beginning of the test, something familiar from her days studying in Clairmont.<br> <br>Debbie relaxes now that Cerl is alright and follows her over the counter to wait for the test, nervously looking around the classroom as she waits. <br> <br>Ebreus walks over to the counter with his copy of the test and sits down before looking over to the groundhog and says "I am ready to begin." he then looks down at his test as the timer starts. Examining each question in sequence marking them D or E denoting difficult or easy and then begins on those marked easy first then moving on to those marked difficult. This common, old-world, tactic leaving him enough time to check his answers and ensure that even if he is unsure of the correct answer there is at least an answer to every question.<br> <br>Nekura is just about to get funtimes when the males are drug away by their parents. When did they even start paying attention to what was going on? The Nightmare huffs and wanders after where she saw the others go but rather then entering just peers inside the door. Ew, school! She didn't enjoy dealing with that when she first came about.<br> <br>Debbie nervously looks around the room trying to see if any answers are written on the board or anything else that would help her. She mostly brute forces her way through the test, but knows next to nothing about this topic.<br> <br>Finally! Something that Alcuine knew he could accomplish for the benefit of the group. Not only was this challenge a true "test", but there was even a desk his size in the room! After settling into his seat, the lynx eagerly awaits the distribution of the testing material, kicking his legs with anxious anticipation.<br> <br>And a bell goes off, ding! "Pencils down!" He begins collecting the papers, making little noises as he does so. "Interesting... It seems some of you are better trained than others. A B+ for the lot of you. I must recommend you tutor those lacking in knowledge to increase the odds of your success." | ||
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| + | The sound of squeaky wheels are heard as a coyote woman comes in, tail wagging lightly. She is pushing a dollie with a suit on it, preserved with religious care. "Ah, here it is," gushes the groundhog. "Please, travelers, promise you'll take care of it."<br> <br>Debbie slumps down and raises her shoulders in embarresment, as they look over her answers. She looks up meekly at the other test takers and mouths "Sorry." Her ears perk up at the squeeky wheel and looks in amazement as the suit is just presented to them. She rolls her shoulders and stands back up straight to continue her representive role that she found herself in. "Thank you, we are honored to be the chosen ones. We will handle it with great care and honor." She bows deeply before them. <br> <br>Ebreus aproaches the suit cautiously and says "Thank you. We will take good care of it." he rests a hand on the dollie, ready to cart the suit out. He looks over to his companions and continues "Now we must be off. Journying by nature not happening when those on it do not journy." he then slowly carts the suit out and offers Alcuine the option to be carried out the same way he was carried in.<br> <br>Cerl follows along with the others, her skin still twitching in places from the irritant she had been exposed to. Pulling out her comm, she texts a quick "We have the suit, returning soon" to the RSX agent.<br> <br>As the crew departs, Nekura is chased by an angry prairie dog mother, shouting no small amount of obscenities. Huh...[[Category:RPLogs]] | ||
Latest revision as of 07:47, 15 February 2017
Participants
Date
15/2/2017
Log
The chopper is filled, but not with agents. Heavy clamps and hooks stand ready for transporting equally heavy equipment. The RSX agent nods to everyone else present. "We've found a site overridden by mutants where they've taken to using the suits for religious ceremonies. We think some of them may be salvageable, but we won't know how many until we get them back here and get to examining them."
Having not done anything lately besides her job at the Red Court Nekura was rather bored to say the least. And while the whole thing with Ixchel was interesting it didn't exactly end in the fun she was hoping to lead into. Either way the Nightmare was listening to the explaination after arriving thouh she seems to have left Ebony home this time.
Ebreus sits next to Debbie as he listent to the Agent explain the mission. As the agent gives an opertunity to speak Ebreus says "You mentioned that these suits are part of ceremonies. That they are sane enough to have ceremonies bodes well. We might be able to acquire them without too much fighting."
Debbie sits with Ebreus, looking curiously around the room during the breifing, she adds on to Ebreus "And should we even be taking them? This feels a little like decerating a temple if these people are worshipping this thing. Why do we even want these suits?"
"Well, if we could just put in an order for some space-capable protective gear, we chould opt for that, but that's not really an option." He moves to close the door to the chopper, but one last person is rushing aboard. "Just in time," he remarks to the shadow vixen. "Ideally, we go in, snatch the goods, get out. No one has to get hurt."
Hurrying onto the roof, Cerl waves at the chopper. "Got room for one more? Great!" Climbing aboard, she quickly greets everyone else and finds an empty seat. "Sorry I missed the briefing, anyone got time to fill me in during the flight?"
Alcuine heard the staticy broadcast about potential aerospace quality salvage, and begged leave of his waitressing at the Scarlet Rose to pursue potential parts for his offtime tinkering. Having been granted leave, he was escorted to the heli-pad by one of the Rose's husky bouncers. It was hard not to draw paralells of a camper being dropped off by a parent, the exitement evident on his muzzle and in the twinkle of his eyes - though somewhat timid as to the prospect of fighting. The smallish kitten, hesitantly follows, sticking close to the larger, more intimidating taur-ish felines.
The agent looks to Ebreus. "I'm one hundred percent behind nonviolent acquisition. We're not here to bust heads or spill blood and that won't help us get into space besides. It's good to hear you lot sound like better than the random berserkers they saddle me way."
Cerl nods. "I'm a big fan of non-violent when possible. It's why I learned stealth skills. Get in, get the goods, get out with as little muss and fuss as possible is always best."
"Don't worry if all else fails I tend to be good at getting other mutants distracted while others acquire things from them," Nekura remarks when the agent says about the five getting the suits non-violently. "Unless of course you count rough sex anyways."
Debbie nods, looking skeptically at the agent. "If y'all say so, but I havn't heard of people parting peacefully with their religious idols. Unless we plan to join the Cult of the Holy Suits" After her quip, she smiles and gives a small wave to Cerl, motioning for her to sit near Ebreus and herself.
Ebreus nods to the Agent then looking to Cerl he says "To put it briefly? Salvage Mission: target salvage Space Suits." as he prepares for flight he looksto Debbie and says "RSX doesn't contract outside help for things that aren't of top importance, neither does Z or the Promies. I'm sure there is a good reason for all this effort."
"Lucky me, I won't be the one hitting the turf." The man sits down beside the pilot as the chopper cuts through the sky in a clean slice towards its target. "We reached the stars once before, before the world fell apart... Before the whole damn world went dark. Hell, when's the last time we got a single peep from Asia or Europe? Is there even anyone else out there anymore?" He waved a hand. "Nevermind that. I'm getting distracted. Today, we focus on the suits."
Cerl looks at the buckles where she's parked herself. "Any chance I could get a hand strapping in for the flight? Hard to buckle up with a tauric body."
"I'm quite happy remaining on the planet but feel free to do all the star gazing you want in my place," Nekura snickers when the man starts going on about how humanity used to be in space before the whole downfall happened. It's not hard to guess she doesn't believe such happened.
Ebreus considers the mission for a moment then, at Cerls request, helps her buckle in. Then adressing the Agent says "So, do we have any sort of map of the site layout or confirmation of target location?" he momentarily glares at Nekura before lightening his expression and calmly stating "He isn't lying. I saw video evidence of it before P-Day."
Alcuine is a bit too distracted to listen effectively, trying to clutch a taur's leg and huddled in a corner of the heli's interior. The smallish feline, hung on as if for dear life. He did not anticipate there not being enough straps to go around for passenger security.
A tap on the side of the agent's head brings up a floating image on the comm units of everyone else. "It's a simple compound. We think it was a tiny museum. Lucky us, they had some legit hardware and, by all reports, were both handling it well and are far enough way from major population centers to be nanite infection or corrosion, minus the mutants."
Cerl stares at the image for a moment. "I'm assuming this museum is inside a bubble, since it's overrun with mutants, correct? Do we know how heavy the nanite levels are in the area now?"
"No, and that's on our sides. The mutants are living outside a bubble, the hard way. I don't even begrudge them. Near I hear, they have a little community farm going and everything. It's almost picturesque, and I'd vote to just leave it the hell alone if not for the hardware we need." The pilot muttered something and the agent nodded. "We're coming as close as we can get without landing in a roar of noise and scaring them right off the bat. You'll have to hike up the rest."
Watching the image on the display Nekura doesn't say anything snarky on the situation as she had about the space travel and instead listens. When talk of landing and walking is made though the herm just eyerolls and goes to stick her legs out the opening. When was the last time she actually got dropped off right where they needed to be anyways? Oh well with any luck the chopper's blades will diffuse her scent so horny mutants don't fall upon them as often happens. Darn heat periods.
Debbie looks over the compound looking for a good way in. "But there likely will be a ton of them in there right? And a museum means relatively open spaces that it would be hard to hide. Do we just go in there and ask for it?"
Ebreus grins at Cerl for a moment then begins studying the layout from the floating image. At the mention of being entirely out-of-bubble he then looks to Debbie and then back at Cerl again before saying "Even better reason to talk instead of fight, higher chances of serious injury." Noting Nekuras movements he calls forward to the Agent & Pilot "Have you considered an airdrop to the location? It'd get us closer or would all good targets for landing be Out of Bubble?"
Alcuine looks around a bit panicked. Not having the longest stride of the bunch, he eventually resolves to ask one of the taurs when they set down for some assistance - embarrassed as he wast to have need to ask of such.
Cerl frowns at the thought of losing half her abilities. "Outside the bubble. Will our comms continue to function well enough for out of sight communications in the event we split up? Well, at least my Fenrir gifted nose won't stop working out there." Checking that her scent blocker is fully charged, she turns it on and sits back.
"We shouldn't have an issue there," assured the agent. "The heli will be the main channel. Switch the channel 04-Beta-6 and we should all be in range easily, provided you don't running past the mission site or anything." There was a soft bump as the helicopter touched down. "Good luck."
Alcuine immediately, albeit shakily, disengages her paws from the taur, scrambling out of the flying death tr- er, vehicle before hes trampled underfoot by the larger morphs.
Ebreus nods and lifts the Lynx onto his back and looking back at him says "Happy to help. Don't fall off." Before returning his attention to his friends, watching their reaction to learning that they will be going Out of Bubble. As the chopper lands he tunes his Comm Unit to the right frequency and crounches as he exits the chopper with Alcuine on his back.
Nekura rolls her eyes a bit when Alcuine tries to get the attention of the taurs and says, "If you really want someone to carry you hop on my back I guess. It's not any different from giving Ebony piggy-back rides when she was a filly."
Debbie stretches as she gets up from her seat on the helicopter. She watches the small cat rush out of then turns to Ebreus raising an eyebrow at him. She follows Ebreus's example and turns on her Comm, before casually walking to the door and hopping gracefully down onto the ground below.
Cerl hits the release on her safety harness and climbs out of the chopper. She tunes her comm to the correct channel, then asks, "Which direction is this museum in, and how far are we to the edge of the bubble here?"
"A bit to the left." Much more helpful than that comes a blip on the HUD of those with a comm unit set up for such, pointing the way directly. "We're picking up no signs of acticity."
Alcuine blinks in surprise as hes lifted on to the very same taur he used as an anchor to the transport. The kitten blushes sheepishly at the thought of his actions on the aircraft directly translating to presumed assistance by the tuar. He was relieved however to be spared from directly asking for assistance, murmuring his appreciation, hoping noone else noticed his earlier discomfort aboard the flight, nor the current pink hue of his short muzzle.
Ebreus begins to walk toward the objective then remembers something and looking back to the group says with a neurvos smile "So anyone been out of Bubble before or are we feeling our way through this?"
Nekura does have a comm at least though that's pretty much the only thing she actually wears in terms of clothing. Seeing the blip she starts to wander towards it, following after the others without much trouble more than likely. Running is probably the second best thing she's good at right after being pounced and violated by random, horny mutants!
Debbie nods back to Ebreus "I lived out of the bubble for years until recently. Its not so bad, just don't mess things up too badly, because there's no easy fixes." She smiles proudly before adding. "This is real survival!"
The building comes into view in just a few minutes of hike. It's a two story museum with a faded large statue of a man in a space suit waving to the trucks that don't go past anymore. It's also quiet. Around to the side, rows of what looks to be farm rows can be seen, allowing a small crop of various vegetables to grow in the warm sun. They appear to have been watered recently.
Cerl shrugs at the way the others are already moving off without working up a plan or worrying about scouting ahead, and hurries after the rest. She keeps a sharp eye out for movement or anything that might be useful as they head towards the museum, keeping to the night time shadows.
As if to punctuate Debbie's words, a soft thumping noise is heard as Alcuine plops his slightly overly large combat helmet onto his head, eartips barely poking through the lower than properly fitted ear holes.
Debbie breathes in the fresh country air as she walks through the grass, way more confidently than she should be for how little she's prepared. Wearing simple street clothes, she doesn't seem ready for any kind of physical engagement, except for a gravity cannon strapped to her back.
Ebreus nods hearing Debbies words and slows down a little and considers the mission. He says "Well if we're not on easy mode we should treat this with all reasonable seriousness. Anyone have a plan?" He stops in place looking at his compatriots one to another after is request for a plan.
Nekura squints at the kitty when they plop the hat on their head then just rolls her eyes again and peers down at the area of the garden. She isn't entirely sure what to make of the whole thing though she ends up following afte the others as they come to a stop and start discussing plans.
Alcuine does find it difficult to balance not only himself but the firmness of his hold on the taur under him, but the height does at least provide a vantage point to scan the periphery the taur could not on his own. His feline eyes flitted from sharp shapes to softer outlines, looking not only for anything out of place or moving, but for locations or materials worth investigating.
"As the prophecy foretold," came a gentle male voice as a pudgy-looking groundhog stepped free from the big sign with a smile. "Are you truly questors of the stars?" He is wearing little, his various bits dangling in plain sight, but not roused. His eyes are calm, his stance relaxed.
Debbie without hesitation replies "Yes, yes we are." She gives a small tauric bow. "We are honored you have come to greet us."
Staying in the shadows, trying to remain out of sight as the groundhog steps out, Cerl decides to use the distraction he provides to sneak on ahead and start scouting the building. Looking for signs of movement in windows, or on the grounds, she attempts to reach the building unseen.
Ebreus quickly looks to Cerl doing his best to convey 'quick make a plan!' without speaking then turns to speak to the groundhog but when Debbie begins to speak he remains quiet and smiles nervously.
"Stars watch over us," proclaims the male with a bow in reply to Debbie. He's not very tall, maybe just barely four feet tall. "The tests await you, eager questors. I do hope you pass, but that will be your test, not mine. We have done our part in keeping the shrine ready for it. Are you prepared?"
Nekura wasn't really all that surprised that they're greeted with a rather spaced-out greeter given that cults that don't want to sacrifice people tend to always be full of weird, laid-back mutants. When mention of trials is made though she peers at him a bit more closely.
Alcuine whips his head around at the sudden groundhog, immediately very aware of the limitations of his new lofty vantage - its harder to remember to look down. The helmet on his head of course also follows his reaction, sliding a bit too far laterally to half obscure his eyes and muzzle. This does not pose a respectable or competent first impression to the resident mutant - the small feline looking downright silly with his awkwardly aligned apparel.
Ebreus takes two steps forward and says "We are likely prepared but if you would be so kind as to provide any supplimental information about the tests, not so much as to be cheating mind, but any tidbits so that we may be assured that we are prepared we would be greatful." he smiles as he speaks in his practiced negotiators voice.
Debbie smiles broadly at the gopher, though her ears sink back in uncertainity as continues her conversation. "Of course, we have traveled far for the honor..." She gestures back to the others, taking a moment to mouth the words "Help me" as she turns around. She looks relieved as Ebreus takes over.
"Oh, I'm so glad you were specific." He bobbed his head. "Asking for forbidden information, now that would be quite a sin. No, no. True questors are eager to be challenged!" He claps his furry hands with obvious pleasure. "Yes, you may be the right ones. This way! The first challenge is one of speed and subtelty."
Nekura hasn't the faintest clue what is going on though that doesn't stop her from following after the others. Too bad their speed and subtle-whatever appears to have conveniently vanished when they would be rather useful.
Alcuine quickly rights his equipment, hoping his appearance did not detract from Ebreus' demeanor in his nobly polite reply. The lynx did however eagerly anticipate an increasing likelihood he would be of actual value to this band of individuals, not so on any combat or stealth test, with declawed handpaws and what was constantly referred to as two left footpaws, but perhaps a test of intellect, dexterity, or science might play a part in this "quest".
Cerl glances quickly back at the group as she scouts the outside of the building. Seeing them still talking to the groundhog, she turns her attention to the main entrance, seeking signs it's guarded, trapped, or alarmed. She double checks that the volume on her comm is muted, and dims the display to prevent it revealing her location whenever she glances at it.
The pudgy greeter does not seem at all scared of the entrance, as he waddles right over to it, his claws tacking on the cement. "The first test is simple. You must pass through the next room without disturbing those who slumber here. It is late, unfortunate for you, so most are sleeping here, but not all. Slip through them like the wind between the stars and pass to the hallway, where the next challenge awaits." He opened the door, a key being slid in and twisted all in one smooth gesture. He waves inside, but says no more. The faint sounds of snoring can be heard within.
Ebreus follows along hands behind his back as he carefully types to Cerl 'make plan watch us' holding his Comm in such a way where he belives that Alcuine should be able to see what he is doing, he continues to type 'show Debbie' before closing his comm, not sending the last part as he follows the greeter in.
Nekura goes to huff a bit at the mention of being silent though she ends up following after the others all the same. Luckily it doesn't seem like the inside is covered in anything that might make her hooves be especially loud or this might end poorly rather quickly.
Debbie listens carefully to the gopher's explination and nods confidently, without saying a word. She turns to look around at her ragtag compatriots. Lingering on the hoofed Nekura and the gigantic Ebreus, she raises an eyebrow and tilts her head at them, before whispering "Ebreus, can you shift into something a little smaller?"
Cerl plants her face in her paw for a moment as the whole group is led right up to where she's examining the door, and steps out of the way as the groundhog opens it. Listening to the instructions, she nods and then slips through the door keeping a close eye on her footing for any tripwires or other traps that might wake everyone up, concentrating on moving through the room as quickly but as safely as possible.
Slipping through, just as the wind between the stars, Cerl has no issue avoiding the snoozing bodies and not disturbing them, at least until he arrives at across the other side of the open hallway where they notice, a moment too late, that they're standing right in the field of a dim laser going across. The lights come on in the room, bright and ready. The mutants grumble and awaken.
"Morning already?"
"Yes, it is morning!" cries the hedgehog as he bounces in. "The questors have arrived!" That gets some whispers of excitement. "They've achived a C+ on their first test. They may yet pass! The second is one of fortitude. Are you ready?"
Well that could have gone worse though Nekura isn't entirely sure she wants to know who came up with the idea to have the trap wake everybody up by turning the lights on. When the mention of a quest involving fortitude is made though she perks up and says, "At least that's something I can help with!"
* Ground hog. Sonic is not invited.
Ebreus nods at Debbies suggestion and closes his eyes to concente on shifting to match Debbies form so as to still be able to hold Alcuine but be significantly smaller. After a moment he chringes in pain but makes no outward noises as he fails to shift. Then opening his eyes and looking back at Debbie he says, quietly "Sorry, can't. Hurts to even try outside the bubble." he then looks into the room as the lights turn on. Then seeing the hegdehog and hearing his statement he replies "Yes, as you can see we are a band of specialists. I am sure we all be impressed by out specialist in fortitudes capabilities." as he enters the building.
The tester holds up one lone figure. "It's to be expected. No journey to the stars can be made alone, not and hold onto your sanity. You're a team, yes, wishing to reach the stairs. Work together, yes. Second test." He bounces over to a door and knocks thrice, pauses, twice, then four times. It opens into darkness. "A foul vapor will fill this room. Only the truly brave and stalwart will survive it, but worse still awaits you between the stars. If this scars you, leave and admit failure, or step inside."
Debbie whinces as she watches Ebreus. "Thanks for trying," she whispers. "Though it looks like we just need one of us to pass each. Maybe we'll need you like that." She walks forward to join the others. As she hears the next test, she grimaces and slowly backs up away from the room, and says "Alright! Who wants to handle this one?" desparately looking around for a volunteer.
Alcuine meeps when the taur below him tries to shift form, a static like shock puffing out every bit of fluff on the lynx's little body. Obviously this distacts him from wincing sympathetically at the taur's obvious discomfort.
Cerl peers into the room and then looks back at the rest of the group. "If we were in the bubble, I wouldn't worry about it. I can hold my breath indefinitely in there. Outside the bubble though, not as sure. I'm willing to give it a try though." Looking at the groundhog, she asks, "If I fail this, does someone else get a chance to try?"
The groundhog scratches at his cheek. "If they want, but you'll be dead, and that seems a sad way to finish your journey to the stars, so let's not focus on that possibility."
Debbie's eyes widen at the groundhog's blunt way of putting it. She looks to Cerl shaking her head, her ears folded back and tail drooped. "Can we take a moment to prepare from this, gather our... divine artifacts from the vessel to support our journey?"
He blinks with wide eyes. "As foretold..." he breathes out, echoed in awed whispered by the others in the area.
"If you don't want to go first then I will," sighs Nekura when everybody starts getting in a huff about the vaporous room.
Eyes wide, Cerl looks at the rest of the group then squares her shoulders and marches into the room after taking several deep breaths, holding the final one. She quickly looks around for the exit and tries to hurry her way to and through it.
The hedgehog looked between the two agents as Cerl is pulled back at the last minute. "Take your time. Tests should be prepared for."
* groundhog
Ebreus walks through the room he smiles at Debbies negotiation attempt then his eyes widen a little in surprize as it works. He looks around at the response to the cultists and then flashes a thumps up to Debbie acompanied by a warm smile. His expression drops as Cerl aproaches and watches as Debbie prevents her from trying without preperation then smiles again at Debbie.
Debbie runs up to Cerl and grabs her arm, pulling her back. "I'll run back to the ship, they should have some "artificats" to let you pass through unharmed." She cups a hand over her mouth and makes a motion intending to be stroking an airtank.
Cerl looks at Debbie, and then slowly nods. Pulling out her comm unit, she calls the RSX agent still at the chopper. "Do we have any portable rebreathers on board?"
"What?" comes over the comm link. "Sure, some portables, why? Should be good for fifteen minutes."
Debbie without hesitation she runs back to the ship retreiving the rebreather from the agent. As an extra touch she quickly grabs some nail polish from her saddle bag and draws a crude and simplified picture of saturn on the back of it to act as a holy symbol. She breathes on it to dry it as she runs it back.
Nekura meanwhile decides to see how the crowd reacts to her antics and ends up putting on a performance for them while they wait for the others to decide what to do. Not that she expects the Erotic Dance to even garner attention given how the other mutants are acting. Better than just standing around being bored though, right?
The crowd parts for Debbie as she comes through, at least the ones that are not gaping at Nekura with lowered jaws and confused expressions. On the other paw, the groundhog is unfazed by it all. "Many are the talents required away from the embrace of the earth mother." His eyes fix on the curious thing Debbie has. "Is that the artifact? May it serve you well between the stars."
Ebreus intercepts Debbie at the front door. Having when she left beconed Nek and Cerl to the front as well and once the whole party is there he speaks "Ok before one of us walks into another deathtrap lets plan a little and get a sense of eachothers skills, ok? I'll submit my speaking skills as my best."
Cerl waves Ebreus off. "Without knowing what the trials are ahead of time there's little to no planning we can do. Our hosts don't seem to mind delays though, so hopefully we can just plan each one out as we come to it." She then settles down near the 2nd test entrance to wait for Debbie's return.
Debbie nods presenting it as she bows "Yes, this is the mighty ReeBreethah of the Nah-Sah." She points at her glyph and looks for their response. "It will grant fortitude to the chosen holder." She nods to Ebreus and adds "We must now consolt to see who will be blessed by its power." She turns to join the group to see what they're discussing.
Okay so it was more of a response than Nekura was really expecting out of the group though she's completely unsurprised it's all the young males of the group that are paying attention. Then again with the way the community acts she wouldn't be surprised if all the older males and females are mated or something similar which is why they're just staring at her confusedly. Still, she remains rather amused and continues to 'entertain' the boys. Worse comes to worse she ends up getting pounced by them after the trial is over.
One of those young males approach Nekura curiously. "You're pretty," squeaks the prairie dog, his balls hanging low. "Wanna be my girlfriend?"
Cerl gets up as Debbie returns. Glancing over at the show Nekura is putting on, she yawns and then takes the rebreather. Slipping in on and making sure it's firmly in place, Cerl once again takes a few deep breaths before holding the final one just as a precaution before stepping into the room.
Grinning at the young males Nekura tells him, "I'll let all of you ride me and the one who lasts longest gets to be my boyfriend," as a paw reaches down to play with those twitching orbs the prarie dog possesses. She's not normally into the more rodent-y kinds but something about him is kind of adorable!
Ebreus looks to Cerl as she prepares to attempt the fortitude trial. "I'm sure you'll succeed."
The door seals in a small room. The hissing of incoming gas is loud and obvious, but with a rebreather ready, Cerl isn't scared! That's when he notices that it is also an irritant. His eyes turn red and puffy and his nose runs and it's not at all comfortable, but with fresh air available, it's not -hard-, and he remains calm until the door opens.
The Hedgehog claps his hands eagerly. "You've one it!" The crowd erupts in cheers, well, except for the young male that's ready to surrender his virginity to the sexy star traveler.
The hedgehog turns to the others. "There is but one test, one more! One of knowledge and wisdom. What use is any of the rest if you cannot skillfully operate the holy vessels?" He begins to lead the way to what looks like a classroom, uncomfortable desks included. "A test of the most literal sort. Are you ready?"
Cerl stumbles back out of the room, ripping the rebreather off. "I need water, or something to watch my eyes with!" She rubs at her nose and tries not to rub at her eyes until she can wash them out. She does her best to stumble after the others despide having difficulty seeing or smelling anything.
Grinning all the while Nekura goes to pull the male up against her front and ends up making out with him. Though he might be occupying his shaft in front the mare ends up leaving her other passage exposed for one of the other males to claim by lifting her tail over her own thigh. Luckily the only other item she wears is a tie around her tailbase to help in these situations. Her legs meanwhile go a little lax indicating the can pull her downwards to make things more easy.
Alcuine averts his gaze, blushing furiously at the lewd behavior as his ears fold against his head to help with the...noises...
Debbie can't help but cheer along with the crowd, but quickly turns to concern as she sees Cerl's condition as she leaves the room. She wraps an arm around Cerl and calls out. "Please! Any water for the space traveler?"
Ebreus examines the testing room with Alcuine still on his back then reaching back grabs Alucine and sets him on the floor. He then digs his reconstructed thermos out of his pack and offers it to Cerl with a teasing grin. He then takes a look at the tiny desk and looking back at the groundhog says "Are there any larger desks?"
The groundhog tilts his head a little. "You can work at the counter instead if you like?" He points to the large counters that run along the edges of the room. "Tell me when you're ready. It's timed!"
Cerl uses the thermos to rinse her face off, blinking rapidly until she can see again. She steps over to one of the counters and settles down to wait for the beginning of the test, something familiar from her days studying in Clairmont.
Debbie relaxes now that Cerl is alright and follows her over the counter to wait for the test, nervously looking around the classroom as she waits.
Ebreus walks over to the counter with his copy of the test and sits down before looking over to the groundhog and says "I am ready to begin." he then looks down at his test as the timer starts. Examining each question in sequence marking them D or E denoting difficult or easy and then begins on those marked easy first then moving on to those marked difficult. This common, old-world, tactic leaving him enough time to check his answers and ensure that even if he is unsure of the correct answer there is at least an answer to every question.
Nekura is just about to get funtimes when the males are drug away by their parents. When did they even start paying attention to what was going on? The Nightmare huffs and wanders after where she saw the others go but rather then entering just peers inside the door. Ew, school! She didn't enjoy dealing with that when she first came about.
Debbie nervously looks around the room trying to see if any answers are written on the board or anything else that would help her. She mostly brute forces her way through the test, but knows next to nothing about this topic.
Finally! Something that Alcuine knew he could accomplish for the benefit of the group. Not only was this challenge a true "test", but there was even a desk his size in the room! After settling into his seat, the lynx eagerly awaits the distribution of the testing material, kicking his legs with anxious anticipation.
And a bell goes off, ding! "Pencils down!" He begins collecting the papers, making little noises as he does so. "Interesting... It seems some of you are better trained than others. A B+ for the lot of you. I must recommend you tutor those lacking in knowledge to increase the odds of your success."
The sound of squeaky wheels are heard as a coyote woman comes in, tail wagging lightly. She is pushing a dollie with a suit on it, preserved with religious care. "Ah, here it is," gushes the groundhog. "Please, travelers, promise you'll take care of it."
Debbie slumps down and raises her shoulders in embarresment, as they look over her answers. She looks up meekly at the other test takers and mouths "Sorry." Her ears perk up at the squeeky wheel and looks in amazement as the suit is just presented to them. She rolls her shoulders and stands back up straight to continue her representive role that she found herself in. "Thank you, we are honored to be the chosen ones. We will handle it with great care and honor." She bows deeply before them.
Ebreus aproaches the suit cautiously and says "Thank you. We will take good care of it." he rests a hand on the dollie, ready to cart the suit out. He looks over to his companions and continues "Now we must be off. Journying by nature not happening when those on it do not journy." he then slowly carts the suit out and offers Alcuine the option to be carried out the same way he was carried in.
Cerl follows along with the others, her skin still twitching in places from the irritant she had been exposed to. Pulling out her comm, she texts a quick "We have the suit, returning soon" to the RSX agent.
As the crew departs, Nekura is chased by an angry prairie dog mother, shouting no small amount of obscenities. Huh...
