Chapter 4: Names can be deceiving...

Tranquility Station

 

Truths-Communication and Data

In settled domains, a network of data hubs called the Weave allows near-instantaneous communication and data-sharing between ships and outposts. Because of their importance, Weave hubs are often targets for sabotage, and communication blackouts are not uncommon. Beyond the most populous sectors, travelers and outposts are still commonly isolated and entirely off the grid.

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[Begin a Session: Flashback reveals an aspect of your background or nature +1 momentum (6)]

[Empath Asset- Tony can't read minds but he can read the intentions of people, it triggers as a gut instinct]

When I was 7 years old, I had a gut feeling about a person that my dad was talking to. I knew he was a bad man, and I could just tell that he was going to do something to my dad.

I pushed my dad out of the way just as the man tried to stab him with a knife he held behind his back. My dad quickly punched the man in the face with a few right hooks before knocking him out with an uppercut.

"How did you know?" My dad asked me.

"I just had a feeling," I said.

"Gavel men have a six sense so to speak." My father said. "All of us have had it. I have it, my father, my father's father, and now you. Always trust your gut, Tony. It can save your life as you just saw."

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On the way back from finding Magnus, I decided to spend a day traveling out into the middle of nowhere and destroy the Artifact with my blaster. Once it was melted to slag, I buried it deep in the ground so that no one could find it.

[Progress Roll: I will keep the Artifact out of the Collectives hands: Strong Hit = 9 vs 6 | 7: mark 1 tick on Quest track]

[Sojourn +heart: 6+3+0=9 vs 9|3: Weak Hit. You may do one recovery move. Took + health (5)]

After I got home, I spent a few days recouping from my ordeal. I got a message from Magnus telling me that he made it home safe and his wife thanks me for bringing him back alive. He said he was going to grab a few of the other workers and collapse the mine where the vault is located. 

I had just gotten off the vid with Alcar, he was wondering why our hoverbike was different. I told him not to worry about it. It was better than the old one. He didn't seem pleased when he hung up.

A message appeared from Tranquility Station that was rerouted from the Weave. It was from a guy named Cole Winter.

Hey Gavel, you don't know me, but you know my husband, Lucas Sayer. He's talked a lot about you over the last few days, telling me how you saved his life and were someone that could be trusted. He said some other things that I probably shouldn't say over a transmission. 

Anyway, I need your help. Lucas went missing yesterday. He never came home from work. I think it has something to do with the day he met you. Can you come to Tranquility Station? Here's my address. Hope to see you soon.

Attached to the transmission was an address within Tranquility Station. If Lucas got in trouble with the Collective because of me, the least I could do was go and see if I could help out.

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The Drift Runner was a light attack vessel that I won in a card game a few years back. I hadn't really had much use for it since I mostly worked here on Artemis, but it did come in handy when I had to make a long trip somewhere. 

I went through the preflight checklist and once everything was green, I got permission to depart Kepler Colony and made my way to the entrance to the Drift. 

Tranquility Station wasn't on any of my navigational charts, so I was going to have to make my own passage there. It should only take me a few days to get there but you never know when traveling the Drift. There is a known passage from Artemis to Dreck, from there I would have to go my own way. 

[Set a course +supply: 4+5+0=9 vs 10|5: Weak Hit: you arrive but face a complication. Spaceborne Peril: (80): Someone questions your presence here]

The trip to Rampart took two days and was a pretty straightforward run from Kepler Colony. People have been making it for dozens of years. Rampart was the Mining and Salvage hub of the Sector. I've done this trip myself a few times in the last two years for some odd jobs.

Dozens of people lived there at any given time, but its main purpose was a jumping-off point to go explore the deeper areas of space within the Forgotten Oasis Sector and to coordinate any salvage and mining missions that occur in space as compared to any mining or salvage done on the world. 

The station was run by an old, grizzled Watchdog that goes by the name of Shutdown. He had two medium-sized attack ships at his disposal, and they usually patrolled around the outskirts of Rampart to keep any raiders at bay. 

[Ask the Oracle. Has Gavel and Shutdown butted heads in the past? Unlikely: [Ask the Oracle: Yes]

[Ask the Oracle. Has any word spread from Artemis about Gavel's participation in the Artifact incident? Small Chance: Ask the Oracle: No]

I had a few run-ins with Shutdown in the past and I would say he's not my biggest fan. As I exited the Drift, I began charging my E-drive right away, I didn't really want to stay in this part of space any longer than I had to. 

About two hours into the charge cycle I got a warning from my ship's computer.

"Incoming vessel, Cruiser class, weapons hot."

The Cruiser class had some serious firepower on it, but my Corvette was much faster and more maneuverable. I liked my odds if I were to get in a dogfight, plus I probably knew the pilot flying the ship.

My communicator beeped and I put it on screen. A scraggly-looking man wearing a Watchdog uniform was smiling at me.

"Hey Chancey," I said.

"What are you doing here Gavel?" Chancey said. "I thought Shutdown told you not to come around these parts. He's still pissed about the last time you were here."

"I'm just passing through, Chancey. I have no intention of landing at Rampart."

"Well, you are still violating Rampart space. I should haul you back to the station and let Shutdown deal with you."

[compel +iron (threaten). 5+4+0=9 vs 7|3: Strong Hit: They do what you wish +1 momentum (7)]

"You could try, Chancey. But I like my odds against you. My ship is much quicker, and you know I'm a better pilot. I wouldn't want to leave you floating in space in an escape pod hoping your buddy picks you up." I said as I powered up my weapons.

Chancey looked at me for a minute, I could see him thinking of a way to get out of this without having to fight. Chancey was a lapdog of Shutdown but when push came to shove, he was a coward.

"I'll tell you what. How about you just transfer over some credits, and I'll tell Shutdown you wanted to make amends." Chancey said with a smile.

I agreed to the request because I didn't really want to fight at the moment, and I had other things to worry about at Tranquility Station. Once the transaction was complete, Chancey left me alone and as soon as my E-drive was full I entered the Drift.

[Gave up some of my resources to Chancey. -1 Supply (4)]

[Undertake an Expedition (troublesome) +wits: 2+3+0=5 vs 5|7: Miss, you are waylaid by a crisis, or arrive at a waypoint to confront an immediate hardship or threat. Do not mark progress and Pay the Price: Isolation or fear presses in]

[-2 spirit (2) Endure Stress +spirit: 2+2+0=4 vs 2|6: Weak Hit: if you are not shaken, you may Lose Momentum (-1) in exchange for +1 spirit. -3 momentum (4) +3 Spirit (5)]

A White Dwarf Star

The next anchorage was a haunting sight to behold. I came out of the Drift with the bright spectral light of a White Dwarf Star shining across my viewscreen. It immediately reminded me of some old stories that my dad and grandfather used to tell me when I was a boy, about spacers that have seen ghost ships floating near White Dwarfs and how the unnatural energies from a White Dwarf brought to life the dead to exact revenge upon the living. 

My father always warned me that supernatural occurrences and entities are especially common near a white dwarf star. Spacers call the White Dwarf's "Ghost Lights", and many believe that you should avoid them at all costs.

My anxiety levels began to rise as I waited for my E-drive to recharge. Being this close to the White Dwarf gave me the willies and I wanted to get out of here. Once the green light on my E-drive flashed I got out of here and marked this spot on my navigation charts to avoid it. 

[Undertake an Expedition (troublesome) +wits: 6+3+0=9 vs 6|1: Strong Hit: you reach a waypoint. Envision the location and mark progress (3 boxes)]

I decided to take a nap while I waited for the E-drive to charge. A few hours in my proximity alarms began to go off. As I opened up the viewscreen I saw a large rogue asteroid passing by the Drift Runner. I easily made a few course corrections to avoid its path and watched it drift by.

[Undertake an Expedition (troublesome) +wits: 6+3+0=9 vs 8|2: Strong Hit: you reach a waypoint. Envision the location and mark progress (6 boxes)

Coming out of the Drift, I saw a massive Red Smoldering Star in the distance. I hadn't had much experience with them, so I marked it in the charts and waited to get out of here.

[Undertake an Expedition (troublesome) +wits: 4+3+0=7 vs 3|2: Strong Hit: you reach a waypoint. Envision the location and mark progress (9 boxes)]

[Progress Roll: Make it to Tranquility Station: Weak Hit = 6 vs 10 | 1: you face an unforeseen complication at the end of your expedition. Make the legacy reward one rank lower (none for a troublesome expedition) and envision what you encounter. Story Complication Oracle (63): Trap is sprung]

[Due to the nature of the Complication: Ask Oracle: Did Lucas give me up to the Seekers? Likely: Ask the Oracle: No]

[Ask the Oracle. Was Lucas kidnapped by the Seekers? 50/50: Ask the Oracle: No]

[Ask the Oracle. Is the trap due to what happened on Artemis? 50/50: Ask the Oracle: Yes]

Tranquility Station

As I came out of the Drift, I noticed Tranquility Station up ahead in the distance. Tranquility was one of the places that no one ever really wants to go to unless you are loyal to the Collective.

The Collective uses Tranquility Station for a few purposes. Its main function is research, all of the Collective's researchers are stationed here. Hundreds of people call Tranquility home at any given time as people come and go on assignment all over the Collectives known domain. 

Its other main reason is supposedly a secret, but everyone knows Tranquility is the headquarters of the Seekers. Tranquility holds all the information gathered by the Seekers throughout the years and is stored in their massive database on the computer servers. 

The Seekers have a squadron of ships that patrol the system keeping the unwanted away from Tranquility as well as protecting it from the recent spike of Pirate activity going on around the Sector. 

Rumors have it that a rebellion is starting up due to the way the Collective has been treating its citizens. People have had enough and want change and the Seekers have been working overtime trying to find the leaders of this rebellion and put it to rest.

As I made my approach to Tranquility, I noticed a lot of activity going on around the station. Many ships were waiting to dock while the Seekers Cruisers were patrolling close by. Scans showed that the Cruisers were all weapons hot. Not a good sign.

"Tranquility Station, this is Gavel of the Drift Runner, requesting permission to dock. Over" I said.

"Send your credentials, please. Over." 

I sent over the required information and held my position as I watched the other ships flying around. After a few minutes, I noticed one of the Cruisers veer in my direction. 

"This is Tranquility Station, what is the purpose of your visit today? Over."

"I am meeting a client onboard Tranquility Station. I am a Private Investigator. Over" 

Another Cruiser changed direction and headed in my direction; I was beginning to get nervous. It seemed like an eternity waiting for control to respond. 

"This is Tranquility Station, sorry for the delay. You are cleared for landing Drift Runner. Please proceed to docking bay three. Over."

The two Cruisers sailed past me as I made my way to docking bay three. 

The switched the Drift Runner to auto-docking and got my gear ready. After a few minutes, I could feel the Drift Runner land and heard the docking clamps lock on. I opened the airlock and made my way down the ramp and headed towards the doors to the main station. 

Just as I was about to exit the docking bay, a group of Watchdogs, led by one of the Seekers in his white robes were waiting for me. The three Watchdogs aimed their shotguns at me.

"Greetings Gavel, if you will come with me, please. I have a few questions for you regarding an incident on Artemis about a week and a half ago." The Seeker said. "This isn't a request." 

[End of Session Move: How will Tony get out of this? What happened to Lucas? We will find out next time. +1 Momentum (6)]

[End of Session Stats: Momentum 6, Health 5, Spirit 5, Supply 4]

Chapter 3: And they're off!

A Remnant

Truths-Precursors

The biomechanical lifeforms we call the Remnants, engineered by ancient civilizations as weapons in a cataclysmic war, survived the death of their creators. On scarred planets and within ancient vaults throughout the Forge, the Remnants still guard ancient secrets and fight unending wars.

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Faction- Seekers of the Shining Collective

The Seekers are what makes the Collective feared throughout their controlled Sectors. The Seekers' main job is to gather secrets, intelligence, and truth. If there is something to be learned, most likely a Seeker in his white robes will be there asking questions and torturing people to get the answers. 

It is the Seekers job to keep the secrets of the Collective and to make sure everything is running smoothly throughout the Sectors. Most people run at the first sight of a Seeker, No one that gets questioned by a Seeker has lived to tell the tale.

No one is safe from the Seekers if they feel questions need to be asked, not even other Factions of the Collective. 

The Seekers distrust A.I. and are very suspicious of outsiders. Their leader, Ike Keelan aka Razor, rules the Seekers with an iron fist. Everyone in the Collectives Domain is afraid of this man, even the leaders of the Collective.

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[Begin a Session: Influential character or faction is introduced or given new detail +1 momentum (3)]

"So, tell me, Magnus, what did you plan on doing with the artifact if you were able to steal it from the Watchdogs?" Ike said as he picked up a pair of pliers from the table and turned towards Magnus.

Magnus was chained to a table; bloody scars crisscrossed his chest and arms. His left eye was swollen shut as blood dripped from his mouth. A Watchdog was standing in the corner of the room watching Ike with interest, his sawed-off shotgun in hand in case Magnus broke free.

"I told you, I wasn't trying to steal anything," Magnus said as he spat some blood from his lips.

"I don't believe you Magnus, and that's too bad," Ike said as he grabbed Magnus's thumbnail with the pliers. 

Magnus began to struggle but the chains held him tight. A few moments later, Magnus began to howl as Ike slowly pulled the thumbnail off.

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It was about an hour before sunrise as I sat on top of the rise overlooking the camp. It was going to be tough, but I think I can get to the caged area and take care of the guard before the patrolling guard came back around the camp. I just hope that Magnus is in the cage.

There is a central tent in the camp that stood before an entrance into a rocky hill. I assume that leads down to the structure that was found by the miners. I'm betting most of the people are down there.

The tent probably held whoever was in charge and Lucas. If I'm lucky.

[Face Danger +shadow: 6+2+0=8 vs 8|6 Weak Hit: you succeed, but not without a cost. Make a suffer move (-1). Endure Stress -1 Spirit (4) rolled 2+4=6 vs 6|3: Weak hit, press on]

I wasn't very good at sneaking around, I preferred to tackle my problems head on. Sneaking about was very stressful, especially when you have two left feet and knock into things.

As I made my way down to the cage I slipped on a bunch of rocks. The guard at the cage turned to look but I was able to flatten myself against a rock so he wouldn't see me. The sweat dripped down my face as I held my breath. After a few moments the guard went back to being bored as he leaned against the cage door. 

[Battle. +iron: 6+4+0=10 vs 9|7 Strong Hit, you achieve your objective unconditionally. +2 momentum (5)]

I was able to sneak up to the guard and take him out quietly without arousing any suspicion. I quickly searched his body looking for the keys that would open the cage.

[Secure an advantage +wits: 6+3+0=9 vs 10|1: Weak Hit, +2 momentum (7)]

[Ask the oracle: Is Magnus in the cage? 50/50: Ask the Oracle: Yes]

I unlocked the door to the cage and dragged the guard inside as I looked around. there were three people sleeping inside. I checked each one and saw Magnus, he wasn't looking too good. 

I put my hand over his mouth and woke him up, my finger was over my mouth making a shushing motion. He nodded so I took my hand away from his mouth.

"Your wife hired me to find you." I whispered. "We need to leave."

[Reach a milestone in finding Magnus. (8 boxes)]

[Does Magnus want to leave? Making it Unlikely: Ask the Oracle: No]

"I can't. I need to get that Artifact they found in the vault." Magnus said.

Sigh "Why? What is so important about it?"

"When I was mining, I found evidence of Remnants activity right before they closed off the mines and kicked us all out. I think that Artifact is a key to unlocking the inner sanctum of the vault. If there is Remnants inside, and if they let them loose." Magnus whispered.

"Okay, listen. Your wife wants you back home. I vowed on iron to find you and bring you back if possible. Just go home. I'll make sure this artifact is taken care of."

[Compel +heart: 1+3+0=4 vs 10|10 Miss with Match: On a miss, they refuse or make a demand that costs you greatly. Pay the Price.]

"I already told you, I'm not leaving without the Artifact." Magnus said in hushed tones.

"I thought you said you didn't want the Artifact, Magnus?" Ike said, standing next to the door of the cage with two Watchdogs holding their sawed-off shotguns. "Who's your friend?" 

"Shit." Magnus said as he dove for the guard's sawed-off shotgun that was laying on the ground just as one of the guards fired.

[Face Danger: +edge: 6+2+0=8 vs 9|2: Weak Hit.: -1 health (4)]

[Endure Harm +Health: 2+4+0=6 vs 5|3: Strong Hit: Embrace the pain +1 momentum (8)]

I tried to dive in the opposite direction of Magnus but the blast from the shotgun hit me right in the side, knocking the wind out of me for a moment. It was a good thing the Watchdogs didn't use lethal ammunition. 

As I hit the ground, I rolled and got to my feet and closed in on the Watchdog blocking the door.

[Enter the Fray (Dangerous): +iron: 3+4+0=7 vs 2|1: Strong Hit. In control. +2 momentum (10)]

[I figured since Magnus is an Ironsworn, I was going to treat him like a companion with +3 Health for this fight.]

[Gain Ground +Iron: 1+4+1(Brawler)=6 vs 5|1: Strong Hit. Mark progress (2 boxes) +1 next move. +1 momentum for Brawler, already at 10]

I swept the legs of the guard blocking the door and leapt over him near Ike. I have to give it to the guy; he is pretty quick on his feet as he dodged away from me and unsheathed a wicked looking dagger from his hip.

"I haven't had the pleasure of meeting you yet stranger, I will enjoy talking to you afterwards." Ike said grinning.

[Ask the Oracle: Is Lucas a loyal Collective employee? Gave it likely: Ask the Oracle: Yes]

[strike +iron +1 from gain ground. 6+4+1=10(can't go higher) vs 3|5: Strong Hit: mark progress twice (6 boxes). You dominate your foe and stay in control.]

I gave two quick jabs to Ike's face, knocking him back a few feet while Magnus took a shot with his shotgun, hitting the Watchdog in the face and knocking him out of the fight.

"I'm going to use that dagger and kill you with it." I said as I circled Ike.

[Gain Ground +iron +Brawler: 4+4+1=9 vs 8|5: Strong Hit: Stay in control. Mark Progress (8 boxes), +1 next move]

Ike lunged with his dagger, and I waited until the last minute before dodging out of the way. My hand reached out and grabbed Ike's wrist, twisting it hard and making him drop the dagger.

Magnus shot the Watchdog on the ground, knocking him out of commission.

[Strike +iron +1 gain ground: 6+4+1=10 vs 9|1: Mark 2 progress (10 boxes)

[Progress Roll: Ike and 2 Watchdogs fight.: Strong Hit = 10 vs 6 | 5 you prevail. Take +1 momentum. (Already at 10]

I picked up the dagger and thrust it hard into Ike's side, killing him instantly. As I looked around, I heard a hoverbike's engine leaving the area. I turned to look in the direction of the sound but couldn't really see much in the dark except a lone light from a hoverbike zipping away from the encampment.

Magnus rushed into the main tent and came out a moment later.

"The Artifact is gone." Magnus said.

"I know where it is." I said as I pointed to the light fading in the distance. "Lucas Sayer has it. He is a Precursor expert for the Collective. He has a ship at the Starport. I assume he is heading there."

[I'm starting a Scene Challenge (formidable) to try and catch Lucas before he escapes. When the clock reaches zero Lucas was able to get away from Magnus and Gavel. The clock has 6 ticks.]

[Face Danger +wits: 5+3+0=8 vs 6|2 Strong Hit: you are successful. Envision how you gain ground, and mark one box of progress (1) on the formidable challenge]

Magnus and I hopped on the last two hoverbikes and took off after Lucas. We were desperate for time since he had a little bit of a head start but I knew my way around hoverbikes, been using them my whole life. I knew a couple of tricks and was able to get up to top speed in no time.

[Face Danger +edge: 1+2+0=3 vs 8|4 Miss Burned Momentum (2): Strong Hit: Mark Progress (2)]

We were gaining ground slowly, Lucas wasn't a hoverbike rider. He was used to comfortable rovers and starships. He was an academic. I can see him now in the distance.

[Secure an Advantage +wits: 2+3+0=5 vs 7|7: Miss with a match. Fill 2 clock ticks (4), pay the price]

We zipped over a low outcropping of rocks and Magnus's hoverbike scraped against something and began to smoke. I looked back as Magnus began losing speed. He motioned for me to keep going as his hoverbike stopped.

[Face Danger +wits: 3+3+0=6 vs 6|2: Weak Hit: you are successful and mark progress (3), but also encounter a minor complication or setback. Envision what happens and fill a clock segment (3)]

I lost sight of Lucas as the sun rose above the horizon in front of me, blinding me for a few moments before my helmet viewscreen polarized. I assume the same happened to Lucas.

[Face Danger +wits: 3+3+0=6 vs 6|5: Weak Hit: you are successful and mark progress (4), but also encounter a minor complication or setback. Envision what happens and fill a clock segment (2)]

I was hours into this chase across the planetside and my arms were sore, as well as my whole body. I was in better shape than Lucas, so he must've been in pain at this speed we were traveling. I had to give it to him though. He's one tough son of a bitch.

[Face Danger +wits: 3+3+0=6 vs 6|5: Weak Hit: you are successful and mark progress (5), but also encounter a minor complication or setback. Envision what happens and fill a clock segment (1)]

I was gaining ground slowly by each passing minute and as I watched Lucas, I saw him veer to the left. I gunned it and noticed up ahead a large crater. I decided to take a chance.

[Face Danger +wits: 4+3+0=7 vs 4|2: Strong Hit: you are successful and mark progress (6)]

I didn't hesitate and flew into the crater. Here was my chance to cut him off on the other side, as long as I didn't fall off the hoverbike. Racing at this speed down the side of a crater wasn't too bright.

[Face Danger +wits: 6+3+0=9 vs 8|6: Strong Hit: you are successful and mark progress (7)]

I could see Lucas looking down at me from the top of the crater as I picked up speed and flew past him. 

[Face Danger +wits: 4+3+0=7 vs 2|6: Strong Hit: you are successful and mark progress (8)]

[Progress Roll: Catch Lucas before he escapes: Strong Hit = 8 vs 4 | 6]

I was able to top the rise of the other side of the crater before Lucas got to me. I got off the hoverbike and pulled out my blaster and aimed it at him as he approached. He began to slow down and stopped a few feet away from me.

"It's over Lucas. Give me the Artifact." I said.

[compel +iron: 2+4+0=6 vs 2|1: Strong hit: they’ll do what you want or agree to your conditions. Take +1 momentum (3)]

Lucas was out of breath, he just nodded as he reached into the storage compartment of the hoverbike and handed me a small disk about the size of my hand. I took it and looked it over. It had strange markings on one side, and it was made out of a metal I couldn't recognize. 

"You know the Collective will look for that, don't you?" Lucas said as he took a few deep breaths.

I nodded. "I know. Did you find out what this is?"

[Ask the oracle. Does this Artifact open the door to the Precursor inner vault? Gave it a Likely Chance: Ask the Oracle: Yes]

"It is a key of sorts. According to the diagrams they showed me, it will open a door in the Precursor vault they found. My guess is the door to the Inner Sanctum." Lucas said as he watched me.

I put away my gun and slipped the Artifact in my pocket.

"I'm not going to hurt you Lucas, you're just doing your job. But you know I can't let the Collective open that vault. Magnus found Remnant activity within the mines."

"I know. I saw it as well while looking around down there." Lucas said as he got off the hoverbike.

"So why bring it to them?" I asked, curious.

"Because it's my job. Nothing more Gavel. I know people have been treated poorly by the Collective, but I've been treated well. They give me everything I need and could ever want. I have a family that depends on me."

I nodded. "Just tell them when you got to the camp everyone was already dead. They won't suspect you of anything. You'll be fine. Just don't mention my involvement."

[Test your relationship +heart: 3+3+1=7 vs 4|3: Strong Hit: Develop your relationship. Mark progress (3 boxes)]

Lucas thought about it for a few minutes before nodding. "If it, wasn't you for I would've been found dead on this planet. I'll keep you out of it."

I shook Lucas's hand before he hopped on the hoverbike and took off. It was getting late, so I decided to set up a campfire and have some food. I figured I'd head out in the morning.

About an hour later, Magnus pulled up next to my campfire and got off the hoverbike, breathing hard. His body was covered in grease.

"Did you get it?" Magnus asked.

"Yup." Is all I said as I ate some rations, I keep handy.

Magnus sat down by the fire and smiled. "Are you going to give it to me?"

[Make a connection with Magnus +heart: 5+3+0=8 vs 10|2: Weak Hit: you create a connection. Give them a role and rank. Whenever your connection aids you on a move closely associated with their role, add +1 and take +1 momentum on a hit, but this connection comes with a complication or cost.]

"Nope." I said. 

Magnus nodded. "Swear to me you'll keep it safe."

[Swear an iron vow: I will keep the Artifact out of the Collectives hands. (Troublesome) +heart 6+3+1= 10 vs 8|2: Strong Hit:  you are emboldened, and it is clear what you must do next. Take +2 momentum (5)]

I took out my iron necklace. "I swear on Iron that I will keep the Artifact out of the Collectives hands." 

Magnus smiled and shook my hand. "Thank you, Gavel."

"Now go home to your wife. She's worried about you."

"I will. Thanks Gavel." Magnus said as he drifted off to sleep.

[Reach a milestone on my vow to find and bring Magnus home (10 boxes)]

[Progress Roll: find out what happened to Magnus Sato and bring him back if possible: Strong Hit with a match = 10 vs 8 | 8 Mark 2 ticks on your legacies track. With the match I'm going to mark a full box instead]

[End of scene stats: Momentum 5, Health 4, Spirit 4, Supply 5. I'm taking the third ability in Brawler.]

Chapter 2: Into the darkness

 

Surface of Artemis

Truths-Laws

Much of the settled domains are a lawless frontier. Criminal factions and corrupt leaders often hold sway. Powers rise and fall in the Forge, so any authority is fleeting. In the end, we must fend for ourselves. A few communities are bastions of successful autonomy, but many are corrupted or preyed upon by petty despots, criminals, and raiders.

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Faction-Watchdogs of the Shining Collective

The Watchdogs are the backbone of the Collective, they are responsible for keeping the peace and enforcing the Collective's wishes to the people that live within the Collective's domain. 

They can be spotted wearing navy blue outfits with the logo of the Collective on the right breast. They can always be seen carrying their favored weapon, a sawed-off shotgun filled with non-lethal ammunition. 

They prefer to subdue any that cause unrest within the Collective's domain and are not above torture to get answers and find any collaborators. The leader of the Watchdogs is a man that goes by the name, Nails. Nothing else is really known about him. The public hasn't seen him, but the Watchdogs fear him. 

The Watchdogs are brutal and corrupt. Most people tend to shy away when they see a Watchdog coming for fear, they will get pulled in for questioning for no reason. 

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[Begin a Session Move: Unexpected peril lies ahead or lurks just out of view. Descriptor: Foreboding Focus: Transportation]

I slapped Brick a few times to get his attention.

"What do you know about Magnus? I need answers." I said as I held him against the bar, my fist in his face.

[Gather Information Rolled +Wits +sleuth's third challenge die: 6+3+0=9 vs 10|6|3. Strong Hit. you discover something helpful and specific. The path you must follow or action you must take to make progress is made clear. Envision what you learn. Then, take +2 momentum (already 10)]

"Alright, alright. Let me go and I'll talk." Brick said so I decided to let him go. 

Brick sat on a chair and rubbed his jaw. "I guess you didn't cheat in that fight, huh. Magnus works with a guy I know; his name is Digger. Digger was talking about the most recent mining site that the Collective is using. After many weeks of digging at the new site, a structure was found underground. The Watchdogs shut the site down immediately and made it off-limits. Magnus started poking around and asking questions. That's all I know."

"Where can I find Digger?" 

"That's the thing. I haven't heard from him since. I've tried contacting him a few times, but he never returned my messages. He doesn't live that far from here."

[Reached a milestone for my vow. Marked 2 boxes (2)]

Brick gave me the address to Digger's shack and a description of the man. 

"I'll be seeing you around, Gavel." Brick said with a grin.

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

[Secure an Advantage. Rolled +wits: Weak hit .5+3+0=8 vs 8|4 Burned Momentum Strong hit. +2 momentum (4) +1 next move. You are successful.]

As I left the Union, I noticed Brick's goon buddies a few buildings away watching me. They were talking amongst themselves but at this distance I couldn't hear what they were saying. Knowing their type, they were probably thinking of the best time to jump me because of the beatdown I gave Brick. 

I gave a wave and hopped on my Hoverbike and hit the ignition as they watched me. I gave a wave and sped past them, watching them out of the corner of my eye. One of the goons began laughing as he made a gesture with his hands, kind of like a mushroom cloud expanding. 

I looked down and noticed a red-light blinking on the Hoverbike. I tried to stop but nothing happened as the red light began blinking faster.

[Face Danger. Rolled +edge: 6+2+1=9 vs 6|4 Strong Hit: You are successful +1 momentum (5)]

I jumped off the Hoverbike and as I hit the ground I tucked and rolled. A moment later the Hoverbike exploded, sending shards of metal in all directions. I barely rolled out of the way as a fiery piece of metal landed by my feet. 

I turned to look for the goons, but they were nowhere to be found. I got up and dusted myself off as I looked around the street. It amazed me that no one came out to investigate the cause of the explosion. 

"Alcar is going to be pissed," I said as I began walking to Digger's place.

Lucky for me, Digger's place wasn't too far from where I was. I had to keep my eyes and ears open around these parts. I guess Brick and his buddies weren't happy with the way I kicked his ass without breaking a sweat.

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

This part of town wasn't the greatest, garbage lay in the streets and people kept to themselves. I went to talk to one of Digger's neighbors, but he ran inside his shack and slammed the door.

Digger's shack was small by normal standards. The roof looked like it had seen better days and the walls were almost rusted through. The aluminum door barely closed all the way.

 As I got closer to the door, I noticed it was open a bit. Not taking any chances, I pulled my piece and entered the shack slowly.

The inside of Digger's shack was tossed. Clothes and broken furniture were scattered throughout the place. It looked like someone was after something. I doubt I would find anything in this place, but I had to give it a shot. This was my only lead for the moment.

[Gather Information +wits Rolled extra challenge die for Sleuth: 4+3+0=7 vs 9|6|10. Weak Hit. the information provides new insight, but also complicates your quest. Envision what you discover. Then, take +1 momentum. (6)]

[Story Clue Oracle (98): Descriptor (27) Dead Focus (20) Creature]

Looking through the mess of a shack I didn't really find anything useful, a bunch of messages from a sister was the only real thing of note. Otherwise, it was just clothes and various junk.

As I went into the bedroom, I found Digger. Or at least I think it was Digger. Lying face down on the bed with multiple stab wounds in the back was a man. He fit the description of Digger that Brick gave me. 

Sigh "Nothing's ever easy" I mumbled as I searched the body.

[Gather Information +wits Rolled extra challenge die for Sleuth: 2+3+0=5 vs 2|2|5. Strong Hit with Match. you discover something helpful and specific. The path you must follow or action you must take to make progress is made clear. Envision what you learn. Then, take +2 momentum. (8)]

[Story Clue Oracle (70): Leads to a distant or unfamiliar place]

Whoever tossed the place wasn't a professional. In a matter of moments, I found a scrap of paper in Digger's shoe. You always check the shoes. People hide things in there all the time. The paper had a set of coordinates on it leading outside of town.

"It looks like I need transportation," I mumbled.

[reached a milestone, marked 1 progress (4boxes)]

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

[Check Gear +supply: 4+5+0=9 vs 4|3. Strong Hit: you have it and are ready to act. Take +1 momentum. (9)]

It took me a while, but I was able to procure another Hoverbike from a person I knew that owed me a favor. I just hope I don't get this one destroyed. I make a good living doing what I do but having to buy two hoverbikes will no doubt put me back quite a bit.

[Undertake an Expedition (troublesome) +wits: 3+3+0=6 vs 2|7: Weak Hit: mark progress (3 boxes) Face a peril at the waypoint: Important device fails or malfunctions.]

The terrain of Artemis is treacherous at best, eons of asteroid impacts scarred the planet's surface and made travel hazardous for everyone that leaves the settlement. Even with the best equipment one doesn't leave Kepler Colony if they don't have to. 

Unfortunately, my job makes me have to do stupid things, and today was one of those. The sun was beginning to set over the planet when I came atop a rise that allowed to me to see a great distance. 

As I sat on the hoverbike admiring the view, the hoverbike began to sputter before the engine cut out. I tried to start it a few times, but nothing happened.

"Frak, are you kidding me?" I said as I got off the bike

[Repair +wits: 4+3+0=7 vs 5|2: Strong hit, 3 repair points. Cost 3 to fix the bike]

It was a good thing I knew my way around hoverbikes, and I was able to fix the problem, but it cost me a lot of time, and now the sunset, and it was pitch black on Artemis at night. 

There was no point in continuing so I decided to make camp for the night and sleep.

As the sun began to rise, I continued on towards my destination. 

[Undertake an Expedition +wits. 5+3+0=8 vs 3|3: Strong hit with a match. Mark progress (6 boxes) Opportunity: (91) Plea for help from a potential benefactor]

As I was cruising, I saw smoke rising in the distance and decided to investigate. Being stranded out here was the equivalent of a death sentence. 

As I got closer, I saw a man waving his arms in the air as he stood next to a beat-up old Rover with smoke pouring out of the engine. The man was wearing an older style environmental suit, his shoulder-length hair was unkempt, and his long beard was scraggly looking. 

"Hey there, can you help me?" The man said as I pulled up next to him and shut off the hoverbike.

[Does this man know Magnus? Given that I had a strong hit with a match I am giving this an almost certain chance: Ask the Oracle: No]

"I can try," I said as I took a look at the smoking engine.

"I appreciate the help, friend. My name's Lucas Sayer, but people call me Angler." Lucas said as he looked over my shoulder.

"Gavel," I replied as I pulled out some tools from my kit and began working on the engine.

"Pleasure to meet you, Gavel. I'm glad you came along. I was supposed to be somewhere yesterday but this piece of crap they gave me at the spaceport broke down."

"What do you do if I may ask?"

"I'm a researcher for the Collective," Lucas said as I was able to find what was wrong with the engine and began repairing it.

[repair +wits: 4+3+0=7 vs 7|6: Weak hit. Burned 9 momentum. reset to 2:  Strong Hit gain 3 repair points, cost 3 to fix the rover.]

I stopped working on the engine and looked at Lucas.

"What kind of research do you do?" I asked.

Lucas sat on the ground leaning against one of the tires.

"I research Precursor technology and authenticate it if need be," Lucas said as he brushed the hair out of his eyes.

"Precursor tech? What are you doing here? There are no vaults on Artemis that I'm aware of." I said as I continued working on the engine. "Did someone find one or something?"

[Compel +heart: 5+3+0=8 vs 6|5: Strong hit: they’ll do what you want or agree to your conditions. Take +1 momentum (3)]

"Well, I shouldn't be telling you this but since you're helping me out with that piece of crap rover they gave me, it's the least I can do. While mining at a new site about a month ago, the miners came across a structure buried underground. The Watchdogs immediately closed the area off and sent everyone away before sending in a crew to determine what was in the structure. They supposedly found some Precursor artifacts with great power, so they sent for me to authenticate that they were indeed Precursor tech."

Lucas got up and walked over to where he had his stuff on the ground and grabbed his handcomp before walking back to me and showing me a map of Artemis. By the looks of things, we weren't that far away from where he was supposed to go, or where my coordinates were leading me.

"What is that place marked on the map?"

"That is where I am supposed to meet the Watchdog commander and authenticate the artifact. According to this, we are about 6 hours away from the camp." Lucas said before putting the handcomp away again.

I closed the hood of the rover and put away my stuff. 

"Is it fixed?" Lucas asked.

"You're good to go," I spoke. "But why didn't the Watchdogs send someone to pick you up? I figured if you had an important job to do for them, they would've taken care of you."

"About a week ago some workers tried to break into the camp and steal the artifacts that were found. They've been busy with them and security." Lucas said as he pulled out a credit chip. "Let me repay you somehow." 

"No need my friend. I wouldn't want to get stranded out here. It was my pleasure."

[Make a connection. +heart: 5+3+0=8 vs 2|10: Weak hit, as above, but this connection comes with a complication or cost. Envision what they reveal or demand. Since Gavel fixed his rover, I'm going to call it even.]

[Mark a milestone (6 boxes)]

Lucas shook my hand before he hopped in his rover and drove away. I decided to make camp. I didn't want Lucas to think I was following him. I'll leave later on so I arrive a few hours before sunrise.

[Undertake an Expedition +wits: 6+3+0=9 vs 9|7: Weak Hit: weak hit, as above, but this progress costs you. Suffer costs en route: Make a suffer move (-2) Costs me 2 momentum (1) for delays. Mark Progress (9 boxes)]

[Progress Roll: Find the spot of the coordinates: Strong Hit with match= 9 vs 7 | 7 strong hits, you reach your destination or complete your survey. Mark a reward on your discovery's legacy track per expedition’s rank: troublesome=1 tick]

I had to park the hoverbike about a mile away and make the rest of the way on foot. It took me longer to get there than expected but I finally did manage to get a good vantage point above the camp without being seen. 

As I looked down at the camp, I could see the rover Lucas used parked next to three hoverbikes. The camp was quiet at this hour, but the Watchdogs still had a person patrolling around the camp. 

I saw a caged area with a guard posted out front. Inside the cage were four men. I assume the workers were caught trying to steal the artifacts. I couldn't tell if Magnus was one of the prisoners, but I was going to find out.

[End of session move: Is Magnus a prisoner in this camp? Will Gavel be able to free him if he is there? We will find out next time +1 momentum (2)]

[end of session stats: Momentum (2), Health 5, Spirit 5, Supply 5, Vow to find Magnus and bring him back (6 boxes)]

Chapter 1: Rumble in the Union

Artemis 

Population: 3987

Rocky planet in the Tsze System

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

Truths-Communities

Few survived the journey to the Forge, and we are scattered to the winds in this perilous place. Our settlements are often small, starved for resources, and on the brink of ruin. Hundreds of far-flung settlements are lost and isolated within the untamed chaos of this galaxy, and we do not know their fate. 

There are a few prosperous sectors that are run by one of the five Founder Clans. We have a tentative foothold in this galaxy. Each of the five Founder Clans honors the name and legacy of a leader who guided their people in the chaotic time after the Exodus. Vast reaches of the settled domains are claimed by the clans, and territorial skirmishes are common.

The Leaders of these Clans hoard resources and technology and dole them out to their people as they see fit. 

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

The Forgotten Oasis Sector

Ruled by The Shining Collective

The Shining Collective is one of the Founding Clans. Its founder, Donald Avery, guided his people after the exodus and taught them hard work and discipline. The Collective's main sphere of influence is Mining, Medicine, and Technology. After they reached the Forge, the Collective formed many smaller factions to look over day-to-day operations within the Sectors they controlled. 

Donald Avery was an honorable man but during the centuries, the way of life he envisioned for his people became corrupted. The leadership that runs the Collective now runs their sectors through fear and intimidation. They withhold resources from their people and force them into slave labor. Many of the people living within the Collective Sectors fear for their lives and do as they are told so as to not attract the attention of the Watchdogs of the Shining Collective, the security forces of the Collective. 

Many cannot afford to book passages away from the Collective Sectors because they are usually poor. Most of the daily necessities of life are given to the people within the Collective's Domain as a way of keeping them dependent on the Collective but pay within the Domain is next to nothing. 

Old laws show that disputes were resolved through formal duels, but no one really does that anymore due to the Watchdogs looking over everyone's shoulders. People that are disloyal to the Collective supposedly get banished from their Domain, but most people think they are taken away and executed.

The Collective keeps exhaustive records of everything, hidden in a secret location. Leaders of each smaller faction within the Collective have access to parts of these records and if they need more access, they need to contact the Collective for permission.

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

[Begin a Session: Flashback reveals an aspect of your background or nature. +1 momentum (3)]

[Brawler Asset]

The Kepler Colony Rec center was jammed packed with colonist from all over. The annual boxing tournament was underway, a weekend of skill and violence that everyone looked forward to each year.

The final bout of the tournament was between Gavel and Badger. The bout has just finished the 9th round and both fighters were bleeding and gasping for breath in their corners. The crowd was cheering as the bookies made their way through the crowd getting final bets for the last round.

"Ladies and Gentlemen, the final round of the Annual Kepler Colony boxing tournament is about to begin. Will our 8-time champion, Gavel defend his title, or will he lose to the newcomer Badger?" The announcer said as the two boxers made their way to the center of the ring to touch gloves.

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

Kepler Colony was one of the prosperous colonies within the Forge. With a population of 3987, it was definitely one of the largest colonies. Kepler is located on Artemis, a rocky planet that orbits a bright burning yellow star named Tsze. 

A rugged planet scarred by eons of destructive asteroid impacts made the atmosphere of Artemis marginal at best but with the proper precautions, one could easily survive. Massive, jagged mountains could be observed from space and the planet was overrun with life. Steam-heated caves offered protection from the cold nights of Artemis.

Kepler colony was built on Artemis due to the mining opportunities it held. The colony was built from random scrap and wood that the original settlers scraped together from their ships, giving it a rustic look. 

There was no real law in Kepler Colony. The town was run by a large mining corporation named Avery Mining Corp. The owner, Sean Avery, had private security that made people do as they were told and work in the mines as was required.

During people's off-hours, they spent a lot of time in the Saloons around town or at home. There is a main hub where people gathered to trade their wares and where the spaceport is located. A select few had ships but most of the population were stuck on Kepler.

Most people tended to themselves and kept their heads down and didn't get involved in any problems that happened around town. They didn't want to attract the attention of Avery's thugs. 

There were a few people that did get involved though for the right price. 

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

The noon-day sun was blistering this time of year on Artemis, but I didn't mind it. I was sitting in front of my small ramshackle office smoking a stim while people watching when a young-looking woman, with tattoos up and down her arms, walked towards me.

"Are you Gavel?" The woman asked as she looked me up and down.

I nodded.

"Are you a god-fearing man Mr. Gavel?" She asked as she put her hands on her hips and watched me. 

I sighed as I threw the stim in the can next to my door.

"I don't know many that believe in the gods anymore miss?"

"Mrs. Kiri Sato." 

"Okay, Mrs. Sato. To answer your question, no, I am not a god-fearing man. The gods left us hundreds of years ago. I look out for myself. How may I help you?" I said as I got up and walked into my office, gesturing for her to follow me.

I had a small office right off of the main street, a large filing cabinet stood in the corner of the room. A small couch was along one wall and in the other corner was a desk with a few chairs in front of it. Hanging behind my desk were my boxing gloves. 

"So, what brings you to me?" I ask as I sit behind my desk. 

"My husband, Magnus, has been missing for two weeks now," Kiri said as she sat in the seat and leaned forward on the desk. "I need you to find him for me."

Narrator: Ever since I was a little boy my father always told me that Gavel men had a special intuition about people and their intentions and motives. He always told me I should trust my gut. I decided to see what my gut said about this Mrs. Sato.

[Empath. Rolling +heart; Weak Hit: 3 + 3 + 0 = 6 vs 10 | 4. The visions are murky; take +1 momentum]

As I studied Mrs. Sato, I couldn't quite get a read on her intentions, so I decided I'd give her the benefit of the doubt, for now. 

"He would never just run off without me. We tell each other everything and hide nothing." She spoke.

"Where does Magnus work?" I asked.

 

"He works for Avery Mining Corp for the last nine years in the Mica mines. He is a very skilled miner. Never been injured, always does as he is told. And he is Ironsworn Mr. Gavel." She said as she leaned back in her seat.

"Ironsworn huh. That changes things a bit." I spoke. 

"How so?"

"Ironsworn are fated to lead very challenging and difficult lives. We go about our lives and try to help others, but fate always intervenes and makes things a bit more difficult for us. Throws us a curve ball every now and then. Next thing you know things are spiraling out of control. I'll help you, Mrs. Sato."

I pulled out the piece of iron I keep on a necklace from the Exodus ship, Luminous Sorrow, my ancestors traveled on. 

"On this iron, I swear to find out what happened to your husband, Magnus and bring him back if at all possible," I swore.

[Swear an Iron vow (Dangerous) To find out what happened to Magnus Sato and bring him back if possible: Roll +heart: Strong Hit: 4 + 3 + 0 = 7 vs 6|5. +2 momentum (6)]

"Thank you, Mr. Gavel. Here's everything I could think of about my husband's habits, co-workers, hangouts, and place of business." Mrs. Sato said as she handed me a datachip.

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

A while back my neighbor Alcar Kazzim, one of the handful of guides on Kepler Colony, and I decided to split the cost of a Hoverbike. We figured since both of our jobs were spotty it didn't make sense to buy one, so we share the bike. Most of the time it is available when I need it and today was one of those days.

[Cheak Gear. Roll +supply: Strong Hit: 2+5+0=7 vs 6 |1. On a strong hit, you have it, and are ready to act. Take +1 momentum (7)]

I decided to make my way to the laborer's district and check-in at one of the saloons that Magnus liked to frequent. maybe someone there might have any information about Magnus's doings over the last week.

The Union was what people would call a dive bar. Rough-looking clientele watched me as I made my way to the bar. A large man, covered in tattoos, was wiping down the bar with a dirty rag.

"My name's Gavel. I'm a Private Investigator looking for a man named Magnus Sato. Ever hear of him?" I said loud enough for people to hear me.

[Ask the Oracle: Does anyone here know of Tony? Gave it a 50/50: Yes]

[Compel. rolled +heart: Weak Hit: 4+3+0=7 vs 10|6. +1 momentum (8) you succeed but at a cost]

"Yeah, I know Magnus." A man said as he walked towards me. 

He was a good 1/2 a foot taller than me and looked to be a laborer, he was built like a brick wall. I noticed scars lining his face and arms as he got closer to me. A large knife hung at his side. A few of the people behind him were grinning.

"I lost money on you during that fight against Badger. So, I'm thinking you owe me some payback. I think you cheated to win that match." The brick wall said as he took off his jacket and threw it behind him to one of his buddies.

Sigh. "Is this really necessary?" I said as I slipped off my duster and put it on a stool.

The man didn't bother responding and charged me, his arms spread wide like he was going to try and tackle me.

[Enter the Fray. Dangerous fight. Rolled +Iron.: Weak Hit, 4+4+0=8 vs 10|7. I'm in control]

I easily stepped to the side as the man charged me. I've fought my whole life and was pretty good and close-quarter combat. That was one of the first things my dad taught me when I was able to stand, how to defend myself. I wasn't a 10-time boxing champion because of luck.

[Gain Ground. Rolled +iron, +brawler: Weak Hit: 5+4+1=10 vs 10|9 +1 momentum (brawler 9), Mark progress (2 boxes), stay in control]

As the man passed me by a tripped him and he slammed into the bar headfirst. With a growl, he got to his feet and turned but I was ready for him.

[Gain Ground. Rolled +iron, +brawler: Strong Hit: 6+4+1=10 vs 6|9 +1 momentum (brawler 10), Mark progress (4 boxes), +1 next move. stay in control]

He threw a punch at me but being so large he was pretty slow, I was able to block it without a problem and gave him two left jabs to the face, knocking out some teeth in the process.

[Strike: Rolled +iron: Strong Hit: 4+4+1=9 vs 7|2. Mark progress twice (8 boxes) and dominate your foe. Stay in control.]

[Progress Roll: Fighting the big guy: Weak Hit = 8 vs 9 | 3. Others won’t forget: You are marked for vengeance]

As the man tried to regain his footing, I gave two more quick jabs to the face before hitting him with a powerful uppercut, knocking him to the ground.

His friends looked down at Brick on the ground in shock before looking up at me. 

"Is this going to continue?" I asked calmly.

They held up their hands in mock surrender and went back to their tables as I got some water from the bartender and dumped it on Brick's face, waking him up.

[End of scene stats. Momentum 10, Health 5, Spirit 5, Supply 5]