It's been a long road. Two long years of applications, testing, interviews, panels, and all other manner of bureaucratic nonsense. But finally, the final selections have been made and the finalists for the great survey mission have been chosen.
Rowan Lammermuir, a young student of summoning from the prestigious Royal Mugen Institute.
Arkian, a geomancer trained by the elves with a long history of civil service on the Moon and an extensive background in geology.
Christopher Dunham, a computer genius with a thorough knowledge of ancient Lunarian and a (slightly dubious) expertise in computer security.
Maya Kitagawa, a well-traveled half-elven botanist with a passion for plants in all their forms.
And Michael Watson, a late addition - a young student of Silver Millenium archaeology, added to the survey team at a special request of the head of archaeology at New Denver University.
The five have been summoned to the Royal Palace in the Lunar capital from their homes across the planet, for an audience with the Queen as well as to receive the details of their mission. And on March 23rd, they begin to arrive at the palace gates for their meeting.
Dressed in formal (but comfortable) robes of dark forest green, a slight, pale young woman with coppery red hair walks across the plaza before the palace, coming from the subway station she used to reach this place from her own home in the capitol.
Approaching the guards on duty at the palace gates, she gives them a tentative smile. "Hello, I'm Rowan Lammermuir, Summoner Second Class, Fi-" she pauses, blushing, "Third Category, Unlimited." She ducks her head in a bow, presenting a business card detailing what she just said along with a few other letters on her various credentials. "I have an appointment?" she adds, meekly.
"Of course, Ms. Lammermuir," the guard at the gate replies, giving the woman a slight smile. "You're the first of the team to arrive - if you'll just follow me, I'll escort you up to the waiting room - her Majesty will be meeting with all of you in the throne room today."
He steps out of his booth, waiting for Rowan's affirmation.
"Of course, thank you," Rowan agrees, falling in step with the guard. "What's the Queen like in person?" she asks, making conversation. "I've never actually met her."
The guard smiles. "A lot friendlier than you'd expect, actually. She actually stopped to talk to me while I was still new - I was surprised. She even knew my name, although I can't figure out for the life of me how."
As the two converse, the guard leads Rowan on a long, winding path through the hallways of the Royal Palace - the hallways mostly of polished white marble and lavishly decorated with various paintings and sculptures. About ten minutes' walk brings the pair to a small sitting room a short distance from the throne room, with a number of comfortable antique chairs arranged around the walls.
"If you'll just wait here, Ms. Lammermuir, the audience will start as soon as the other members of the team arrive," the guard says, giving Rowan a bow. "It was nice meeting you - and good luck!"
With that he turns on his heel, leaving Rowan alone in the sitting room. A small tray of refreshments has been left in the center of the room, presumably for the team members while they wait for the Queen.
"Thank you," Rowan replies as the guard leaves, going to take a seat in one of the chairs, forgoing any refreshments for now.
My, I'm so nervous... she thinks, trying to settle the butterflies in her stomach. I hope I don't blow things, now... Mum would never forgive me if I offended the Queen or something.
Arkian strolls towards the front gates of the palace, clad in a similar style to the woman who just passed in; glad in slightly lighter robes of green, tied together with five buckles in various places, each symbolizing an aspect of his craft; a rock, a flame, a pool, a lightning bolt, and a leaf.
Pulling his green hair out his eyes, he approaches one of the guards, introducing himself.
"Excuse me? My name is Arkian, and I believe I am to attend a meeting at this time.."
The guard in the booth checks a sheet of paper in front of him, scanning it quickly. "Ah, here it is. Welcome to the palace, Master Arkian. You're a bit early, but if you'd care to follow me I can escort you up to the waiting room that's been prepared for you."
With that, the guard steps out of the booth, waiting for Arkian's reply.
Arkian chuckles. "Just Arkian," he says, his hands clutching tightly a rather tall black staff, inscribed with various wounds. "I fear I'm a long way off from such an honorific.. but, oh, yes, a waiting room? Very well."
He moves forward, intent on following the guard.
The guard nods in assent to Arkian, leading the geomancer in through the massive silver doors of the palace. The walk to the waiting room is uneventful; the palace hallways are relatively busy, at least on the route the guard is taking, but most of the officials you see scurrying to and fro pay you little mind. After a fairly lengthy walk - for inside a building at least - the guard takes Arkian into a small sitting room, where a red-haired woman, also in green robes, is sitting.
"There are refreshments on the cart," the guard says helpfully. "Someone will be here to take you to the queen as soon as the other members of your team have arrived."
Arkian gives a short bow. "I see. Thank you," he replies, impressed by the interior design of the palace.
Well, Sho, here I am. I'll certainly come back with a good story to tell you..
Moving over to a seat across from the woman, he plants himself down and gives her a friendly glance.
"Good morning," he says. "I suppose you're here for the same reason I am?"
Dashing round a corner, across the plaza, and up to the guard post, Michael rests for a few moments to catch his breath. After that, he straightens and motions to get the attention of one of the guards.
"Uh, hello? I'm Michael Watson. I think this is where I'm supposed to come? I hope I'm not late."
He holds out a letter for the guard to examine. An astute observer would notice that he doesn't seem quite used to using his left hand for such activities; perhaps he's using it because his right hand appears to be some sort of glossy black stone.
"Oh!" Rowan is startled out of her reverie by the arrival of her companion, glancing up to look him over. "You're on the planetary survey team?" she blurts out, before recalling her manners, "I mean, hello," she stands up and bows hurriedly, presenting a business card like she gave the guard earlier. "I'm Rowan Lammermuir."
Arkian returns the bow, accepting the business card with an amused smile.
"A pleasure, Ms. Lammermuir," he says. "That is indeed why I am here. I'm, uh, Arkian," he continues, sounding faintly embarrased. "Nice to meet you."
His eyes are slightly disconcerting; one green and one blue. However, his tone sounds a little shy.
"Oh, just call me Rowan," the redhead offers, relaxing. "We're going to be co-workers, after all."
Sitting back down, she adds, "I don't suppose you know anything about anyone else who's going to be on the team? I'm nervous enough about meeting the Queen without meeting all my new co-workers at the same time."
Arkian shakes his head as he replies, "No, nothing was disclosed to me.
Meeting the Queen.. I can't wait, for one. My mother told me many stories about her when I was a child, and from everything else I've heard, well.."
He chuckles. "If only a quarter of what I've heard is true, she's quite a remarkable woman. I hope I make a good impression... are my boots polished enough?"
He glances down at his footwear, a worried expression creasing his face.
"I think they're fine," Rowan smiles. "Has your mother met the Queen?" she asks, going on, "My own mum's been nagging at me ever since I reached the final stages of selection for this about how I need to make a really good impression on the Queen if I ever meet her."
Shaking her head, she goes on, "Everyone I've talked to that's actually met her says she's really nice, but... I just can't help feeling nervous."
What if she's really nice to everyone except me?
"I don't know," replies Arkian. "She might have. I think she worked in the palace once, some time ago..
They say a monarch is a mirror of their kingdom, and I believe that that bodes well for us."
"Heh," Rowan chuckles, "That is true."
Deciding to learn a bit about who she'll be working with in the near future, she goes on, "So, what made you sign up for this mission? And what's your specialty?"
"Watson," the guard says with a slight frown - this one a different one from the one who helped Rowan and Arkian. He shuffles through the paperwork inside the booth for almost a full minute, ignoring the proffered letter. "Watson... ah, here we go," he finally says, withdrawing a sheet from a pile next to the door. Glancing at it for a moment, he looks up at Michael a few times before nodding. If he noticed the young archaeologist's hand, he's not commenting on it, at least.
"Everything seems to be in order, Mr. Watson. If you'd follow me?"
"Oh, me? I'm a geomancer," replies Arkian, blushing a little. "Well, an acolyte, anyway. I tried to get into the Lunar University to learn magic, but couldn't, and, well, ended up learning from an elf."
He glances off, away from Rowan. His voice, however, starts to grow in volume, and it's clear he's really excited about what he's going to be doing.
"And I wanted to come, because.. well.. I'm just so interested in seeing other planets! It's a great experiance. I could lie, and say professional interest drives me.. after all, there's surely much to learn on a different world, with a different system, but.."
He shrugs. "I can fly, too. And I'm a geologist, but those aren't really anything special.
How about you? What brought you here?"
Rowan smiles, a little caught up in Arkian's enthusiasm. "I developed a talent for manipulating dimensions in my early teens - surprising, since no one else in my family's ever had a drop of magical talent. I got sent to Mugen so I could learn control before causing some horrible accident," she blushes, well aware of the somewhat dark history surrounding her magical specialty.
"I decided to focus myself on summoning, since, well... it's generally a lot safer than other things I could do, so long as the rules are followed." With a faraway look, she goes on, "After school I got my degrees in Magical Theory and History from the Royal University around the time early selection was going out for this mission..."
Chuckling as she focuses properly on her companion once more, "In all honesty, I'd be content spending the rest of my life researching in a secluded library somewhere, but one of my professors pushed me towards applying. Said I needed to get out there and see things for myself instead of just reading or hearing about them secondhand. And he was right."
Rather enthusiastic, herself, as she concludes, Rowan finishes, "I'm really looking forward to seeing what we can find on the other worlds, among the remnants of the Silver Millenium."
"I couldn't survive in a library," comments Arkian with a wry grin. "There's not an ounce of magical theory I learnt from a book. I'd still fail the entrance exam to the University if I took it.
Quite frankly, I'd rather be writing books than reading them. After this expedition, I'll certainly have some good material.
You know, though, that there's a good chance much of our work will be drudgery? We'll probably end up digging holes and sorting rocks. Anything that existed all those years ago is probably gone by now."
Michael follows the guard, looking back and forth at the scenery around him. He's seen the palace and its surroundings on the tri-d, of course, but this is his first time visiting in person. He tries not to present too much of an image of a country yokel, though.
The guard doesn't seem too talkative as he escorts Michael up to the waiting room, merely nodding here and there to various people as the pair make their way through the many corridors honeycombing the palace. Within a few minutes the two have arrived at the waiting room, where the guard deposits Michael with a nod.
"We're only waiting on the last two members of your party now," he says, glancing at Arkian and Rowan. "Good luck on your meeting with her Majesty."
With that he bows, leaving Michael with the other two awaiting their audience.
"If you're writing, then a library is a good place to be," Rowan says defensively. "Building on the prior work of your peers and cross referencing can help show a more complete picture. I've already had some of my work published - getting information from summoned beings that were alive during the Silver Millenium has revolutionised how we look at the past."
The young summoner looks to be getting rather into her spiel before she collects herself, blushing. "I'm sorry, I got a little carried away."
Moving on from that, "As to what we'll find on other world... that remains to be seen. I certainly don't expect anything to be as intact as this palace," she gestures vaguely around, "Was back in the 20th century, but I'm confident we'll find plenty of interest."
As the new arrival enters, Rowan looks up distractedly from her conversation. "Hello?"
"Hello. Name's Michael Watson. I'm; or, I guess, I was a grad student in archaeology at New Denver U." He holds out his left hand; always the left hand. The right one doesn't see much use anymore.
Apart from the hand, which is blatently obvious, Michael doesn't really stand out much. Mediumish height, blond, slightly reddish hair. Blue eyes too. He's thin, but that's more from poor nutrition than from exercise.
OOC: hey, Hal? Is that last bit a little too much? I'm not quite used to this format yet.
OOC(Hal): That's fine. Might not need to drop quite so much information all at once though; there's no real rush.
"Nice to meet you, mr Watson," Rowan stands and bows, proffering yet another business card. "I'm Rowan Lammermuir."
She does raise an eyebrow at his right hand, but decides not to let it bother her. He must have it under some wacky enchantment or something... can't imagine why he'd do that before meeting the Queen, though...
"Arkian," says Arkian, extending a hand.
"Good to meet you two," Michael says, accepting the business card and glancing at it briefly before stowing it away in some random pocket. "So. She's a summoner, and you're, hm, a mage of some sort?" He shakes Arkian's hand.
"A geomancer," replies Arkian, shrugging. "What of you?"
The card reads:
Rowan Lammermuir
Licensed Summoner Second Class, Third Category, Unlimited
Bsc Magical Theory
Ma History
Royal Mugen Institute
"That's right," the redhead confirms Michael's words. "What of yourself?"
"As I said, a grad student in archeaology. I was about to get my master's, when this happened." He motions vaguely with his right hand a bit. "It's a long story that includes the words 'Then, since I was an idiot' a lot, but I guess we don't have much else to do while we wait."
"Oh, dear..." Rowan winces, sitting down. She doesn't ask directly, but her posture does make it clear that she's curious.
"Well, to make that long story shorter, I managed to conspire my way into having the first shot at a newly discovered artifact. My thesis was going to be just great. Unfortunately, as I walked home from picking it up, some thugs decided to dispute my good fortune." Michael pauses to see what reactions his small audience has to this.
Arkian raises an eyebrow. "I see you must have given them quite a shock," he observes.
"They stole it?!" Rowan gasps, horrified.
Don't people take precautions against this sort of thing?
"Ah, no. The artifact resolved the conflict by, I don't know; probably the best word is 'melding' to my hand." Michael holds up his right hand again. "As far as anyone can tell, my hand is solid rock. But it still works like my old one, except my sense of touch is a little dulled and my hand is now a whole lot stronger." He lets it drop back to his side.
"The other guy... Well, while I was screaming at my hand, rocks pulled themselves out of nearby buildings and the ground and spontaneously built a wall between myself and the thugs. Unfortunately for the ringleader, he got caught in the middle. I think he's still alive, but he'll be in intensive care for a long time. I still don't know how it happened, except that the artifact did it somehow."
Arkian glances at the rock hand, an impressed look coming across his face.
"It did it by itself?" he says, with intrest. "Where did it come from? Does it have a name?"
Rowan winces, shaking her head. "Have you tried having an exorcism or anything? I can recommend a good priest for that."
It doesn't sound like he has any conscious control over it at all... that could be extremely dangerous, she thinks, rather alarmed.
"It's a rock, Rowan. How do you exorcise a rock? They thought about cutting it off and fitting me with a prosthetic hand, but it seems to be interfacing with my neural structure, and the medtechs at the university hospital decided the shock would probably kill me. That's part of why I'm here, to keep this thing away from other people, in case it goes off again, or in case someone else decides they want it."
Michael shrugs. "Sorry if I got carried away. It's just that this thing has given me a lot of stress these last few months. And no, Arkian, I have no idea what it is. My brother found it on his farm, and we were going to submit it to the National Museum once I'd finished my thesis, but it's too late now."
Arkian pauses. "Are you sure this is the best course of action, though?" he asks. "After all, if your intent is to keep away from people in general, this will only be a temproary solution."
Rowan gives Michael a flat look. "Rock's don't have a sense of touch, and they can't make other rocks fly out of buildings to make walls. Its obviously magic, and dangerous.
"If it melded itself to your arm, it can UNmeld itself as well."
Giving his arm a more curious examination, she goes on, "It actually reminds me of a Golem's arm, if a bit smoother."
"Well, maybe it'll unmeld itself on its own, or maybe I'll figure out how to control it. In the worst case, this gives me time away from crowded areas while the medtechs continue to try to figure out a way to sever it."
What's with this girl? Michael thinks. First meetings and already she wants to burn me at the stake or something. I'm not THAT dangerous. Am I?
Arkian smiles. "I, for one, hope you gain control over it. It would be a pity to sever it when it could hold so much utility.
Utility beyond violence," he amends, giving Rowan a quick glance.
Yes. Fantastic. He gets away from crowded areas, and on a tiny little spaceship that's the only thing keeping me from dying in the cold expanse of space while we're flying to other planets. Is it too late to back out, now? Rowan thinks uncharitably.
"How would they be able to work on a solution to your problem if you're halfway across the solar system?" she asks the obvious question.
"Quantum tunneling? Advanced holographics? Magical simulations? I don't know, I'm no medtech. All I know is they said they could do it." Michael raises an eyebrow.
"If you say so," Rowan replies dubiously.
Let's see... what do I know of that could keep me alive if he trashes our spaceship to make a wall or something...? She ponders.
"By that, they mean, 'We *think* we can do it, but we're not sure," notes Arkian, dryly. "On the other hand, they probably didn't know what to do even if they had you there.
I guess you'll just need to wait and see. Maybe I could have a look at it," he continues, intrest once again spreading across his features.
"Will it cause me to roll on the ground screaming in agony the way I did when it first melded to me? Because I don't want to get these clothes dirty." Michael watches Rowan out of the corner of one eye.
"Maybe. I'll wait until we're somewhere where we won't disturb anyone," replies Arkian, perfectly serious. "The magic involved seems to be quite unpredictable."
Rowan looks rather introspective at the moment, biting her lip thoughtfully as she runs through all sorts of contingencies in her head...
"We'll discuss it later, then." Michael subtly moves his right hand behind the bulk of his body, away from the pychotic mage.
Arkian raises an eyebrow. "If you say so."
Michael sits down on a chair and waits for the others. He hopes the other two won't be like this... So far, one wants to get rid of him and the other one wants to dissect him.
Rowan distractedly takes a snack from the tray, slowly chewing as she ponders things.
Would that work...? she thinks, I'll have to get some research done on this before we leave...
Arkian leans back in his chair, musing over his new companions.
I wonder exactly what it was that turned him arm that way? Facinating.. I'll have to investigate at some point.
At least when he stops looking at me like a rabbit faced with a snake.
Rowan.. a summoner? I've heard some fairly odd rumors, but I've never met one. I wonder..
"I've heard summoning can be rather dangerous," he comments. "Mind shedding some light on that?"
"Hm?" Rowan blinks, startled out of her reverie as she glances up at Arkian.
"Oh, that's true enough, I suppose. Summoning can be dangerous, but we have rules and guidelines that ensure it's safe enough. It's only when those are ignored that things can get out of hand.
"If you know the history of the Kingdom, the Silver Millenium was destroyed by the summoning of a being called Metallia, as well as various social upheavals at the time. And there were a few other incidents in the early days of the new Kingdom...
"Really, though, so long as you're careful, it's not as bad as it sounds. While its possible to call forth some incredibly evil and dangerous beings, doing so by accident is nigh impossible."
She does frown a little. "That isn't to say that a Summoner can't be forced, however..."
Arkian raises an eyebrow. "If that's true, then I'm not surprised somebody hasn't done it recently," he says. "After all, there are several individuals out there with strange.. ideals."
"Summoning is very tightly regulated, for that reason," Rowan responds. "How many mages do you know who have to carry a license like I do? How many mages do you know that have to submit to periodic brainscans from the department of hazardous magic?"
Sighing, she goes on, "That isn't to say that unauthorised Summoning doesn't happen, just that when it does, it gets dealt with very quickly."
Arkian shrugs. "As they say, sometimes, it only takes one.."
"You're right," Rowan nods, "And that's why we must remain ever vigilant. Better to have defined rules than to simply pretend no problem exists. That was the old Moon Kingdom's mistake."
Arkian nods. "Well spoken," he says. "I, for one, believe that the key to our survival is a good relationship with Earth."
Blinking, "That wasn't really my point, but you are right. The old Moon Kingdom was so disconnected with Earth it allowed Metallia and her servants to prey on people's fears and insecurities before they struck out and destroyed the Silver Millenium. I can't imagine anyone would want to see history repeat itself."
Arkian nods. "The people on Earth are basically friendly, if a little tense," he says. "Have you ever travelled there?"
"I've holidayed in Asia and Europe when I was younger," Rowan nods, smiling as she thinks back on those two vacations. "It's nice to see the disparate cultures down there compared to the big melting pot we have up here."
"There's such a sense of resilience about the people there, too," replies Arkian. "Like they've seen the worst, and now nothing will ever scare them again."
"I wouldn't really know about that," Rowan shrugs apologetically, "It was over ten years ago when I last went... I just think that people are people, wherever you go."
Attired in slacks, a white dress shirt, and red tie with small birds flying across it, Chris approaches the guards across the plaza. Ever fold and wrinkle has been thoroughly ironed out, and yet he still gives the impression of having been slept it.
“Christopher Dunham,” the dark-haired young man says, furnishing his documentation. “I’m here on appointment.”
The guard at the gate nods to Christopher, glancing at the letter he bears. "Just a moment while I check my list," he says, doing so.
The paperwork appears to be in order, and shortly Chris finds himself walking along through the palace hallways behind the guard. Most of what you pass seems to be offices and laboratories (although mostly the former), and the halls are busy with people going about their business this morning. Most of them ignore you, but one rather attractive woman with flame-red hair, bound in a set of three pigtails, stops to give you a look as you pass.
Aside from that, the trip is uneventful, and Christopher is soon in the waiting room with the other three arrivals. "There are snacks on the cart there for you if you're hungry," the guard says, giving the computer expert a curt nod. "You'll be taken to see the Queen as soon as the last member of your party arrives."
With that, he turns on his heel, leaving you with the three already in the room - presumably your companions for the mission ahead.
“Heya folks. How goes it?” Chris says, making a beeline to the snacks. Brushing two long, antennae-like bangs from his eyes, he tucks the purple dyed protrusions behind his ear. That they pop right back out seems to be of little consequence.
Ah, free food. The choicest food ever made!
"Hello," Rowan doesn't rise this time as she greets the new arrival. "You are...?"
"Hello," Michael says to the newcomer, extending his left hand. "I'm Michael Watson, student of archeology and getting myself into trouble."
The food is excellent, if not exactly filling. It's quite a varied selection of hors d'ouevres, and the drinks range from tea to a few popular sodas to water and fruit juice.
“Christopher Dunham,” he says, popping open a juice can. He shakes the proffered hand vigorously. “But people just call me Chris.” He takes the time to study each of the room’s occupants, his eyes finally settling on Michael’s right hand.
“Guy, what’s up with that?” he asks, curious.
"Long complicated story," Michael says. "I'll tell you later, once we get on our way."
Arkian glances at a clock on the wall.
"The last person is late," he notes, dryly. "We're all being kept in suspense."
"Is it past the time, already?" Rowan asks, also glancing up at the clock. "That's not a good way to make a positive impression when you have a royal appointment..."
As if on cue, a young woman with dark blue hair enters the room, overhearing Rowan's last comment. "Actually, we've just received word that our last survey team member has had a death in her family. She won't be able to attend the formal commissioning today."
Stepping into the room, the woman bows. "My name is Alena - it's a pleasure to meet all of you," she says with a smile. "If you're all ready, I'll take you to meet her Majesty - she's waiting for you now."
"Ah, yes, thankyou," says Arkian, hurridly. With one final glance at his (in truth, overpolished) boots, he stands to follow the woman.
I wonder if three cans were enough..
Stuffing a final few tasty snacks down his throat Chris nods, ready to finally see the queen.
I bet she looks even better in person. Wonder if I should've brought a camera?
Rowan looks a bit guilty for even saying anything on the subject after hearing that.
Silently, she stands up, smoothing out her robes and falling in with Alena.
After receiving an affirmative responce from Michael as well, Alena leads the group of four back out into the palace hallways, taking a short walk before arriving at a grand entryway. Two liveried guards stand post on either side of the enormous closed double doors, a carved crescent moon in the center of the lintel above the portal. Alena nods to the guards, opening the doors wide before stepping inside. "The Queen will see you now," she says, nodding to the surveyors.
The room beyond is a spectacle of grandeur unlike anything any of you have ever seen before, aside from during the occasional broadcast of significant events from the throne room. A lush red carpet leads along the length of the room, with paintings of the eight planetary senshi lining the walls on either side of the room - familiar faces all. At the end of the carpet stands a raised dais, on which is a large throne - made of glass, crystal, or diamond - it's hard to tell which. And seated on the throne is a woman whose face you've seen for your entire lives, everywhere from on the television to on the backs of your pocket change - Queen Serenity herself. To her left stands a tall, pink-haired woman in a senshi fuku of red and blue, the Princess Usagi - Sailor Moon. To the queen's right is her consort and wife, a beautiful, dark-haired woman in a red fuku - the Lady Rei Tsukino, Sailor Mars. Both Usagi and Serenity wear smiles as they see the group enter, although Rei keeps her expression neutral as she looks between the assembled group.
As the four of you approach the dais, the Queen stands, nodding to you. "Welcome to the Palace of the Moon Kingdom," she says with a smile. "I am Queen Serenity." Her eyes flicker between each of you briefly.
<Halbarad> roll 2d8
* Hatbot --> "Halbarad rolls 2d8 and gets 3."
Ebiris:
<Rei-chan> roll 2d8-2
* Hatbot --> "Rei-chan rolls 2d8-2 and gets 10."
You feel a touch on your mind - very much like the feeling from the brainscans you've undergone from time to time. But unlike the cold, almost clinical feel of a brainscan, this touch gives you a warm, comfortable sensation - it's actually rather pleasant.
Everyone else:
<C-Rat> roll 2d8
* Hatbot --> "C-Rat rolls 2d8 and gets 3."
<Joan> roll 2d8
* Hatbot --> "Joan rolls 2d8 and gets 9."
<Thepanda> roll 2d8 for I still have no idea!
* Hatbot --> "Thepanda rolls 2d8 for I still have no idea! and gets 7."
You feel a warm, friendly sensation for a moment, like a gentle touch on your minds.
All: The sensation only lasts for the briefest fraction of a second before dissipating, the Queen smiling at each of you in turn. "Congratulations to each of you - you've all been chosen for this mission because of your own unique skills and abilities. You're all aware of what we've asked you here to do; I won't bore you by explaining it yet again. Just know that the Kingdom's thoughts and hopes will go with you as you travel."
She smiles, stopping several feet away from you. "Thank you all for accepting this responsibility. It means a great deal, especially to me personally."
Rowan blinks. She did that without even trying? she thinks, some alarm creeping in. Briefly, she begins to firm up her mental defences before pausing, Well... she IS the Queen... I guess I'll just have to not think of anything bad. Think of something nice Rowan! she tells herself. Like... bunnies! Everyone likes bunnies! Happy hopping white... that thought trails off as she glances at Princess Usagi, Or pink...? Oh, no! I can't think of rabbits! I'm sorry, your Majesty! I'm just so nervous!
Her face turning ever brighter red, Rowan bows deeply. "Thank you for inviting me," she squeaks out, mortified.
Overawed. That was the only word that could accurately describe the sensation Chris was feeling. Sure, he’d known he was here to see the queen, but the reality of the situation only just hit home. He was standing in the same room as the Queen, her wife, and and their daughter. The guys on New Eden would never believe this. His parents wouldn’t believe it. Heck, he was here and it all seemed a bit farfetched.
“Yes your majesty,” he begins before fumbling a bit. Recovering quickly he continues. “I mean, it’s an honor to be here.”
The Queen returns to the Crystal Throne before giving you each a smile. "Please, don't be nervous," she says gently. "Are there any questions you had for me while you're here?"
Rowan glances sideways at Michael.
Do we have to take along the guy with the crazy powers he can't control? she doesn't ask. That would be rude. But if the Queen could by chance overhear said thought...
Speaking up however (while still blushing and not meeting the Queen OR the Princess' eyes), she asks, "Your Majesty, what's the actual timeframe on our mission and any followup missions for commencement of actual colonisation?"
No sense wasting the Queen's time with minute details we'll probably get explained to us by mission control, but it's nice to get an idea of the big picture, she thinks to herself.
If the Queen picks up Rowan's mental comment, she doesn't mention anything about it.
"The mission is scheduled to depart within a week, although I understand due to the tragedy involving the last member of your team there may be some rescheduling - you'll have to ask Ami about that when you meet with her later today." She shakes her head a bit. "Such a shame... Anyway, as far as followup missions go, those are dependent on the results all of you will be giving us. We're prepared to send a preliminary colonization mission to Mars almost as soon as we hear back from you, as we're anticipating very few problems there, but the other planets will take a bit longer - depending on the conditions there."
She gives Rowan a smile. "Hopefully within five years we'll have begun on the colonization of the rest of the System, and hopefully within fifty we'll see fully-grown colonies on each of the other planets."
Rowan nods, seeming to relax a bit, now. "So... Mars, first?" she asks, with a glance at the fiery senshi of said planet.
Serenity frowns slightly, and Rei returns Rowan's gaze calmly, smiling very faintly. "That was the original plan, yes," the queen replies. "Unfortunately, without a botanist we're going to have to delay the expedition to Mars - I believe your first destination will be Mercury at this point, but you'll need to speak with Dr. Mizuno about that," she finishes, referring to the head of the mission - your next meeting in just a few hours is with her, for your initial mission briefing.
“Your Majesty,” Chris begins, taking the opportunity to speak. “What the chances, do you think, that we’ll come across something still useful from the old kingdom? DO you think there may be ruins hidden as this,” he makes a sweeping gesture to take in the whole palace. “… this used to be?”
"I really don't have any idea personally how extensive any ruins you might find would be," Serenity admits. "Considering that the palace here survived as long as it did - even given everything it went through - it's quite possible that you might find other ruins on the other planets. But that's part of why you're being sent - we really don't have any idea what's left out there, and most of the probes that have been sent only report on the existence of a few ruined structures - nothing about what they are or what might be inside."
"With all due respect, Your Majesty," Michael begins, "I've been wondering how much of this mission is just good PR. After all, if the environment fields are gone, I can't see how much of anything would remain on Mercury, and certainly reestablishing the fields would require either a very large group of mages or yourself and your senshi." Michael shrugs. "I hadn't been following all the press on this until I was appointed here, but I'm wondering just how real this is."
Rowan glances over at Michael with a vaguely irritated look. Good God... he doesn't even have a clue, does he? Somehow she manages to repress a sigh, although it does add yet another strike against him in her book.
Serenity's smile fades slightly at Michael's comment. "The magical fields can be reestablished easily enough - the same was done to the Moon at the inception of the Kingdom. The question we have is whether it's worth it to do so. Some of this will be covered in the mission briefing, but the main issues are whether the planets themselves are capable of supporting life again, aside from their lack of an atmosphere and weather conditions. I can assure you, the need for this mission is very real - at our current rate of growth, the Moon will have reached its maximum capacity for people within the next sixty years. The Kingdom desperately needs more room to grow."
For her part, Rei simply gives Michael a long, hard, critical look, her violet eyes boring into the young student.
"I see." Michael looked a little chagrined. "Thank you, your majesty."
After overcoming his initial awe, Arkians eyes flicker across the various members off the room.
It's certainly very impressive. I wonder why they're sending us instead of going themselves?
Oh, of course. They have so much work to do..
His eyes flash towards Michael, and then move to Rei, and he can't help but regain his customary amused grin.
Good grief, that's one stare I wouldn't want to be recieving..
"If I may, Your Majesty? He's right; it's highly unlikely anything survived to the same standard as the palace on the moon, what with the lack of a Lunar atmosphere. Mercury is close enough to the sun that the heat would be capable of inflicting damage on any structures, and with the time gap.. but I'm sure you know all this already.
My estimation of the mission is simply verifying things we already know about the planet. There's a small chance something may have survived, but the only way I can think of that occuring offhand would have to be one of the fields still be active.
Would you have any idea how one could still be maintained after all this time?"
Arkian stops abruptly, blushing faintly.
Oh, lord, did I really say so much in one go?
"We're aware of the problems, Mr. Arkian," the queen replies smoothly. "The Moon Palace itself only survived as it did due to a very small, localized magical field - something which would be almost undetectable from any distance, and unfortunately magical scanning technology is still too delicate to place in a space probe. Any number of things might cause such a small field to remain - some enchantments are stronger in nature than others, and can concentrate the small amounts of energy remaining in the area better. Our only knowledge about the magical nature of the other planets at this point is very slim indeed, for the most part; we know they still have low-level magical fields, but nothing in the range of the Moon's, or even Earth's. Again, much of this will be covered in your mission briefing - there are quite a few specific notes for the individual planets themselves.
"But you are correct. Much of what you'll be doing is verifying what earlier probes have reported; and part of it is to get actual people's perspectives on the condition the other planets are in, before we start a large-scale move to colonize them."
"Just Arkian," says Arkian automatically.
I can't BELIEVE I just said that!
"Er, sorry. Yes. That's all," he says, hurriedly, suddenly very intent on a dot on his staff.
Serenity once again looks around at each of the surveyors in turn. "If there are no further questions... then may I be the first to say that everyone here wishes you the best of luck, and we all look forward to hearing your conclusions." She smiles brightly.
Arkian manages a bow, though questions could be raised as to the gracefulness of the motion.
"Ah, thank you, Your Majesty," he manages, managing a sickly smile in return.
She's going to remember that forever, Arkian.
Or at least you will, and that's probably worse.
Alena is waiting behind the group at the entrance still, nodding to everyone as they approach her. Just as the entire group is about to leave, though, the Queen speaks up. "Rowan? If you wouldn't mind, I'd like to speak with you privately for a few moments."
Rowan freezes. This is about the rabbits, I just know it!
Turning around. "Of course, your Majesty," she squeaks out, leaving the group behind and returning to her previous position facing the royal family.
Serenity looks like she's fighting a grin as you return to the front of the throne, but she manages to contain her mirth - if that's what it is.
"I've been meaning to speak with you for some time, Ms. Lammermuir," the blonde monarch says with a smile. "It's very rare indeed for someone to show as much natural talent for summoning as you have. I've been following your progress for some time, and I was very happy to see that you'd decided to apply for the survey mission."
There's a slightly faraway look in her eyes as she goes on. "I have high hopes for you indeed, Rowan. Show the world that summoning isn't the dark art that many people believe it to be, and do your Kingdom proud."
With a twinkle in her eye, she finishes. "And don't worry about the rabbits," she says, not bothering to hide the grin this time.
Following my progress? Rowan thinks, amazed. The Queen herself has been following MY progress?
The young summoner can't help but feel immensely proud as she hears those words. "Yes, your Majesty," she nods, grinning. "I know of the history surrounding my art, but it is my firm belief that responsible and friendly dealings with beings from other planes can only enrich our Kingdom."
With a quick glance at Princess Usagi, the blushing redhead adds, "Sorry about that. I was just nervous and it was the first thing to pop into my head..."
Michael wanders towards the door, half-evesdropping on the conversation. Christ, and she thought I was dangerous? I'm not the one getting chewed out by the Queen.
The Queen breaks into a wide smile. "It's not the first time I've heard rabbit jokes, believe me - although very rarely to my face, at least any more."
Sailor Moon looks slightly bemused, and Mars just shakes her head a bit - but you can see she's fighting a smile as well. "Good luck with your mission, Rowan. I'm looking forward to hearing back from you." Serenity gives the young summoner a nod, smiling as she dismisses the redhead.
Rowan continues glowing crimson as she bows deeply. "Thank you, your Majesty. I hope I'll have good news when next we speak."
Accepting her dismissal, the summoner takes a couple of steps backwards before she turns and leaves the throne room, only hurrying to catch up with the rest once she's out of the Queen's sight.
That went... really well, actually, she thinks, rather pleased with herself.
Alena is waiting with the rest of the group, easily visible from the entrance to the throne room - although Michael seems to be lagging behind the others a bit. When Rowan and Michael join the other two, she nods.
"The rest of the day today is your own," she says, leading the group back through the hallways of the palace towards the grand entrance. "You'll need to be here by 10 AM tomorrow, however, for your initial mission briefing with Dr. Mizuno - she's the head of the survey project. We also suggest that you pack your belongings for the trip - we have rooms prepared for all of you here in the palace while you're undergoing your basic training for the mission, and you're encouraged to make use of them while you're here - it's a good deal cheaper than a hotel, at least." She smiles a bit at that.
The four arrive at the silver doors after a short walk, and Alena hands out badges to each of the surveyors-to-be - each with their name and a picture, one you recognize from when you submitted your application, although Michael's is a surprise to him - he has no idea where they got it. The top half of the badge is metallic silver, with a golden stripe below it; the top of the badge simply reads 'Research'. "Simply show these at the gates when you arrive tomorrow morning, and take a seat in the main waiting room by the entrance." She points to a door off to the side from where you now stand. "I'll be here at 10 AM sharp tomorrow to take you into the research division, so don't be late! Anyway, enjoy the rest of your evening - and we'll see you all tomorrow."
She smiles and bows once, and the massive doors behind you swing open.
Rowan briefly debates. While she does have her home here in the capital, and a nice enough home it is, too... how often will she get to stay in the royal palace in her life?
Pocketing her badge, she nods to Alena and the others. "I'll see you all tomorrow, then," she offers, leaving the palace before taking the subway home to pack. And of course be interrogated by her mum over what the Queen was like. Rabbits... she snorts quietly to herself, amused by the faux pas in retrospect. At least the royal family were certainly nice enough about it.
"Uh, Rowan, wait up!" calls Arkian, taking has badge and rushing after her. "Are you using the subway?"
Rowan pauses at the gate to give Arkian a curious look. "Yes. My house is only a couple of stops from the palace. Why do you ask?"
"Oh, yes, my hotel is on the subway line," replies Arkian, shrugging. "I figured we may as well catch it together.
What did the Queen say to you?"
"If you like," Rowan shrugs amiably, waiting for Arkian to catch up before continuing on out of the palace.
"The Queen was just saying that she's been following my progress and has high hopes for my performance on this mission."
The summoner elects not to mention anything about the rabbits, however.
"Ah," replies Arkian. "Following your progress as a summoner? You must be quite the talent."
"I never really thought I was anything special," Rowan admits, blushing. "But it is a rare enough skill to begin with..."
"What have you been doing up until now, though?" asks Arkian, curiously. "I mean, what was your occupation?"
"Academia, mostly," Rowan smiles. "I only got my Masters in History a few months back. If not for this mission I'd probably have gotten a research and teaching position at the University.
"Even with leaving the university, I've pretty much spent the past few months doing research of my own for some other papers I've been working on. Those likely won't get published until after the mission - not that I mind, since what I learn on the other worlds can be incorporated, and the prestige of this mission will make publishing a LOT easier."
Concluding, Rowan glances at Arkian. "Mind if I turn the question back at you?"
"Something different every month," replies Arkian. "Before I found I earned this mission, I was aiding in housing construction in Haven, of all things. But I was a journalist only last year, and I somehow got involved in a jewlers the year before that, and I think at some point I drove a firetruck, and before that I was a pilot.."
He smiles a slightly embarrased smile. "I even joined the army, though god only knows why. Nothing seems to really hold me for long."
"Oh, my," Rowan chuckles. "I suppose at least it gives you some diverse experience."
As the pair descend into the subway station, she adds, "And you're a Geomancer as well?"
"That's right," replies Arkian. "Well, not until after I left the military. But I only got half the jobs I did because of my magic. I'm afraid my actual knowledge of the workings of most of them is rather thin, and, well, generally, I was only hired for one job here or there."
"Magic can make a very effective substitute for actual knowledge, though," Rowan grins, waiting for the next train. "That's what I do if I don't know the answer to something - I summon up someone or something that does and ask them."
Arkian chuckles. "I'll say. But with the way technology and magic are progressing together, that might not be an option for me any longer. I think I'm very lucky to have gotten this mission just now."
"How do you mean?" the not very technically minded summoner asks.
"Think about it," replies Arkian. "Certainly, my magic is very useful for all sorts of odd jobs. But at the rate mages are being trained, and with the rapid progress of science, I don't think it will be long before people begin to specialize much more in certain areas. Say, a mage dedicated to building dams, or some such.
I suppose they could easily combine magical knowledge with scientific know-how- as is being done already- and be very good at what they do.
So people with more general magical skills, like myself, or perhaps even you, will find ourselves losing jobs and whatnot to the people who specialize further."
Arkian blinks. "Of course, that's all just some speculation. After all, the kingdom hasn't been around that long, and with colonization imminent, I doubt it will be hard for anyone to get a job.."
Rowan shakes her head, sighing softly. "It's a question of focus and personality, not magical aptitude.
"While I can think of several ways to magically create a dam, some of which may be better than others, the magic used isn't the be all and end all of the endeavour.
"Honestly, I think you're worrying over nothing. I went to a magic-focused high school, and then I studied magical theory at university - I've known hundreds of magically talented people, of all kinds of affinities. And I can tell you that not one of them said 'I want to create the BEST spell in the world for building dams, and do NOTHING else!'
"People - especially mages - just aren't that focused by nature. Sure, we have specialties, but those still allow for a great degree of versatility."
Shrugging, she adds, "Besides, how often are new dams built? If that's all you can do, you're going to be unemployed for fairly long stretches."
Arkian shrugs. "Maybe you're right. I still believe, though, that with the huge number of magi that are being taught.. that they will begin to fall into less broad catagories.
Of course, I'm speaking from the viewpoint of one who was never formally educated. You're probably the first mage I'm ever going to have directly worked with for an extended period of time."
"Even without magic, there's still plenty of jobs out there," Rowan shrugs, boarding the train as it pulls up. "If it worries you that much, console yourself with the fact that you can make a decent living doing public speaking once you're famous from this mission."
Arkian pulls himself into the train, seating himself on a seat near the door. "If you havn't noticed, that's one thing I'm not so good at," he replies, dryly.
Rowan gives him a thin-lipped smile. "Then practice and specialise in it?"
“Ha! I’m government employed. I wonder what kind of benefits package we get?” Chris grins as he’s given his badge, not even bothered by the rather lacking photo of himself, very rumpled looking, adorning the ID. Even after all this time there was still no such thing as a good picture taken for a photo ID.
“Oh well, I’ll see about that later.” With pep in his step, Chris struts out of the palace, flagging a taxi for the trip home. “Lates, people!” he calls over his shoulder.
Michael fingers the ID holo wryly. "Stalkers?" he asks himself halfheartedly as he walks back to the train station to pick up his luggage. "I wonder what our missing member is like."
Arkian chuckles. "Perhaps," he offers, as the train pulls off.
The subway delivers the two explorers to their places of residence without further incident, allowing the two to get about the business of packing and preparing for an extended stay in the palace.
The next morning finds all four surveyors at the palace, waiting for Alena. The queen's attendant appears just as she said she would, right at 10 am on the nose. She makes a bit of small talk as she leads the foursome through the hallways of the palace yet again, although this journey is much shorter than the trip to the throne room. She leaves them all in a fairly large (if rather cluttered) office, and within a few minutes a smiling woman with short blue hair enters, dressed in a no-frills skirt suit and a lab coat.
"Good morning, everyone. I'm Dr. Ami Mizuno, and I'll be your supervisor for this mission." She waits for each of you to introduce yourselves, then proceeds.
"As I believe you heard in the meeting with her Majesty yesterday, there have been a few slight changes in the plans due to Ms. Kitagawa's absence from the team. Rather than Mars - where we really need a biologist's input - we'll be sending you to Mercury first." There's a slight glint in her eye at that, but she goes on quickly.
"As most of you are no doubt aware, Mercury isn't exactly the most hospitable of places. With it being as close to the Sun as it is, the surface is unimaginably hot during the Mercurian day, and at night - like most other astronomical bodies without a significant atmosphere - it's almost unbearably cold. Yet it supported life during the Silver Millenium, and thanks to the memories of the Queen and a few others, we think we know why.
"Mercury's surface wasn't colonized - the strain of protecting anything on the surface from the harsh conditions would be taxing on any kind of enchantment, to say the least. We believe the old Mercurian colonies were constructed underground. With more than a thousand meters of rock separating the actual colonies from the surface, the temperature shifts would have been little problem, and with the Mercurians' reliance on technology more so than magic, we tend to believe that at least a few of these underground colonies must still exist today.
"What this means for you is simple. Try to see if you can locate one of the entrances to these underground colonies, and if you can, explore it to see if it's still structurally sound enough to use for a colony in the modern era. Additionally," here she turns to Arkian in particular. "We'd like to determine if the rock comprising the surface is stable enough to create new colonies of the same type. We suspect that it is, but first-hand measurements will be required."
She nods at that, glancing around at the four in the room. "Before I go on, are there any further questions?"
"I do," Rowan raises her hand a bit. "With the Mercurians being as technically minded as you say - as opposed to magic - would air and temperature in the underground colonies be created or controlled by mechanical means rather than magical enchantments?"
"You wouldn't happen to have any idea of the original location of the colonies, would you?" asks Arkian, musing. "After however many years, the shifting surfaces of Mercury will almost certainly have covered up many of the entrances to an underground facility, if not damaged or ruined them entirely.
A rough idea of where to begin searching would be extremely helpful in this sort of work."
Chris ponders for a few moments, waiting for the good doctor to answer the first two questions before raising his own. “Should we find the Mercurian colonies, and should they be intact, I assume we’re to bring back some of it for further study here on the moon, correct? What kind of equipment will we have to make sure that nothing happens from handling the alien artifacts? I’d heard stories about old Lunarian tech that people have found that had some unfortunate consequences on those who’d handled it, and, well…”
Hearing Chris' remark about 'unfortunate consequences' Rowan can't help but snort slightly and glance at Michael.
No kidding...
Dr. Mizuno takes the questions in the order they were asked, turning to Rowan first.
"As far as the atmosphere and temperature goes, we're not sure. We know the main problem as far as protection goes - the extreme heat on the day side - won't be a problem underground. It may be a bit on the cold side, but that may be able to be solved by restarting the climate control equipment, depending on what shape it's in. Much of the old machinery from before the Restoration here on the Moon was still operable, it simply needed power. If you CAN restore power, go ahead and do so; if not, simply make a note of what you believe it needs to restore them and we'll send a more specific team before we start recolonization."
Arkian's query is next. "As far as the original colony entrances go, we know of a few. Meteorite activity is the only thing you should have to worry about; Merury, like the Moon, has a solid core - there's no tectonic or volcanic activity to worry about changing the surface. You may have to clear debris from the entrances themselves, but the underground portions of the colonies - those not structurally supported by magic, at least - should still be intact."
Chris's question is the final one to be answered. "We have what are known as null magic boxes. They dampen any magical external magical fields, and seal in any inside the container. Those should be sufficient to keep any artifacts you find contained until you can get back to the Moon."
Rowan nods, happy with Sailor Mercury's answers so far, and content to remain silent and let the other woman go on with her lecture for now.
"There are two main objectives on Mercury: Find and clear one or more of the entrances to the underground colonies, and try to get an idea of how much of the underground is still intact. Your secondary objective was touched on by Rowan's question - if you find yourselves capable of doing any simple restoration of power or anything else that might be useful, you are to do so. You don't need to take any unnecessary risks, but that will be up to your judgement once you get a better understanding of the situation.
Your secondary objective, as it will be for all the other planets, is to try to gain as much information about the former Silver Millenium colony that existed there. Keep your eyes open for artifacts, writings, possibly even computer systems on Mercury. Again, we don't know what you'll find, so use your best judgement on what's valuable and what isn't."
She considers for a moment. "The only other thing that I can think of at the moment is surface conditions. The portable atmospheric generator you'll be taking with you for your base camp will compensate for the subzero temperatures of the night side, but it won't do anything to protect you on the day side - and it will probably be damaged if it's left out on the day side. The ship itself is shielded against the heat, so that's of less concern. But if you delay too long in the interior, you'll have to wait again for the ship to enter the dark side - I seriously doubt any of you have any capabilities that will let you survive in that sort of heat. Something for you to bear in mind, as well."
She pauses again, for any further questions.
Rowan thinks for a moment before speaking up, "Do the underground colonies form a continuous network, or are they seperate and self contained?"
"They did at one time," Ami replies. "During the Silver Millenium, the colonies - basically independent cities - were linked by an underground network of highways. Most of those were bored by magic - traditional methods would have taken too long. That being the case, I don't expect you'll find many of them still intact. It IS an outside possibility, but I don't find it particularly likely."
Michael raises his hand. "Uh, one question; given what you've said so far, do you think there's a chance any life may have survived, in the tunnels? Say, former colonists' pets or such, adapted to the conditions after the fall?"
"Almost none. By our best estimates, it's been well over ten thousand years since the fall of the Silver Millenium. While a species surviving for that period of time wouldn't be at all unlikely on Earth, most ot the food production on Mercury - and there was never much - was entirely dependent on magical means. Any sort of plant or animal life would be required to adapt to a near total lack of food or water." She smiles a bit at that. "So I doubt you'll find anything living while you're there."
Seeing that there are no further questions, Ami nods, taking four sheets of paper off of her desk. "If that's all, here are your schedules for the rest of the week. Each of you will be going through training for the next week, mostly on the use of the equipment and familiarizing you with the ship. As far as environmental protection goes, we have two options for you. The first is a belt containing a magical device that will maintain pressure for you, along with an air tank that you'll wear on your back. The second is a more traditional space suit." She pauses for a moment, considering. "Other than that, I believe we're more or less done, since you have no other questions."
She gives the group a smile. "The first of your training sessions are due to begin later this afternoon - that should give you all time to get moved into your quarters here at the palace. If you think of any questions later, feel free to contact me on the palace comm system - if I'm not available, I should be able to get back with you within a few minutes. Thank you all for your time." She gives you all a slight bow.
"Likewise, Sa-, I mean, Dr Mizuno," Rowan replies, correcting herself as she recalls how the Sailor Senshi chose to introduce herself earlier.
Standing up to return the other woman's bow, she then picks up her schedule to give it a quick look over.
The only things slated for today are a new employee orientation, at 2 pm, followed by a tour of the palace complex at 3. That's scheduled to take nearly two hours, then you're finished for the day.
Assuming no one stops her, Rowan proceeds to go get settled in her guest rooms here at the palace, intending to pass the time reading until it's time for her orientation.
Arkian picks up his timetable and retreats to his quarters, musing.
All I *really* need is an air source, but there's no point taking silly chances..
Chris likewise appropriates a schedule and heads to his room, hoping to check out what kind of connection the palace used. Killing time in the wired seemed the ideal thing to do, along with getting a few snacks to munch.
The rest of the day goes without incident. The four explorers settle into their new rooms with little trouble, and the two meetings scheduled for that day go quietly. Orientation is... typical new employee orientation, outlining the basic policies and procedures of working for the government directly. The tour, however, takes every last minute of its scheduled two hours, the trip a much expanded version of the visitors' tour for the palace.
The next two days are spent as a group. The first is getting to know the ship, the Silver Star. It's a modified saucer design, with an off-center cockpit and a connecting corridor running halfway around the inside. The outer ring of the ship has been subdivided into living quarters, with space for as many as eight people, as well as a single head near the rear of the ship. The inner part of the ring is a large storage hold, which itself can be sealed off and jettisoned if need be - although it's not expected that you'll ever have to make use of that function.
Day three is comprised of basic equipment training. Everything from the magical pressure belts and space suits to the null-magic artifact boxes is covered. Among the items included for your mission is a fairly large subspace pocket for food storage, mounted in a small frame for ease of portability. For living on the surface of a planet itself (since the ship is a bit on the cramped side), there are shelters and the atmospheric generator. The shelters are more or less tents that are magically climate-controlled, and the atmospheric generator creates a magical field that generates and maintains an atmosphere over a 100 meter radius - more than enough for a fair-sized campsite.
Day four sees the team separate. Each of the four explorers spends the day with a specialist in their own field:
An expert coder and systems administrator in the morning for Chris, and several hours with a mechanic in the afternoon.
A veteran geologist with experience in both Lunar and Earthbound environments for Arkian's morning, and a training session with a military test pilot in the Silver Star in the afternoon.
An all-day session with Cyprine and Ptilol, the twin sisters who head the Lunar government's magical research branch for Rowan - with a surprise visit from the Queen herself for a couple of hours late in the afternoon.
And a day in the library with Dr. Mizuno and the head of archaeology at the Royal Mugen Institute for Michael, reviewing both personal memories of Mercury as well as old documentation regarding the planet.
And then the team is given two days to rest and attend to business, the launch itself scheduled for 10 am on March 30th, exactly one week from the time when the four first arrived at the palace.
OOC: If you want to do anything in particular before you leave, you have two days. If you've got a suggestion for what you'd like to spend those two days doing, contact me on IRC and we'll split you out into your own thread for a bit.
Michael takes one of the days to go back out to the family farm and just have some quality family time. On his return to the capital, he decides to spend the rest his free time before the launch patronizing various bookshops.