Star Wars Task Force Lazarus: Agents in the Employ of the Republic

The year is 90 BBY. The Galactic Republic has flourished during the nine centuries since the Ruusan Reformation. Peace has been maintained due to the efforts of the Jedi Order and the systems within Republic space. However, space is vast and peace cannot remain everywhere at once.

The members of the Jedi Council and Galactic Senate have put in motion an initiative to explore worlds more extensively in the hopes to preserve peace and expand influence respectively. As such, those with interest in joining the Republic or preserving its stability have been invited to join an expeditionary task force in the name of these goals.

Welcome to Task Force Lazarus.

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As a new face to these forums, I would like to say hello to everyone first and foremost. I hope to bring the roleplaying style that I use in my own tabletop gaming groups to this game and I also hope to make it an enjoyable game for all of those involved.

Task Force Lazarus is meant to be about a group of adventurers who accept various jobs during their exploration of the galaxy. The game will be split into ?Chapters? much like a novel, where each adventure the characters undertake will comprise the story of said chapter. I do not plan to hinder the creative process of players, but I do have a few requests when making your character:

-Keep in mind the timeline. I have chosen 90 BBY to have a rather vague starting point for the heroes and to also limit major characters within the history in which your characters could have come into contact with. This also means that the Ewoks and the Yuuzhan Vong haven't even been introduced so playing one is quite impossible.

-As stated briefly in the first mention, I would request that while players have freedom with who or what they play that the following be observed: no Canon characters from Star Wars are to be played and interaction between your character and any of these characters throughout your characters own personal history are to be severely limited (I.E.: A Jedi character could have met Master Yoda in his timeline but is not permitted to have trained exclusively under him as a Padawan)

-Dark Jedi are permitted for play. Perhaps they have motives outside that of the Republic and plan to spy on their progress and efforts. If you want to do this, that's fine as well, but keep in mind that you will be playing incognito and may have suspicions drawn upon you should you turn to rather... ?unscrupulous? means of problem solving.

-Please don't be ?the best? anything. A Jedi Master character may have a Padawan (an NPC that will be GM controlled) but he isn't the best swordsman that has ever lived. A bounty hunter cannot be the ?best pilot in the galaxy?... you folks get the idea.

-Your character is mortal be you human, droid, or otherwise. So you are entitled to make mistakes in judgment or make an error or two. Should tragedy befall your character in some way, don't have the ?fix-all, know-all? method to get out of it if you don't already possess it. If the ship is going down, the pilot is unconscious, and you don't know how to fly a starship... I promise to at least make it dramatic.

And that's basically it! I understand that there are rules that are to be followed on the forums, so please try to adhere to them. Obey the Terms of Service, GM word is law, keep swearing to a minimum (just because you're playing a sailor doesn't mean you get to swear like one!), leave all questions in OOC before an IC post after the game has started otherwise send them to me in PM, and most of all have fun!

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Now what you may (or may not) have been waiting for... the Character Sheet. NOTE: This does not need to be PM'd to the Game Master. I will be accepting only 7 characters from the start but I may allow more as the game progresses or becomes more popular. And for the courtesy of everyone who may be interested or involved... no placeholders! (that means saying OOC ?Sheet is on the way!? or ?I'll get a sheet up later today?) Don't say i

OOC: Before I post my CS I have to know, do we have to be a Jedi character?

GM Response:: No you don't. I don't believe it's mentioned anywhere that it is required to do so. You can play anything you want really: bounty hunter, soldier, Republic Intelligence, smuggler... the list is endless my friend

OOC: I suppose I'll post my CS here:

Name: Kayrek
Gender: Male
Age: 20
Species: Trianii
Personality: Quiet and reserved
Occupation: Trooper
Weapons: blaster rifle, blaster pistol, vibrodagger
Bio: a lithe being, Kayrek had always wanted to be a trooper. after he saw the courage and valor of those in the army during the war, he was drawn irresistibly to a position there. Initially refused because he flunked out of training, he did not give up there. returning with a vengeance, he proved to his superiors he could do it, and was given a position as a soldier. he tries every day to show to his superiors he is capable and worthy of his position, to reaffirm their trust in him. below the surface, though, he itches for adventure, wanting to explore the galaxy and see all the cultures and systems.

OOC: I'm interested in playing, but I also have a question before I send my character sheet: Are Wookiees one of the species we are prohibited from playing in this time period?

GM Response: Of course not. Wookiee's have been around since the Old Republic and perhaps even further back than that so they are playable. As far as I know, Ewoks and Yuuzhan Vong appeared during the timeframe of the Original Trilogy and after in the Expanded Universe. I should probably say that any species that was discovered after the Empire would be forbidden.

Okay, thanks. I didn't know because the canon seems kind of confused about when Wookiees entered the galactic community. They appear in KOTOR, but of course in that they're being repressed and exploited, and then there's a gap between that and Episode I where there's a Wookiee Senator and you have Tyvokka in the EU. And then when the Empire rises there was something about them falsifying records in order to enslave the Wookiees, which makes the whole situation even more unclear. I thought if you were going to be stickler you might not allow them.

So here's my CS. I had the idea that this expedition would be kind of Lewis-and-Clark-esque, where the Senate wants the PCs to record what they find out there.

Name: Gahyyyrtukk (Gah-heer-took)

Gender: Male

Age: 187

Species: Wookiee

Personality: Gahyyyrtukk?s personality is largely defined by his mysophobia, although he would like it not to be. Even though he is taller and stronger than the average humanoid, Gahyyyrtukk is timid and uncomfortable in unfamiliar situations. Gahyyrtukk will not enter any situation that is patently unsanitary. Because he is bald he obviously has to wear clothes, but he doesn?t mind because he finds that to be much more sanitary than going naked. He wears a dignified two-piece suit. Gahyyyrtukk has gone back to Kashyyyk very infrequently since he left, and self-identifies much more with Corellian culture than Wookiee culture. Many people who have never heard Shyriiwook do not even recognize him as a Wookiee, between his lack of hair and lack of any Wookiee mannerisms or cultural trappings. Although he can only speak Shryiiwook, he always has his primitive translator droid on his person (it is miniaturized, like Em Teedee). The droid has a ?dignified? voice and tonal simulator, a little like C-3PO. This was Gahyyyrtukk?s choice, because this is how he prefers to be perceived. Gahyyrtukk is not a scientist or engineer, but he is knowledgeable on a variety of subjects and he doesn?t mind letting others know it.

Occupation: Librarian, Archivist, and Information Resource Scientist

Weapons: Blaster Pistol, Utility Vibroknife

Bio: Gahyyyrtukk was born on Kashyyyk. His father, Rraauchyyrtuaar, made a living as a taxidermist to the hunters who would descend into the Shadowlands and return with game. Rraauchyyrtuaar was very enthusiastic about his work and tried to get his son involved from an early age, probably too early. Gahyyyrtukk was initially very frightened of the gore. Images of the fluids and innards of dead animals stayed with the boy, giving him a strong aversion to biological matter like blood, phlegm, and mucus.

Gahyyyrtukk himself grew into a very intelligent child, with a very good memory and ability to recall information. He read and studied about the greater galaxy and offworld technology more than most of his peers. He made it a point to remember medical and hygiene-related facts. Gahyyyrtukk had always preferred things be neat, but as he got older his habits became more extreme. Around the age of twelve, when it was time for his hrrtayyk ceremony, he suffered a nervous breakdown, too afraid of ?getting dirty? to descend into the Shadowlands. Shortly afterward, he compulsively shaved off all of his fur in order to make himself cleaner. He was sent to Rwookrrorro, where one of only a very few Wookiee mental health institutes was, for treatment. The specialists there diagnosed him as mysophobic, but decided he?d get better treatment offworld. He was sent to a psychiatric hospital on Correllia, where he was treated for a few years and received a personal translator droid.

After receiving treatment for two years, Gahyyyrtukk made a good deal of progress. Where he had once been afraid to even leave his sterilized hospital room, he could now go out into the world, as long as he was equipped with gloves, tissues, hand sanitizer, and cold medication. And he always remained shaved. The doctors allowed him to live on his own, away from the hospital, although he would have to come in for periodic check-ups. Not really knowing what to do

Name: Luc Stoneheel
Gender: Male
Age: 36
Species: Human
Personality: Luc is often quick-witted and mildly laid-back. His nature seems as if it would conflict with his area of expertise. This however is untrue as when he starts working on electronics, ship repair, or any related task, Luc becomes a devoted and hard-working crew member, though will add a little bit of humour to keep his fellow crew members at a less tense level.
Occupation: Engineer extraordinaire and mediocre pilot, Luc works in around and with machines at all times in his personal workshop.
Weapons: Heavy Blaster Pistol
Bio: Luc was born and raised on Naboo to a family with direct ties to the Theed Palace Space Vessel Engineering Corps (TPSVEC) and therefore learned a lot of engineering details and what-not from his father. Eventually his father chose to take up work on Coruscant, figuring it may be a better use of hi skills. Luc was a teen by this point, but only had a handful of friends, whom he promised to remain in contact with.

Luc eventually finished schooling, and joined his father in business together for a few years before starting up his own workshop on Coruscant. Luc remained a local favourite due to his efficiency and quality of repairs, and gained a substantial popularity with some of the senate members, who often flew Nubian made ships, a convinience for Luc due to hisexpert knowledge in this specific field.

Name: Tearus Jeando
Age: 41
Gender: Male
Species: Human
Eye Colour: Blue
Physical description: Standing at 5'10 Tearus Jeando is the epitomy of physical condition. His body is extremely well built and conditioned. He has a short mohawk running down the center of his head and the rest of his body is covered with scars. The most notable of which he received from a light saber blow stretching from his left shoulder to his right hip, inflicted by a dark side user.
Clothing: Beskar'gam. Modifications include reinforced armor to withstand more damage and enhancements to increase speed and reflexes slightly.
Personality: Tearus Jeando is a ruthless man. He is very quiet and shows now mercy to his victims. He has made a very well known reputation as being an effective bounty hunter along with his squad of commandos.
Occupation: Bounty Hunter
Area of Expertise: Tearus is a very good bounty hunter and is an exceptional hand to hand fighter.
Weapons: EE-9 Carbine Rifle, Czerka ZX-4 Flamethrower, Blastech-Dur 112 wrist laser, Beskad.

Personal Ship
Name: Burska's Revenge
Class: CloakShape fighter
Weapon Systems:
* Turbo-Laser cannons (2)
* Proton torpedo launchers (2)
o 6 Torpedos each

Biography: Tearus Jeando and his group of commandos blasted onto the scene 110 BBY and quickly gained notoriety for taking on impossible jobs. Not much is known about Tearus other than the fact that his family was killed when he was young and it was after that event that he went into the killing business. His commando squad is rumored to have even taken a bounty on a powerful dark side user in 98 BBY. It was after this rumor started going around that Tearus was seen alone. His squad has never been seen again after that and Tearus's beskar'gam is slightly different carrying pieces that are believed to be from his fallen commandos. Underneath the beskar'gam Tearus has a large scar going from his left shoulder to his right hip.

Name: Arco Vasser
Gender: Male
Age: 26
Species: Human
Personality: Arco Vasser isn't a frontiersman by any means. Raised and trained on Coruscant, he prefers loud music, city bustle, and general action. Possessing the traditional Coruscanti air of superiority, he is mostly apathetic toward matters lying too far beyond the Core Worlds adjacent to 0-0-0. Since his inclusion in Task Force Lazarus, he has been seen as disconnected and distant, longing to return and make what he sees as a difference.
Occupation: Vasser is an agent of the Republic's Congressional Intelligence And Defense Liaison, or CITADEL. A post-Ruusan organization formally under the control of the Senate Judiciary Department, CITADEL makes use of information gatherers, observers, and a few near military-grade special units. Sometimes labelled political officers, its agents serve the various departments and heads of state throughout the government, maintaining a strong sense of duty to preserving and furthering the solidarity of the Republic. Because of the nature of Task Force Lazarus, the Senate saw to it that a CITADEL agent be present to report on and evaluate the expedition.
Weapons: Light repeating blaster pistol, Vibroblade
Bio: Son of a wealthy and influential Coruscant shipping company owner, Vasser enjoyed a carefree childhood high amongst the cloud-tops of the planet's largest and most opulent penthouses. Longing for a little more excitement in his life, he joined the Republic Security Force and was promoted to lieutenant in the organization by the age of 23, mostly fueled by the good word of his father. From there on he demonstrated himself to be a competent and able in many a tight situation, and was much liked by his superiors.

Two years before the assembly of Task Force Lazarus, he was selected for a Senatorial multi-branch investigative unit looking into alleges of inter-departmental budget falsification. It unexpectedly revealed evidence of an extensive organized crime ring fronted by several large Coruscant businesses, including his father's. The ring's ties even went so far as to implicate several law enforcement officials, including high-level members of the RSF itself.

Shocked at the amazing levels of corruption, Vasser vehemently defended his position as a loyal servant of justice and the Republic. Incessant media attention and theories about his unusually fast promotion pushed Vasser to a decision to leave the RSF. Going over the heads of his commanding officers, he requested transfer into the CITADEL branch of the Judiciary. He considered the opportunity of cleaning up Coruscant a form of penance, and also thought of it as a way to clear his family's name, though he harbored no ill feeling toward his father.

After multiple review boards of mental, physical, and tactical faculties, Arco Vasser was accepted as a full agent into the organization. However his arrival was a stroke of luck for the Defense Liaison. Unable to spare any sufficiently-experienced field agents and having already agreed to throw in with Task Force Lazarus, they sent the hapless Vasser on his way. He is to be out on the fringes of the Republic and on a journey of discovery: exactly where he doesn't want to be.

I'll Play!
Character Sheet:

Name:Jake Vespin
Gender:Male
Age: 27
Species: Human
Personality: Querky and quiet for the most part. Gets very animated when he is dealing with what he loves:
Rocks, and things that explode. ESPECIALLY things that explode. If he's running..you better keep up.
Occupation:Geology/Demolitions
Weapons:Stunner, Vibroblade, assension gun with various 'missles'.(Attachments)

Bio: Jake used to work for some secret organization, but his unorthodox methods soon put him in trouble with superiors. Jake often worked off the grid, and would disappear from time to time on his own research soon put him out of favor. He decided to leave, leaving his old command a harmless, but still quite 'impressive' display of how unhappy he was with his old job. Most folks think he's missing a few plasma coils. When folks first meet Jake, they figure he must be some sort of scientist type, because he's usually quiet, and studying different types of rocks, or always reading. But when his type of expertise is called for, Jakes goes into action. Jake can make almost anything explode, special packages, direction and force, large or small. He also likes to use things around him, knowing the explosive nature for many items, so that if the explosion has to looked more 'natural', he can do that to. Jake REALLY enjoys watching things explode and burn, and can talk about it at great length. He can identify pretty much any standard explosives made. Set of goggles always on his head, with 3 different lens types. He likes his drink, and hates 'by the book' type folks.

Name: Traya Sulskye
Gender: Female
Age: 31
Species: Human
Personality: Fiery, not afraid to apeak her mind at any time unless it is imperative that she not.
Occupation: Scout (military purposes)/Surveyor
Weapons: Blaster pistol, blaster rifle, thermal detonators
Bio: Born on Coruscant as the youngest of five children, Traya, in order to be heard over the incessant chatter from her siblings, learned to be somewhat rude when it came to communication. Although this did not rest well with her siblings, her fiery will and determination to the surveyor field landed her a job with a sizeable construction company after a decent stint in the Coruscant National Guard forces, where she was a scout for the infantry. For twelve years, she worked her way up the corporate ladder, gaining ever-higher posts in the company, and thus earning higher pay. However, as she was about to get into management, the company suddenly closed its door, severing ties with its employees. Flustered and angry about her wrongful termination from employment, Traya was able to find out about Task Force Lazarus. She had never before been able to leave the planet she called home, and this also offered pay, so she jumped at the chance, even though she knew that the job might entail her to work with people whose views she would totally object to.

OOC: Cant wait for this to start!

I agree.

GM Announcement: Let the game begin!

Telos IV Orbit / Consular-class Republic Cruiser Young Thunder / Debriefing Room

One by one the agents had arrived by shuttle, their own vessels (if they had one) remained docked on the planets surface within a guarded hangar. As they arrived, they were each led by the communications officer towards a room much longer than it was wide, certainly a room custom designed for this class of starship. A large rectangular table took up the center of the room with enough space to seat five on either side. A holoprojector was positioned dead-center above the table.

The doors to the debriefing room slid open to allow a group of three individuals to enter. The first was clearly a Republic officer, Zygerrian male by his looks and Captain by the insignia on his uniform. Following a few steps behind him, a middle-aged human male clad in navy cloak with ultramarine colored robes beneath while an elongated metal cylinder hung from the side of his belt. The last figure was likely the more surprising of the group: a young human female, no older than thirteen years of age.

The Captain was the first to speak.

?The Republic extends its thanks to you all, Agents. I am Captain Iobdys.? The Zygerrian stood at attention as he addressed the group gathered in the room. His cold, piercing eyes scanned each of the seven agents while he continued his address. ?We have our first mission thanks to our esteemed allies on the Jedi Council. I'll allow Master Hedgerom to explain. Master?? Iobdys stepped to the side to allow the Jedi to speak, taking up a position mirroring that of the girl.

?Thank you Captain.? The Jedi spoke in a gravelly tone, his fingers stroking through his salt and pepper hair. ?My name is Aldru Hedgerom, Jedi Knight. The Council has brought some interesting news to our attention...? Aldru waved his hand as the holoprojector showed a globe of a planet that slowly rotated the way it should.

?Ossus. Recent bathymetric surveys have revealed that in the caverns beneath Imhar Canyon hold something very precious in terms of historical value,? The hologram zoomed in on the canyon itself, revealing several rocky areas that look to be quite dangerous. ?During the Old Republic, Master Anstak held onto several aquatic artifacts that had been salvaged from several worlds that those without the propensity to breathe underwater could never access. Our surveys show that his offices are still intact, which likely means the artifacts he uncovered may still be intact as well.?

Iobdys cleared his throat. ?We're prepared to give you access to what we can, but we have to say that given your areas of expertise written in your personal files that some precautions should be taken.? Their eyes fell upon the group of seven gathered there.

?Once we arrive at Ossus, we will give you all a map of the area itself, but despite our technology, we are unable to discern how much of the caverns are blocked by cave-ins. The tunnels beneath the Eocho Mountains have been reported as collapsed.? Iobdys flicked a dreadlock of hair over his shoulder. ?We are aware that this is your first mission together, so please introduce yourselves and your role within the Task Force. We will depart for Ossus once we've gathered the necessary equipment you want requisitioned.?

TAG: Kayrek, Gahyyyrtukk, Luc, Tearus, Arco, Jake, Traya

~Luc~

Luc scratched the stubble on his chin as he listened to the debrief. He had taken up a seat at the end of the roo, his right foot propped up on the edge of the table holding him at a good balance as he tipped back in his chair. He had ny a relation with Gungan traders while on Naboo, and learned a thing or two about under water travel, but not in the area of swimming, more along the idea of a Bongo. He sighed slightly, but not well audiably as he righted his sitting position, leg still resting on the edge of the table.

*Underwater swimming...hmm. Shame I ain't no Nautolan, esy if I were...* Luc thought to himself as he looked at his comrades, the majority of which were human, one a Trianii, and the last resembled a hairless Wookie, wearing clothes. Luc figured that he'd be working in a primarily human situation, as much as the republic is not xenophobic of non-human/humanoids, there was still a majoritive likelihood of being teamed up with humans than anyhing else. He still found it curious to be working with a Trianii and that was enough for what he cared.

"So we've found a way to traverse under water?" Luc asked, in a rather curious tone, addressing Iobdys. "'cause if we haven't who'll be in charge of that?" Luc looked about as he awaited response, his comrades all clearly to stare at him.

Tag: All

IC: Tearus Jeando

"Whats am I getting myself into" Tearus thought as he looked around at the 6 other individuals that were to be his new team. "Well I better get this over with..."

"Names Tearus Jeando, I dont know how much scientific input I can provide but when the lasers start popping I'm the guy you want on your side. As far as breathing under water... There are many various breath masks available, my helmet for example provides me with two hours of oxygen before I have to switch tanks..." After a short pause Tearus stood up "Well now that thats over I will be in the bar. Call me when we get there" with that Tearus walked out the door.

It didnt take Tearus long to sniff out the Correllian Private Stock and the small off duty cantina on board the vessel. Sitting at the bar Tearus sipped his drink and slipped back in time as old memories came swimming back to him...

"Listen up boys this isn't like other times, this guy is a full fledged dark side user so we have to be cautious." Looking up from across the room a large armor clad man laughed "Tearus you give us this speech time we go out, and every time we stomp the guy and are in the bar within the hour." "Yea Tearus lighten up the last force user we took down barely scratched me" said another lightly built armored man. "Listen I just want to make sure that we all are prepared for this fight. I dont wanna have to come save your big ass again Marcellus" Tearus walked out of the room and left the other two laughing and preparing for the mission. In the other room the final man on Tearus's commando squad approached him. "Listen bro... I know your worried about this one. But its gonna be ok, we have gone up against worse than this guy. Dont worry...............

"Do you want another?" asked the barkeep. "Give me something stronger"

Tag: All Involved

Jake Vespin

Blah..blah...blah.

Jake was not overly fond of mission briefings. But he felt like he should show up to this one. A new team, put together. Might as well see what he had gotten himself into this time. At least the shuttle ride was nice. Showed they really wanted him there. So, he was at least wiling to listen to the speel.

Formal looking meeting..though he did wonder why there was a kid here. Cute kid, came out with the Captain and some guy in robes who introduced himself as some sort of Jedi.

?My name is Aldru Hedgerom, Jedi Knight. The Council has brought some interesting news to our attention...?

Intereseting to WHO, Jake wondered.

Jake listened to the general jist of things. Sounded like some Jedi had stashed what they termed 'aquatic artifacts' somewhere in some caverns beneath Imhar Canyon, on Ossus. Ehh. That sounded easy enough. Course, if there have been any cave-ins and such, they might have to dig.

"We're prepared to give you access to what we can, but we have to say that given your areas of expertise written in your personal files that some precautions should be taken." The Jedi's eyes fell upon the group of seven gathered there.

Precautions? What the frack does THAT mean? They asking them for help...

"Once we arrive at Ossus, we will give you all a map of the area itself, but despite our technology, we are unable to discern how much of the caverns are blocked by cave-ins. The tunnels beneath the Eocho Mountains have been reported as collapsed." Jake grinned from ear to ear. His type of fun. Might find something interesting after all. Wait...did he just say, once WE arrive? Jake held back a groan. Which was hard, cause the Jedi was still talking.

"We are aware that this is your first mission together, so please introduce yourselves and your role within the Task Force. We will depart for Ossus once we've gathered the necessary equipment you want requisitioned."[/i]

A guy sitting at the end of the table was the first to speak.

"So we've found a way to traverse under water?" he asked, in a rather curious tone. "'Cause if we haven't who'll be in charge of that?" Luc looked about as he awaited response.

Another man, this one older spoke up next:

"Names Tearus Jeando, I dont know how much scientific input I can provide but when the lasers start popping I'm the guy you want on your side. As far as breathing under water... There are many various breath masks available, my helmet for example provides me with two hours of oxygen before I have to switch tanks..." After a short pause Tearus stood up "Well now that thats over I will be in the bar. Call me when we get there" with that Tearus walked out the door.

Jake gave a short laugh. "Well, I see this is going to be fun. Name's Vespin." Jake looked at the group. "I like rocks. And I love turning big rocks into tiny little rocks." Jake turned, and looked at the Jedi.

"These, ah.. 'aquatic artifacts'. Does that mean they have to be stored in water? And does them fancy scanners of yours detect ANY water in those collapsed caverns?" he asked. Something wasnt adding up here. He went spelunking in many places, as he added to his collections of rocks. Something was off. He waited for a response.


TAG: Kayrek, Gahyyyrtukk, Luc, Tearus, Arco, Traya, CronaGorgon

IC: Arco Vasser
Aboard Rolling Thunder, Telos IV Orbit

Vasser listened intently to the briefing, his curiosity admittedly piqued at the mention of ancient artifacts. It went out the airlock at the mention of spelunking and / or debris clearing.

Sitting closest to the three who had entered, he maintained an attentive stance, unlike a few of the others who were reclining or even had their boots on the briefing table. Certainly wouldn't stand in a proper martial organization, he thought. But then again, Task Force Lazarus wasn't such. Though he himself was a representative of the Republic and the Senate, the others weren't necessarily to be held under such scrutiny.

The group assembled looked capable, comprised of mostly humans and even a hairless Wookiee. He had seen far more diverse groups in action on Coruscant during his time with the RSF and in his limited time as a CITADEL agent.

Given the opportunity to insert himself into the proceedings, he raised his black-gloved right hand, "Agent Arco Vasser, Defense Liaison." He gestured to the young girl that had entered along with the officer and the Jedi. "While I'm also Interested in just how we're going to be getting into what I'm assuming is an underwater office, I need to ask, what is your role on the team miss?"

The nature of Task Force Lazarus meant that it certainly had the potential to be quite dangerous, and he usually only saw girls of her age in these kinds of situations if they were hostages or refugees.

TAG: Briefing Room

Can I join? Or do I have to wait a little while?

GM Response: Hmm... sure, why not?

Just get a sheet posted and respond to the initial starter post is all I ask.

Welcome!

IC:Gahyyyrtukk
Aboard the Young Thunder, Telos IV Orbit

Gahyyyrtukk sat in the last seat in the row, because that cut the probability that someone would sit next to him by half. He had to have space between himself and other people. No, I don't have to, he told himself, a tactic his psychologists had taught him. I just prefer it.

This Aldru Hedgerom explained the situation. ?During the Old Republic, Master Anstak held onto several aquatic artifacts that had been salvaged from several worlds that those without the propensity to breathe underwater could never access." Jedi Master Gar Anstak. Mairan, lived 2,891 to 2,996 BRR. Gahyyyrtukk had read about him in Halmar Troyan's The Exar Kun War: Causes and Consequnces.

"Our surveys show that his offices are still intact, which likely means the artifacts he uncovered may still be intact as well.? Gahyyyrtukk had been apprehensive about joining a "task force" since the Republic had contacted him, but the opportunity to be first to see ancient artifacts from the Great Sith War intrigued him. But it sounded like they were underwater under a cave, or maybe a destroyed temple complex. He was barely able to make himself spend an extended period of time out-of-doors, but rampaging katarns couldn't make him dive into water that had been stagnant for 3,900 years. Who knew what kind of bacteria and fungi could be breeding in there! Gahyyyrtukk knew of at least eight examples in Republic history of plagues being released by archaeological expeditions into ruins. He didn't really see himself as a hands-on type of being anyway, despite his physical strength. Maybe he could see about staying on the ship. Gahyyyrtukk thought in passing that he should try to be more appreciative. Some of his colleagues at the Athenaeum would give their limbs to interact with artifacts like these. But a wet, subterranean cavern! ...Thinking about it made his chest feel tight.

They were on to introductions now. Gahyyyrtukk was a little hesitant to introduce himself, although he didn't doubt everyone wanted to know what a shaved Wookiee was doing on the team. He registered the others' names in his mind: Luc, Tearaus Jando, Vespin, Arco Vasser. They all seemed to be soldiers of some kind. A few of them seemed uncouth to him, but Gahyyyrtukk figured that was a good quality for soldiers. It probably meant they would be more willing to do the literal and figurative dirty work, and Gahyyyrtukk was all for that.

Gahyyyrtukk spoke up with a dull roaring for a moment, before his O9M miniaturized translator droid cut in. "My name is Gahyyyrtukk. I am a Wookiee. I am hairless because I elect to shave myself." The translator droid had a perfect Corellian accent, and simulated a matter-of-fact tone as well as it could as Gahyyyrtukk went on. He had been stared at and asked about it enough in his life to know what everyone in the room was thinking. "I am mysophobic, and I feel being hairless allows me to better manage my hygiene. I believe that's all that needs to be said about that. Corellian psychologist Carus Rodel published a dissertation discussing my condition that appeared in the Journal of Galactic Xenopsychology, Volume 368, Issue 9, pages 46 to 63. I suggest anyone who is still curious consult that publication," he said dismissively. He had heard enough stupid questions about his condition to last several lifetimes, so he preferred to nip them in the bud when meeting new people. "I would also thank you all not to touch my person. It makes me uncomfortable."

"I'm a librarian by profession. I was asked to join this task force because I'm an expert at cataloging and recording information. The Senate expects that we're going to make some discoveries out here. My job is to document and evaluate them. Once we get those artifacts I'll probably be able to date them, and if they are some sort of data storage devices I might be able to restore them. I have experience restoring old data modules and holobooks. But if I

IC: Traya Sulskye
Young Thunder

Traya listened to the mission briefing with an air of contempt. She didn't really see a point to the artifacts; it was probably one of those typical Jedi "almighty power stone" things, where they felt the need to justify a random rock as a sacred object worth sacrificing others for. But it was a job, and since she was still steamed about her termination from the construction company, this was a way to earn some money. If another organization noticed her, it could mean a big job opportunity. Better to be sae rather than sorry, she reasoned. If she worked her butt off, there was at least a possible positive outcome at the end of tunnel. If she failed, things probably couldn't get much worse, so there was almost nothing to lose.

The other members of what she assumed was Task Force Lazarus were introducing themselves. There were several human males, plus a hairless Wookiee. Traya found this rather perplexing; a bald Wookiee? If she said anything to her friends about such a sight after the project, none of them would believe her. It just wasn't normal for their race to not have trademark fur all over their bodies. As he began to speak, she raised an eyebrow. He was afraid of people touching his person? She had no problem with his skills; the Task Force could always use an archivist. It was just the combination of a furless and paranoid Wookiee that just felt odd.

As soon as the Wookiee finished speaking, Traya pulled a kinckknack out of her pocket. It was a miniature eyeglass; not really useful for any practical purpose, but more of a memento from her military days. She never felt complete without it, and in tiems of stress, she would let it slide between her fingers to try and distract herself from the surrounding atmosphere. At this point, she felt some of the people in the room give her a look. Still gripping the eyeglass, she began to speak in a monotone, dull voice that was alsost devoid of life. She just didn't care that much.

"Name's Traya Sulskye, scout extraordinaire." She hated introductions. What a waste of time. "You need a scout, a lookout, I'm the one who you want. Got lots of experience going ahead and finding things." She stopped at this, because she really didn't feel the urge to divulge any more information than she felt was necessary. It was rude to be so passive, but she didn't care. Introductions were for losers; she couldn't really care less about your name unless forced to. Being in the military hadn't changed her much; she let her work do the talking.

TAG: Everyone, GM

IC: Kayrek
Location: Aboard the Young Thunder

Kayrek took a look around the debriefing room as he walked slowly in.
several humans and a shaved wookiee stood and one by one introduced themselves.
this group looked....odd, he thought, nothing like the military group he had been expecting. still, one of his strong points was adaptability in battle, and this would be no different.

he walked in just in time to catch the last part of the mission briefing from a Jedi.
?....Ossus. Recent bathymetric surveys have revealed that in the caverns beneath Imhar Canyon hold something very precious in terms of historical value,? The hologram zoomed in on the canyon itself, revealing several rocky areas that look to be quite dangerous. ?During the Old Republic, Master Anstak held onto several aquatic artifacts that had been salvaged from several worlds that those without the propensity to breathe underwater could never access. Our surveys show that his offices are still intact, which likely means the artifacts he uncovered may still be intact as well.?

Kayrek shifted a little when he heard this mission was going to be underwater. he hated getting his fur wet, but he would adapt. or he would die trying. he looked around at the group, taking a closer look. his green eyes settled on one man, who introduced himself as Arco Vasser. Kayrek dug through his memories. he had a feeling he had heard the name before, but could not place how. then the name snapped into focus and recognized this man as one of the CITADEL agents. he had the urge to salute, but held it down. he held A high degree of respect for the CITADEL agents and what they stood for. this man, Arco Vasser, was probably here on the organization's behalf to keep tabs.

He spoke for the first time since he had walked into the debriefing room. "My name is Kayrek, military tactics and Surgical strike operations are what I do."
he took a seat towards the end of the table and looked toward the Jedi. this team would be.....interesting.

TAG: Arco, Cronagorgon, Any

Aldru Hedgerom, Syfin Iobdys, ???

Telos IV Orbit / Consular-class Republic Cruiser Young Thunder / Debriefing Room

Each question brought a smile to both the Jedi and the Captains faces. This meant that there was at least some interest in the mission. Their introductions also meant that there were niches that were definitely filled, perhaps due to the number of applicants qualifying for various roles within exploratory teams.

However when the Mandalorian strode from the room towards the bar, Hedgerom turned to look at the Captain as if to ask if they should be concerned. Iobdys only shook his head and returned his attention to the group.

?Our information shows that over 70% of the caverns have been submerged. We've currently got two options given our situation,? Iobdys brought up a much smaller holo of the canyon, focusing on two points. The first point was a collapsed entry beneath the Eocho Mountains. ?SoroSuub has lent us some mining equipment in order to reopen the collapsed tunnels. Drilling machines, explosives and the like. The drilling could take some time and though the explosives will clear a majority of the fallen rock from the caverns, the chance of them collapsing even further without proper supports is also hanging over our heads.?

The holo then switched to a spot in Imhar Canyon. ?This route however would take longer to travel on foot, but would lead into one of the flooded caverns. Smaller underwater charges are recommended here... they will serve as a way to clear a path towards the sunken offices." Iobdys turned his eyes to Jake Vespin

?They don't need to be stored in water, but given their relevant age, a gentle touch should be applied.? The Zygerrian captain flexed his shoulders as he allowed the Jedi to continue where he left off.

?We've acquired sturdy underwater environmental suits for each of you once you reach the flooded caverns. The air supply will last close to four standard hours with a backup tank to add an additional hour on top of that. The digging aboveground won't require the use of the suits immediately, but should you decide to go though the opening in the canyon it may be a good idea to have them ready.? Aldru turned his eyes to the archivist Gahyyyrtukk.

?I regret to say, friend, that in order to discern what would be of any value be it historical or monetary, your firsthand experience would be needed. We've noted your condition and have prepped your suit accordingly to accommodate you.?

?Excuse me, Master Jedi. I have to relay this information to our friend whom I believe is in the ships bar. Iobdys bowed his head and exited the room as a Bith attendant strode in and passed out a pad to each of the Agents.

?This is a requisition form. Please fill out what you may need for this mission specifically. All of our storage units on Telos contain a variety of commonplace and military grade items, but keep in mind this isn't a Black Market so we may not be able to get everything you wanted.?

It was then that someone spoke not to the Jedi or the Captain, but to the girl who was with them. The blonde girl perked up at the slightest bit of attention as she began to speak, her fingers brushing strands of hair behind her ear.

?Im--?

?My daughter.? Aldru interrupted as the girl shied away and became her silent self again. ?Corynne. I wasn't going to say anything before we arrived at Ossus, but she will also be going with you on this mission.?

The preteen shot her ?father? a look of surprise as if this was news to her as well, her mouth open in shock. The same look likely painted the faces of those who weren't keen on bringing a young girl with them on an underwater mission.

TAG: Briefing room

* * *

Captain Syfin Iobdys, Barkeep Jaltuul

Telos IV O