Faction Grand Theft Astro: Pau City Blockade Runner (The Family)

[Ivory Stroud]

(This thread is an entry into the Procopia Bank 2-week, 2+ Pages contest; submission scheduled for Jan 26'th)

Location: Utapau, Utapau System
Mission: The Family has been contracted by an unknown buyer to "acquire", by any means necessary, an extremely rare piece of history: A Pau City Blockade Runner. Only a handful still exist in the Galaxy, with most of them owned by private collectors & museums. One, however, has been located on the planet from-which the ship got it's name. The ship is rumored to be in the possession of an extremely wealthy & mysterious business-man who owns a villa at the bottom of a sinkhole somewhere in the Utapaun desert. Members of The Family, including The Donna herself, have traveled to Utapau and begun their operation.

Objectives: 1. Identify the location & disposition of the owner, and his villa.
2. Obtain access by any means necessary.
3. Steal the Pau City Blockade Runner; preferably without undue attention
4. Deliver the ship to the planet Denon without being caught
5. Profit

For the first time in many months, The Family as a group had traveled outside of their own home-space, far from Coruscant, into the Outer Rim. Much of their business was conducted throughout the Inner Rim & worlds nearby to the Ecumenopolis, but they'd received a very special job from a contact, and The Donna had accepted. Their arrival on Utapau had been accomplished in secret - each of them arriving individually then coming together at a hotel in Pau City, Utapau's Capital. Deep beneath the surface of The Planet, somewhere on the Wealth Level, members of the criminal syndicate were meeting in secret to finally discuss the reason for their visit.

Their cover story was that each was a member of a Corporate Survey Team, meeting to discuss the financial & sociological impact of the sinkholes which plagued the planet. The Family had paid extra to ensure their rooms would be left untouched for the duration of their stay. Upon their arrival, Security teams had swept the floor where each of their rooms were located and found nothing - no audio/visual recording devices, no hidden recorders, and no staff with questionable backgrounds. Provided they did nothing to attract undue attention from the Pau City Police forces, they would be safe to conduct their business in secret.

The Donna and her companions were assembled in the spacious, modestly furnished hotel room she'd chosen for herself. The walls were made of fossilized bone known as Ossic: a unique architectural style on Utapau. The hotel had been constructed underground with its' walls & floors made from the bones of some unknown beast; carved by tools and by hand and assembled by artisans famous throughout the galaxy for their specialty. The room's bed, chairs, and tables had been assembled from similar material, covered in soft materials, and arranged to provide comfort. The Family was arranged in a semi-circle, seated before a portable holo-display which showed a map of an area of Utapau's surface; Ivory stood next to it, using the controls to zoom into an area on the map.

"We believe the location is here... not far from our present location, somewhere between 25 & 30 klicks to the north-west. I need two of you to travel, tomorrow morning, into this area using a land-speeder we've rented from a survey group based here in the city. Your objective is to scout the area and attempt to locate Maurin's compound..." She scanned her assembled group, her face serious. "I don't want any attention brought on us, yet, so you are not to make contact. That means no weapons. I want soil samples, pictures, and a terrain scan. The tools for-which we have available. If you are stopped or questioned, provide them the ID's I've given you. You'll pass inspection. If you're detained, press the emergency locators each of you were given upon arrival - I'll be directly notified, and find you."

"The rest of you will be joining me tomorrow for a brief luncheon... part of our cover is that we're to meet with representatives of the Utapaun Committee. They'll be asking basic questions about what we hope to find here. I'll be doing much of the talking, but please pay attention - while we're not working directly with the group, we have to play nice... at least until we make our move."

She clicked to another screen, this time showing the face of a middle-aged human with a graying beard, strong jawline, short salt & pepper hair, and light-colored eyes.

"This is Jautos Maurin. Our target."

"Information is sketchy, but what we know of him, he's a former power player in the CiS - a low-ranking Intelligence Operative who served as a foreign dignitary to Utapau a few years ago. He has a predisposition toward droids, and prefers to use them for his security needs - apparently, he believes sentients are too unpredictable." She smirked, looking across the group again. "He also has an appreciation for old artifacts... pieces of history, namely old ships and ground vehicles. Which is what we're here for."

She clicked to another screen - this time, of their prize: A Pau City Blockade Runner.

"This is a Pau City Blockade Runner. One of five known to still exist in the entire galaxy... Extremely rare, extremely fast, and a prize for any would-be history nut or tinkerer. The ship is held in a secure facility, but I've been told it is still flight-capable; connected to its' own fuel source, and able to take off & land from a dedicated launching platform which opens to the surface."

"Once we've obtained pictures, soil samples, and a terrain scan, we'll have them analyzed by a... friend, we've obtained here in The City. If Maurin's compound is located in this area, we'll find it. Then, using the connections we establish during the meeting with the Utapaun Committee's Planetary Development group, we'll approach Maurin's compound with the proper credentials which should allow us entry. Our story is that we're surveying local domiciles in the area and across Utapau to determin whether sinkholes open more in areas of heavy domestication, and if so, how we may predict if & when such sinkholes will erupt."

"From there... we may have to improvise. I'm still not sure if he'll allow us entry, whether he's friendly with the local Government, or whether his collection of antiquities is a point of pride or merely a personal collection."

She powered off the screen, setting down the remote, and rubbing her hands together... looking at the members of her Family.

She waited, patiently, for anyone to speak.
​

 

[Diocletian Kahmen’’a]

Objective: Get debriefed on the Theft
Location: Utapau, Utapau System
Equipment: Ship Armour Scimitar Railgun Carbine Rifle Thermal Detonators BARC Speeder, Weaponized Breaching Oxidizer Foam
Tag: Open

Having been the first to arrive at the meeting Diocletian stared at the holo projection, his focus razor-sharp, almost predatory. Well, he did not expect a Pau City Blockade Runner one of the rare ships indeed. Most were in billionaire hangars of collectors. He wanted to know how they were going to get such a ship? Last he heard, these had been saturated in security because there were 5 left in the Galaxy.

A sparsely secured shipyard was simple enough, that's the first place he hit after his old ship was stolen, chasing bounties on a humid grass ball was difficult but worth the creds. Anything with tighter security will be harder to get into.

He never found exactly where it was taken, or if it was still in one piece ships like his are a rare sight so someone might have taken it into a collection. He didn't care much about it as time went on, because he was never going to get it back. He pulled his straying mind back into the objective at hand. He only scratched the top of his hand in discomfort at the mention of CIS, Rhand still fresh in his mind. His eye throbbed automatically at the memory. He nearly died, his mother nearly had a heart attack and he was almost vapourised by death lasers.

His M.O was to get in, deal with any mooks a target had first, then, take out the Bounty and bring it back to the Office, usually without the Ubese generating too much carnage in his wake. But this was to be a covert mission, a thin veiled legal procurement. Well, if it gets the prize, Diocletian isn't going to complain. He's been around long enough to know many clients frown deeply at sedition or complaints.

So far he had no questions, well he did have one:

<"So, when will we get this information and begin the mission?"> His voice has an icy chill to it.

 

[Zavvo the Hutt]

Ivory Stroud , @ Other Family members

A Pau City Blockade Runner. It was diamond in the rough for the underworld. When Royce had learned of it's existence, he'd bought into their little expedition to get it. Though he didn't, couldn't and certainly wouldn't stake his claim to it publicly, he wanted it. He didn't know much about The Donna, and assumed she knew equally as little, even though they both called Coruscant their base of operation.

He'd decided to make the journey to Utapau with the Family, to acquaint himself with them. Even if he couldn't get his hands on the ship, he knew he might be able to lay the groundwork for future deals. Future dealings with the gang meant lots of potential profit for both of them. He stood out from the rest of the seated members of the Family, wearing a bright white suit in contrast to their dark colours. If the news media could see him they would have a field day. Luckily the Family was all about secrecy. He respected that greatly.

"I appreciate your hospitality, Donna. The Hyperspace War has been doing wonders for people like us. I'm honored to be working alongside a veteran of this... game. Especially a woman with such... daring. Really I must say, this plan of yours is a work."

The big man leaned into the table, "what do you intend to do with this lovely ship?"

 

[Gabriel Lynch]

GABRIEL LYNCH​

---

Location: Pau City, Utapau
Objective: Acquire the designated Blockade Runner
Associates: Ivory Stroud , @Diocletian Kahmen''a, Royce

---

Utapau. Another bug's nest somewhere out in the vast reaches of space Gabriel didn't much care for. Were it not for the job the Donna had handed him, He'd have gladly stayed put in the heart of the Galaxy where people like them could still pretend to be civilized with the right line of credits.

Among the group that had arrived on Utapau and rendezvoused at the designated suite, Gabriel Lynch stood nearer to the back of the room intentionally placing the wall behind him for good measure. His associates were thus far adequate, although he hadn't met any of them personally until today, instead his jobs had been more low key and one-on-one with one of the bosses' contacts.

Their story had been decided by people more important than he, those who had been 'Made'. Accepted. Honourable and loyal members of The Family had to be earned through commitment and obedience to the Donna, the Family's head honcho. A Corporate Survey Team, there to gauge the risk of sinkholes or some such nonsense. The whole of Pau City was one big sinkhole as far as Gabriel was concerned.

The theft of a Blockade Runner wasn't typically Gabe's style of job. He was much more inclined toward the solo gigs. Roughing someone up to get them to pay their protection fees or silencing a loose-lipped associate of the Family who'd outlived their worth. As an Enforcer, his racket was all about maintaining the Family's privacy, and the security of their transactions. Going out on a limb like this was risking a public scene, and it wasn't smart for someone with a record like his to be making a spectacle of himself. Good thing they were experienced professionals...-Or at the very least, that's what the Donna had told him.

A two men team. Maurin's Compound. Reconnaissance. The first objective was nothing complicated but would set the groundwork for the rest of the job. Looking to the other two nearby, Gabriel had already made up his mind about them. "I'll volunteer" he spoke up regarding the first objective, "Recon of the Compound. I know what to look for" Gabriel concluded with an air of grim confidence about him. Up until now, his composure had been reserved and the man hadn't made much movement since having arrived within the suite for the meeting. His past experience in the CSF meant that he had an idea of running a simple stakeout.

Jautos Maurin looked to be a fairly well-to-do man, their target with ties to the Confederacy of Independent Systems before the collapse of the southern regions. The CIS had always had a thing for droids, clumsy and useless things as far as Gabriel was concerned, although less of a mess to clean up should they be gunned down. Following the holo of their target, the Blockade Runner looked about as much as Gabriel had expected. Enough to earn them all a pretty paycheck for a couple of days work.

Glancing from Diocletian Kahmen’’a to Royce, Gabriel remained silent and closely observant as they awaited the Donna's response.

 

[Tony Boleoti]

Location: Utapau, Utapau System
Outfit: Street Set
Tags: Ivory Stroud , Diocletian Kahmen’’a , Royce , Gabriel Lynch

Another day, another time where Padawan Tone sneaks out from the temple to do personal business. Yet again he venture far away from the temple, this time to Utapau, another planet he never been to and diving to danger. Tone will be joining The Family on a job to steal a ship, specifically a Pau City Blockade Runner. Tone hasn't had much job done with The Family or met much of the member, as he still far away from being apart of them. For now he's just another hired gun, though Tone isn't that well trained with a blaster yet, not that he's a master on lightsaber since he's practically just good with one lightsaber form. Nevertheless he brought both his blaster and lightsaber, as he will use his blaster primarily and keep his lightsaber hidden, since he doesn't want everyone to know he's a Jedi.

Regardless, he plans to help out The Family since he was invited from to this mission and back when he first got contacted. Tone doesn't know a lot of people other than Jedi, since every he knew that was part of the mob is either dead, missing, or flipped. Thus Tone was quite happy to be apart of his old roots, even if he's not a fully pledge yet. Since he's joining them not as Padawan Tone but just Tone, he came wearing his Street Set which he used when he's not a Jedi. A typical smuggler look, plus a poncho and a helmet, perfect to disguised himself and not look like a Jedi.

Currently Tone is with everyone who's participating in this job, he sits in silent, listening closely since all of this is very new to Tone. All one could hear was Tone heavy breathing and him slowly saying hmm every time someone said something. What they're about to do is a whole different ball game to the stuff Tone did before, not even close. But Tone was excited and thrilled to start the job, as the thought of doing this excites him a lot. His excitement can be seen from his feet tapping slowly but continuous, and his head turning side to side every now and then. Tone waits to be given his role and assignment, as he doesn't want to be rude and look cocky to suggest where he should be put, knowing his lack of experience.​

 

[Ivory Stroud]

( Diocletian Kahmen’’a )

The Donna answered the Bounty Hunter's question, stating: "We'll know if & when we gain access to the compound.. Most collectors want visitors to see how wealthy and special they are. If he's the type of collector that loves to show off his prizes, I have little doubt he'll offer a tour of his home - not to mention we'll probably need one anyway, as we'll be running some sensors and testing equipment with his permission."

The Ubese, she'd decided, would participate in the reconnaissance portion of the mission alongside her Enforcer. If anything went wrong out there, the two of them would need to protect each-other... and they were both skilled in survival & evasion, if they found themselves stuck in a serious storm.

( Royce )

The Donna offered a polite smile to the business-man who'd joined them on this trip. Royce had offered some financial support for their operation and seemed to be a man "In-the-know"; active on Coruscant within the Underworld and similar circles The Family traveled in. The Donna paused for a moment, surveying her assembled team, considering carefully how much she should explain... but then decided it was better they all understood. "We intend to transport this ship to the planet of Denon and sell it to a... Collector of such merchandise. I'm unsure what this contractor intends to do with it, but he makes a living of restoring & selling used starships and the like."

( Gabriel Lynch )

Out of all the individuals who'd joined her on this expedition, The Donna was glad to have one of her best people by her side. The former CSF Investigator Gabriel Lynche was one of her most trusted Enforcers; an expert in skills most of her people simply couldn't touch, a capable interrogator, highly disciplined, and best of all, loyal. If anything went wrong either above or below-ground, The Donna knew she could trust the grizzled old killer to see the job through to the bitter end. Strangely, she'd known from the beginning that he would volunteer for the dirty part of the job.

"I'll leave that in your hands, then. You're in charge of it. Bring me results." She directed, and left it at that.

( Tony Boleoti )

The Donna was intrigued when she'd first heard one of her newer associates would be joining them on such an important mission. It had pleasantly surprised her - the young man seemed remarkably clever, and was obviously somewhat familiar with their line of work that he'd seemed to take an interest in it immediately. In fact, he might even be good at it, she reasoned. This would be his trial by fire and first mission with The Family... If he survived, he'd be that much closer to earning a permanent place in their Organization.

"Tone", she said, using the nickname he seemed to be most familiar with; "You're with me in the meeting, tomorrow. All I want you to do is pay attention, listen carefully.. and watch closely. If you see anything you think I should know, feel anything you think should be mentioned, I want you to tell me privately after the meeting." The young man's training in The Force (however minor) could become quite the secret weapon.

There were no more questions, and The Donna dismissed everyone for the rest of the evening. They were all free to roam the city, so long as they did not cause trouble... They each knew where they needed to be the next day and she trusted them to be there.

(The Next Day)

The Family was up early the next day. Each of them put on their respective "costumes"; the two men (Gabriel Lynch & Diocletian Kahmen’’a ) their prospector's gear and accompanying survey equipment, and The Donna and her team the suits & professional appearance of Administrative staff.
​

The Donna spoke separately with her Enforcer & the bounty hunter before they departed for the coordinates they'd discussed the night previously: "Remember... no weapons, no confrontations. If you're stopped, present your company ID's and explain why you're in the area. Terrain scans, soil samples, and recording footage.. there should be some mountainous areas where you can get a height advantage. Scan for anything that appears to be a dwelling. Record everything and bring it back to me." If there were any questions, she would answer them, and then wish the two men the best of luck.

The meeting with the Utapaun Committee's Geological Developments & Analysis Group was a different mission entirely.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Ivory and her small team of Operatives presented their identification to the Security team before being allowed entry into the Pau City Government building on the Civic Level - the closest level to the surface. Security was tight, but so-long as they did nothing to make anyone suspect they were not who they said they were, The Family would be fine.

It would be over an hour beyond their appointment time until Ivory & her team finally were welcomed into the meeting with The Geological Developments & Analysis group.​

 

[Diocletian Kahmen’’a]

Objective: Go and unwind and prep for the next day
Location: Utapau, Utapau System
Equipment: Ship Armour Scimitar Railgun Carbine Rifle Thermal Detonators BARC Speeder, Weaponized Breaching Oxidizer Foam
Tag:
Ivory Stroud | Royce | Gabriel Lynch | Tony Boleoti

Diocletian had no further queries once the Donna clarified most of the mission. The info will be known soon and, when it does he will be ready. He would be on recon, which is fine by him. Meetings are boring and he hated the legalese and Business talk. He never understood them, which is why he would have been a terrible bureaucrat or politician.

Once he was free to go and do his own thing in the evening, he had made a beeline to the bar. He took to drinking, maybe it's the taste ad zap of the liquor that attracted him or the fact he can stop thinking for the evening, either way, he benefitted. He had around five until he was shooed away from the bar, he for all his violence, was a docile drunk. Friendly too and that was why he was for his trouble, gently pushed out the door.

He didn't cause trouble with it, he was just pushed to another venue. He had a high booze tolerance so he'll recover quickly by tomorrow, he was advised that he would need to change for tomorrow's mission meeting. He rose with the sun anyway so it's no trouble. Even if he was waspish for the first 2 hours after waking.

After another 30 minutes, he decided to turn in for the night, no point staying out all night. Switching the lights off, he went to bed, he slept in his ship, it was safer and he can remove his helmet there without the use of a CPAP. It was used for apnea but Ubese found it helped them off-world in hotels.

The next day
​

After getting changed into his mission clothes, he gave a brief inspection in the mirror, he was now a prospector. He did keep his helmet as he needed it. Gathering up the equipment he will need he headed back to the meeting place. It felt good to be on an actual mission again. His overalls were a tad snug, but he didn't complain, he had no reason to.

Diocletian headed back into the meeting place, carrying most of the equipment, they had enough to scan a planet and moon. He had his pass and ID tucked into his pocket, safe and sound. He never loses anything vital for a mission, well except for that ONE incident.

So the caveats were in place, no weapons, no fighting and it wasn't explicitly said; no killing. Which was fair, they need to be on the low for recon. He never liked being unarmed, it left him exposed. But he agreed to it, all his weaponry was left on his ship.

<"We'll get everything down on film. You can count on it.">

 

[Gabriel Lynch]

GABRIEL LYNCH​

---

Location: Pau City, Utapau
Objective: Recon Jautos Maurin's Compound.
Recon Team: Diocletian Kahmen’’a
Associates: Ivory Stroud , Royce, Tony Boleoti

---

I'll leave that in your hands, then. You're in charge of it. Bring me results.

Handed the wheel, failure would land on Gabriel's head. Looking to Diocletian Kahmen’’a who would be joining him for the reconnaissance portion of the job, Gabriel passed his new squadmate a simple nod. There needn't be anything said, they had their objectives and so he decided now was the time to prepare for the following day.

The evening would be spent revisiting their plan of attack for the job, while Gabriel would also reach out to possible associates of their supposed survey team, following the alias in order to keep to the job parameters while also trying to gauge the location potential activity. Calling ahead, he took it upon himself to schedule an impromptu visit in order to determine what equipment their 'survey team' would be required to bring on-site. Their visit needed to appear as formal and official as could be without alerting the authorities or Pau City's council workers to their business.

When Gabriel was satisfied that he had arranged the visit for the day without appearing too suspicious over the Comm's, he would then turn in to his private quarters and revisit his personal inventory, cleaning and catering to his firearms of which he would not be bringing with him the following day.

Day Two: Reconnaisance.

The work gear wasn't Gabriel's choice of apparel but it played the part in making him look civilian enough. Meeting with Diocletian back where they had previously rendezvoused the evening past, Gabriel called for their transport and the two would be able to depart once his teammate was good and ready. Armed with only their wits about them, falsified identification and the clothes of grease-monkeys, Gabriel's age and worn expression left much to be desired, the epitome of a middle-aged man with a dead-end job, nowhere to go in life and no one to call their bluff.

"Let's get started then".

 

[Tony Boleoti]

Location: Utapau, Utapau System
Objective: Participate in the meeting with The Donna
Outfit: Street Set
Tags: Ivory Stroud Diocletian Kahmen’’a Royce Gabriel Lynch

Tone name was called as he looked at The Donna, she then told him that he would be joining the meeting with her and she asked him to keep an eye out for anything worth noted. This seemed like a simple tasked, but it is far from anything simple, which Tone knows very well. "Of course, I will do as you have instructed" Tone said in a excited but formal manner,

Once the meeting was over, everyone left including Tone, as they each went to spent their free time within the city until tomorrow. Tone decided to roam and look around the city, since this is the first time he had been here. Tone is still young and learning after all, so he's still intrigued and curious to everything new to him. He kept his helmet on all the time, to hide his face and so he does not get recognized while he's here. He went all around the city, from looking at shops to city structures all over the place, as he even bought some souvenirs for the Padawan he is close with.

Once Tone was satisfied with looking around Utapau, he went to his private quarters to rest. He meditated in his room, even though he does not enjoy doing that kind of activity, he felt it was necessary considering what he's about to do. Anything that would help his body and mind be fully prepared, Tone is willing to do so.

Next Day

Tone went to where he was supposed to meet The Donna and the rest who will be going to the meeting. He gave a small bow when he met the rest again once he's at the meet up point, years of being a Jedi made Tone unconsciously bow to people he met out of habit. Tone then followed The Donna into the Pau City Government building, as he pay close attention to everything that was happening whilst not raising any suspicion from the security. Remember what you were told Tone, just do what you've been asked and everything will be fine, like Master N'aku said, just trust in yourself and your abilities, as it will help you get through anything, Tone thought and readied him self. Now Tone waits for the meeting to start with the rest, continuing to be on guard and stay cautious. ​

 

[Aurelius Baldor]

​

Aurelius nursed a glass of Port in a Storm, a taste he had acquired after a chance meeting with a certain Confederate High Marshal during a sabacc game on Abregado-rae. Confederacy. Confederacy. So many things in Aurelius' life the past few years found themselves coming back around to the damned Confederacy. Aside from that business on Honoghr, that was a charity job. He wondered if their mark had known Kiff or Holt during his time in the Confederacy. Doubtful. Still. "I could make a few calls, see if they could offer us any additional information on our mark here. I've rubbed elbows with a few of those types over the past few years, at least one of 'em might be able to give us a better idea of what we can expect from Mister Maurin." The ones that weren't currently rotting in an Imperial jail cell, of course. Poor Kiff. Aurelius liked to think the Dervish was quite the hot number, but he knew it didn't hold a candle to such a rare ship as the Blockade Runner. At least in terms of worth, that is. Looks can be deceiving, he knew that, but it still seemed like a hunk of junk, albeit an incredibly fast hunk of junk. But hey, if the buyer on Denon was willing to pay big for it, who was he to judge?

Swirling his drink around, he observed the other inhabitants of the room aside from himself and Ivory Stroud . Diocletian Kahmen’’a : an Ubese, he'd recognize that style of helmet anywhere. Bounty hunter through and through, by the looks of him. Gabriel Lynch, an Enforcer for The Family, a useful addition to the team especially if things went south. Tony Boleoti , "Tone." Either a smuggler, or someone trying very hard to look like one. He tended to have an eye for details. New blood for The Family. And then, there was, of course, Royce. He didn't personally know the man, but he knew of him. To an extent, at least. He knew enough to know that he wasn't a member of The Family. Trying to make new friends, new business associates, that seemed likely. Considering the business magnate was at a meeting of career criminals, discussing the theft of a priceless (or, more accurately, very pricey) ship, it was very clear the man wasn't as squeaky clean as he appeared in the interviews.

​

As much as Aurelius hated doing so, he made sure his babies High Roller and Royal Flush were kept in a secure stash before donning the proper apparel to accompany The Donna into the Government Building. His tattoos were all hidden by the clothes, and as he regarded himself in the mirror he mused that he almost looked like an upstanding member of society for the first time in...well, that was it. The first time. Always a first time for everything, right? When they reconvened, he took note of Tone. Young blood was right, he barely looked old enough to drink in some systems. But he trusted Ivory's judgement; they don't make you a Vigo for nothing, after all. And hey, this was as good an opportunity as any for the kid to prove his worth.

 

[Zavvo the Hutt]

The next day Royce confined himself to a hotel room. Officially he was not here with the Family. Officially he had no knowledge of their existence. Officially, he was here for some R&R, which the Pau'ans saw to with regular room service deliveries of offworld Brandy paired with local delicacies. He preferred to operate from behind.

The large man initiated the holotable in front of him from which the likeness of a grizzled Rattataki appeared from the waist up.

"Burdoq."

"Sir."

"Are you in position?"

"I am. We're through the first level of security. You were right about the mob, boss. They don't mess around."

"The mob is... such an ugly word, Burdoq. We aren't dealing with the Hutts this time around. These people are a little more sophisticated."

"You seem awfully fond of people we're about to rob."

"No, that was never the plan. Only an idea."

"I thought you wanted this ship?? To make the Kessel Run?"

"Quiet down, son. It wouldn't make a difference. The Pykes are expecting us to try something that stupid. No... what we need is connections. Connections that these people have. Continue as normal. The stoic look fits you well, and if it keeps you from talking... all the better. In hindsight, I should have sent Ninya."

"Princess Pink? She'd be dead by now."

"She possesses a tact you don't. Now listen up. Keep an eye on the Devaronian. It seems he has ties to Kessel, which means possibly to the Pykes. Learn what you can, quietly."

Royce abruptly ended the call. The retreating hologram dimmed the room. He took a swig of brandy and sank deeper into the couch.

-----------------------------------------

Burdoq's brute frame parted from the side room where he had taken his important call. The Pau'ans suspected nothing of Royce's involvement, as it should be. He rejoined the group of whatever they were supposed to be. Burdoq didn't care, so long as the disguises worked, and so far they had proven themselves. Maybe his boss was right. Hutts would have just brute forced it. He suspected Royce was right, that his Twi'lek informant would have made a better fit here. Burdoq assumed his experience with these types is what got him this job. If something went down, he'd have a hell of a lot more to show for it than any of Royce's other pawns...

Ivory Stroud Aurelius Baldor Tony Boleoti Diocletian Kahmen’’a Gabriel Lynch

 

[Ivory Stroud]

"Good morning, Esteemed Council," She began, standing in front of the group of dignitaries, politicians, scientists, and advisors, "My name is Gwendoline Allos, Head of Operations for Kallu'kai Survey Team." Her voice carried clearly through the large room; many of the seats were open, with the ones closest to the front occupied by the two men who had joined her for the meeting: Tony Boleoti and Aurelius Baldor . A few stragglers, curious folk, and a few sentients in business suits had taken up some seating but most of them looked disinterested.

The group of 7 consisted of 3 Pau'an males, 1 Pau'an Female, and two Utai - both races were pretty evenly represented. The Male Pau'an who sat at the very center was the Head of the Commission; tall and gaunt with his teeth painted red and dark eyes which leered at "Gwendoline" coldly. Ivory had always found the Species a little... disconcerting to look at, but many of them had proven to be downright friendly in personal conversation.

This one, who had introduced himself as "Commissioner Dul Malvolm", leaned forward, listening intently.

"We at Kallu'kai extend our deepest gratitude for having us here today. We understand your plight - your planet of Utapau struggles with great storms, and your people work tirelessly to improve quality of life below-ground. My colleagues and I-" Ivory indicated the two men behind her, "have already begun the work we agreed upon." She paused, looking from one member of the Committee to the other. All of them were listening. Good.

"As we speak, I have sent two of my best men - expert scientists - to begin the long process of analyzing the surface. With state-of-the-art technology and an expert team of Analysts, we hope to have results for the honorable Committee by weeks' end."

"That fast?" Commissioner Malvolm spoke, his voice a raspy baritone.

"Gwendoline" nodded, clasping her hands before her. "Yes. Kallu'kai wastes no time. Our services are the best in the Galaxy."

"We were aware of your visit, and the agreed upon sum... but you requested a meeting with us." The female Pau'an spoke, lifting a slender finger crowned by a long black nail.

"Yes. In order to do our job to the best of our ability, we require assistance from this esteemed council. A minor complication, I assure you."

"Which is?" Commissioner Malvolm spoke again, steepling his long fingertips. The Pau'an looked like a villain in a holo-horror vid.

Ivory smiled. This seemed too easy. "In order to ascertain whether sinkholes open more often near domesticated areas, we would require access to a few domiciles in the area we've begun surveying first... a minor inconvenience for those residing there, but our team will come & go without delay. Our equipment is carried by hand and we have two teams available, which means the job can be done very quickly."

The Commission exchanged looks.
​

"This is required?" Malvolm asked. "No," Ivory replied, "But in order for us to bring you the most accurate recommendations, it would aid us greatly."

There was some movement & shuffling amongst the Committee as they looked amongst themselves. A few muttered words in their native languages were exchanged (Which Ivory could translate with the help of her iBorg "Clarion"), that indicated they were all in agreement. She stood, waiting patiently... until Commissioner Malvolm turned back toward her, blinking his dark, deep set eyes.

"Where are you beginning?" He asked.

Ivory explained, and the Commissioner confirmed by looking amongst the committee again. They were unanimous.

"You will have what you require. We will contact domiciles in the area, and explain your purpose in the Region. Do not bother the residents there unduly. Many do not prefer visitors." It was the longest statement he would make, and in response, "Gwendoline Allon" bowed at the waist - a gesture of respect.

The gavel came down with a crack, and the meeting was adjourned.

Diocletian Kahmen’’a and Gabriel Lynch would each receive a coded communication: "Meeting Adjourned. Begin Phase 2."

The arid region they'd been sent to was hot with sparse vegeation, and one could see for kilometers. A number of hills, valleys, and a a mountain range were present or visible in the distance, and over the past hour, they'd seen two personal shuttles entering or leaving orbit - as-to their owners, nothing could be gleaned. Yet. It was late morning, edging into Mid-Day - plenty of time to accomplish their mission.

The Family had received permission to operate in the area. Now, the real work began.
​

 

[Diocletian Kahmen’’a]

Objective: Begin phase 2
Location: Utapau, Utapau System
Equipment: Surveying equipment, ID, telescope, scanners
Tag: Ivory Stroud | Royce | Gabriel Lynch | Tony Boleoti

The place was arid, full of rocks and scrub, it reminds him of home, but without the thin atmosphere. Once he got the message, Diocletian got to work, mostly to not arouse suspicion, the long-range scan was active from where he had placed three surveyors scanners, pointed in different directions.

So far, only two personal ships were spotted. The owners were not important or worth bothering about. Judging by the sun's position it was nearly noon, so they have time to survey and do their jobs. He quickly took a look in the telescope to look for anything that could be unusual.

A suspicious buzz of activity near the hills or on the mountain range didn't seem to be anywhere. He did check, none looked volcanic or active. So they are not threatening. Once or twice he had to present ID.

He was not a fan of the name Amon Gretti, but he can't be too picky. Not when he needed to be covert and stealthy. So far they haven't seen anything, the terrain is rather flat and few places to stick anything out here.

But he did spot a shack and a large cube building on his second horizon sweep. He took a few pictures of it and sent them directly to Ivory, he made sure to maintain an encrypted stream of data flowing which saves time and patience for everyone.

Diocletian was a little marked that he couldn't bring weapons or fight, he did well to clamp these annoyances down, no one could tell he was annoyed at all.

 

[Tony Boleoti]

Location: Utapau, Utapau System
Objective: Participate in the meeting with The Donna
Outfit: Street Set
Tags: Ivory Stroud Aurelius Baldor Diocletian Kahmen’’a Gabriel Lynch

The meeting had started with the Utapau Council, as Tone stood behind The Donna and Auerilius Baldo. As instructed, Tone was focused on listening to the meeting and paying close attention to his surrounding, to see if he could find anything useful to pick up in this meeting. Tone not only use his eyes and ears to survey the room and everyone it it, but also senses the surrounding with the force to feel if there's anything off. He only uses the force a small portion of it to not attract any attention, as he may not be fully capable on using the force to do so, he can still try sense and feel if there's something wrong. The meeting continue as The Donna and the council continued to talk with each other, as the council gave some question regarding their presence and activities they will do here. Tone looked closely at the council facial movements, but there was not much to see or analyze, as they all acted normal as then talked amongst themselves to give their verdict on The Donna request. They agreed on what was asked from them and only asked them to not bother the resident. During the meeting Tone did not gain much of anything since his prowess in the force isn't perfected yet, only felt weird sensation but he wasn't to sure why and what caused it.

Once the meeting was done, Tone waits before they were given the go from The Donna to head out and continued on with the plan.​

 

[Gabriel Lynch]

GABRIEL LYNCH​

---

Location: Pau City, Utapau
Objective: Recon Jautos Maurin's Compound.
Recon Team: Diocletian Kahmen’’a
Associates: Ivory Stroud , Royce, Tony Boleoti

---

"Meeting Adjourned. Begin Phase 2."

Gabriel Lynch looked down to his comm's device while Diocletian was set about looking the legitimate part of the survey team their cover story had set them out to be. It seemed that all things were moving smoothly on The Donna's side of the job and so they were clear to complete their part.

"Confirmation's in, we have the green light. Intelligence on our targets' compound asap" the middle-aged man informed his partner for the ride. He would then move to their speeder, retrieving a worn looking datapad and tapping on the screen in quick succession.

From the rear of the speeder, two spherical reconnaissance droids would be deployed from the trunk of the vehicle, both of which were grey with yellow markings posing as construction survey drones, for which Gabriel would make good use of their life-form scanners and terrain mapping. "If anyone asks, they're for seismic detection and ground density readings" Gabe clarified, glancing back to Diocletian Kahmen’’a and informing the man. It would be important that they both were on the same page should their cover story come into question.

Looking back to the two drones, Gabriel soon input the next command into the datapad instructing them to make a wide sweep of the surrounding area, to report back on any activity or readings depicting sentient design. Both droids were, of course, civilian in make and consisted of no weapons nor offensive apparatus of any kind. This was a 'by the books' job, after all.

 

[Ivory Stroud]

Quiet classical music played in the background as Maurin plucked a grape and popped it in his mouth; biting down, the tiny fruit exploded in his mouth. Dim light filled the bathroom; flickering candles in every corner of the room. He closed his eyes, savoring the flavor of the imported delicacy. He shifted slightly, causing the water in the tub to stir, sloshing back & forth as he sunk deeper into the warm, frothy waves. Slender fingers reached for the glass of champagne beside him - he'd memorized where it was, found it, lifted it to his lips, and sipped. The bubbles tickled his nose. He set the glass back where he'd found it (the exact same spot), and finally felt his muscles loosening.

From the bedroom beyond, he heard movement. Natia was stirring, it sounded like. If he didn't shut the door, she'd sweep in and-

"Where are my damn slippers!?"

Ugh.

"Jay, where'd you put my damn slippers?"

"...Haven't touched them, Natia."

He could feel her staring at him. He didn't move. If he didn't move, she'd just go away. He was right. Her footsteps receded, and he was just beginning to relax again, when suddenly: Bleep Bleep.

Feth.

Bleep Bleep.

He knew it wouldn't stop until he answered, so he sat up and reached out for the comm-link beside the tub.
Bleep-bl-

"What?"

The voice which came through the other line was robotic & measured. "Sir. We have detected unregistered reconnaissance droids in our airspace." The Security System was living up to the credits he'd spent. Maurin laid back in the tub again, sighing out loud as he plucked another grape from the bowl beside him. "Good. Take care of it." Then he disconnected without another word. The grape exploded with flavor in his mouth, and he closed his eyes again.

Life underground couldn't be sweeter.

Gabriel Lynch Diocletian Kahmen’’a
​

The surveillance droids continued their sweep, painting a picture line by line upon Gabriel's monitor. They'd split into separate directions, expanding out over 3 kilometers; the work was slow but steady. A number of blips and pings appeared on the screen as the Recon droids did what they were programmed. There were four sinkholes in the area, with three of them occupied. One of the sinkholes was smaller, while the other two were large; but only one of the larger sinkholes had any kind of traffic running from orbit.

All three of the sinkholes had significant heat signatures, but only one (the large sinkhole with no traffic coming or going) had what seemed to be an entire network of tunnels below it. The Droids couldn't get an accurate reading as the depth of the cavern was considerable - but it was there, and it was expansive.

About thirty minutes later, from the same large sinkhole, there was finally movement: A small drop-ship rising from the chasm, kicking up sand into a whirlwind as it took to the skies... Heading toward the two "Surveyors" At speed.

~~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

The drop-ship wasn't suited for off-planet travel, which was strange. As it got closer it became clear that the smaller transport was designed for on-planet travel and likely as a shipping or personnel transport. It was not a Security shuttle, as it did not appear to have any weapons visible. It circled Gabriel & Diocletian twice, making its' presence obvious before finally swooping in to land a few hundred yards away. Two metallic shapes dismounted from the shuttle immediately upon its' landing, and began the trudge slightly uphill toward where the two Family members had sparked their speeder. They were droids... and they were armed.

As they got closer, their exact appearance could be determined. B-1 Battle Droids; an advanced yet still simplified Confederacy staple. These models were capable of operating independently of a Control ship, which would explain their ability to serve as Security Forces. The droids were armed with standard blaster rifles, approaching together.

"Identify yourselves. You are utilizing scanning technology. Your presence is not authorized."

It would seem word hadn't yet reached this area that their presence could be expected. Fething bureaucrats never did anything on time.

Aurelius Baldor Tony Boleoti

Ivory, Aurelius, and Tony departed the Government district and began the short trek back to the hotel. Ivory had a pep in her step, stopping once at a market stall to purchase a few pieces of fruit for the gentlemen with her - a simple lunch to tide them over until the rest of their team returned. While they ate, Ivory leaned against the railing which protected Sentients from toppling into the yawning chasm below. She admired the construction, and made a comment to her companions about how these people had persevered: "Survival is a matter of the mind, not of the body."

They were alone, so Ivory finished her piece of fruit then tossed the core into the darkness over her shoulder - not even watching as it fell.

"So... That went well." She said, looking between them. She was in a perfect position to see anyone coming or going behind them, and was paying close attention to their surroundings. Something didn't feel right... like they were being watched. But she could see nothing.

"It shouldn't take long for the others to finish. By tonight. we should have the information we need. First time working with these Pau'ans... They're pretty creepy, huh?" She asked with a grin, keeping her voice low.

 

[Diocletian Kahmen’’a]

Objective: Keep calm and stick to the plan
Location: Utapau, Utapau System
Equipment: Surveying equipment, ID, telescope, scanners
Tag: Ivory Stroud | Royce | Gabriel Lynch | Tony Boleoti

Diocletian also got the results of the drone scan on his own screen, two sinkholes, neither were the hives of activity he had hoped for, then his curiosity piqued at the dropship's sudden appearance and trajectory, it was coming this way. Highly suspicious, why would there be a Dropship in a nasty looking sinkhole? He instinctively reached for his now absent sword, he then grabbed both his ID and paperwork instead, he had kept them in a safe place.

He made sure to keep the ship in his sights, it wasn't armed, nor was it military, but the shape was familiar and he's seen one like it once before. The occupants were known right away, CIS B1 Battle units, archaic but serviceable. They were also armed and will not hesitate to shoot if either he or Gabriel faltered. which is why he was opting to speak first. He had the paperwork and ID stating their clearances in hand and ready.

He was actively choosing to be civil and restrained. Their mission is too important for him to give in to his aggression or the instinct to fight first and ask later. That could get them both killed and that won't do at all.

<"I am Amon Gretti, we have permission clearances to be in this area. The correct paperwork is right here."> Diocletian replied, handing the required documents over.

Tone calm and civil. Perfect to avoid suspicion and to keep his brain inside his skull.

 

[Dedata | Celty Ree]

Tags|| Ivory Stroud | Diocletian Kahmen’’a | Royce | Gabriel Lynch | Tony Boleoti

Information a currency worth more than credits. Dangerous in wrong hands a weapon in the right. Though this time it was something she needed. Something small but sought after for something she was constructing. A LOTID P49SK9-DASH circuit board a not sought out item however it is rare. Her own sources have lead her here where one can be found in a ship held by a collector of sorts. Though that was not all, there was a mark on the ship. A crew of some kind was after it too. A perfect opportunity to acquire some temporary pawns in this never ending game of chess. After all security systems are one thing. B1 battle droids guarding the network even Dedata had a limit on how many of them she could hack without getting into the network they run from.

She had arrived days earlier, scoped out the mark and even found out where these people where staying. Most likely where they'd do last moment planning. She thought to herself. Those days gave her some time to do setting up herself. The hotel networks where not hard to crack. Rather what corporations claim is top of the range security was nothing but a mare bad joke, especially to Dedata. Sure they may catch the more common slicers equipment, but everything she used was custom made, scripts written by her own hand like the olden days before algorithms and braindead cyber's. There was no art, no love and no soul to it.

The day soon came from watching afar still she deduced that this Ivory person was leading the operations with how people coddled around her. It make it obvious though it was natural for the strong to lead, nothing but nature. Moving quick the Info Broker made her move to set up the meeting on her terms. Nothing beats the surprised guest. That was a lie, it had almost gotten her kills once or twice by people twitchy with their blasters. Though the way the woman carries her self make her seem less the type to shoot first. After all watching them fabricate a story was rather enjoyable. Morons practically ate from her palm.

Dedata moved in through the back entrances and straight to the ventilation system, a confined maze of metal, fast spinning blades and the occasional potential to fall to her death. It took her time to navigate and stopping periodically to turn fans off for her to pass. She was careful to stop moving when someone passed below her as to not arise suspicion. What theoretically should have taken her twenty minuets turned into nearly thirty. She was cutting it close. Reaching the right area she lifted the grate.

Click... click... click, the lights shut off darkening the hall way to darkness as a light thud could be heard from the woman dropping down. Muffled steps walked across the carpeted floor in quick swift steps. Every few feet a light hint of illumination from exit signs reflecting from atop the helmet. Though nothing a security camera will pick up. They had been set on a loop to appear all was normal. The steps stop and a new light from a data pad.

Dedata plugged it in to the key reader her eyes watching as letters, numbers and symbols flashed by every second a box filling in till finally chlick. The woman pushed the door open and closed it behind her. Outside the room it would return to normal as if nothing happened. She looked around for a moment. The room was pristine though who knows what matter of things are hidden from the eyes. Her hand trailed against the top of some draws as she walked further into the dark hotel room. Dedata kept her datapad open as she moved over to the bed sitting on the corner and began to type.

 

[Aurelius Baldor]

Aurelius chuckled, taking a bite of his own fruit. They bought it hook, line, and sinker. As Ivory Stroud continued to talk, he leaned on the railing, cocking his head. "You thinking what I'm thinking? Think it went a bit too well? In my experience, 'bureaucrats' and 'simple' are words you don't usually put together." He had a bad feeling about this. This was had been easy so far, he had a feeling it wouldn't remain that way for long. "Something's giving me bad vibes, and it ain't the Pau'an." Man, he was starting to feel naked without his blasters. Aurelius hoped Diocletian Kahmen’’a and Gabriel Lynch were having as easy a time as they had.

Tony Boleoti Dedata | Celty Ree Royce ​

 

[Tony Boleoti]

Location: Utapau, Utapau System
Objective: Head Back To The Hotel With The Team
Outfit: Street Set
Tags: Ivory Stroud Diocletian Kahmen’’a Gabriel Lynch Aurelius Baldor Royce Dedata | Celty Ree

Tony followed everyone as they all went out of the government district to begin walking back to the hotel. During the walk back, The Donna bought some fruits and offered some to everyone with her. Tone politely decline, as he does not want to remove his helmet covering his face, he would only removed when his at his private quarter when he is alone. Since the meeting, Tone kept having this weird feeling, as if something was telling him something, maybe warning him through the force. But Tone can't know for sure, since his prowess with the force is still very green, as he still have much to learn as a Padawan of The Jedi Order. They stopped near a structure, as The Donna finished her fruit and then commented about how Survival is a matter of the mind, not the body. Tone could only guess it meant having a strong mental mind and unwavering will or something, he could only listened and nod a bit.

Once they look around their surrounding and saw they are alone, and can easily see if anyone is coming their direction, The Donna talking about the meeting they just had. She talked about how the meeting went well, that the others should finish their parts soon and talked about how the Pau'ans looked creepy. Tone then said in a respectful but a bit of excitement, "It's my first time seeing Pau'ans, they're quite interesting" and then added "Their body structure fascinates me". Tone always loved meeting different species ever since he was a kid and exploring new places, and his personality showed a bit when he said that. Moments later, Tone kept lookin around as he kept feeling weird sensation, the sensation he felt at the meeting was once again appear. Tone wanted to say something about the weird sensation he felt, but he then remembered he should tell it privately and only to The Donna. So for now Tone kept silent, as he continued to wait and stand with the rest.​