The Mod Journal (
spaceshipit) wrote in
driftfleet_ooc2018-08-21 08:08 am
Entry tags:
August/September Star System
The customer is always right - until such a time that they very clearly are not.
CALENDAR:
→ The fleet will be in this star system from 8/21 to 9/11.
→ NOTE: This is a slightly shorter system time than usual, but the following drift period will be the standard amount of time, and the next system will be back to roughly a full month event.
→ An announcement from Atroma will go up on 8/22. We will not be posting any mingles, so please feel free to post your own!
The Hessia-Helix System.

A lonely little dust ball
A Plain Planet ...
The fleet pops out of drift near a rather bland-looking planet: a sphere of almost a single color hanging in the stars like a decorative orb. This is Xanner I - a solitary planet that probably wouldn't stand out at all if the fleet wasn't heading directly for it. From afar, it looks like nothing special - and as the ships get closer, "nothing special" seems more and more accurate. Any scans will show it really is just a ball of rock, dust, and sand. LOTS of sand. There is no water, and there is so little atmosphere that it couldn't support life without a lot of engineering (which, it seems, some people have attempted?), terraforming, and/or probably a few decades of time. On the bright side - no atmosphere and no civilization means the view of the stars from the surface is absolutely, breathtakingly beautiful! But if you want to go stargazing, please keep a helmet on, for your own safety.

Everyone's up in the stars!
... With A Far More Interesting Starscape
Even though the planet is pretty barren, there's still a healthy amount of air and space traffic around this system, and it's all coming in and out of a series of space stations! There are 4 major space stations at different orbital points around Xanner I, and each major space station has some number of tinier stations around it, creating 4 networks of bustling orbital cities.
A System-Wide Problem
With so many commercial hubs, so many people coming and going, and the high number of imports and exports going in and out at all times, there are bound to be less-than-legal goings on despite everyone's best efforts. Unfortunately, in the Hessia-Helix system, it's far more serious than just the occasional black market operation. Piracy, smuggling, and illegal trade are all major, rampant problems in this system. There are multiple reports of ships being held-up, boarded, and robbed. In the worst cases, some of those ships are even destroyed.
Luckily, data provided to those with Communications augments includes known safe travel routes, safe ports and orbital cities, and all the local information on how to not get the attention of these space criminals.
Of course, it's up to each individual ship to decide if they're going to follow those safety guidelines or not. It is perfectly possible to ignore all information and fly wherever you please within the system, though you do so at your own risk. Additionally, some brave, virtuous types might even blatantly go out of their way to bring some of these criminals to justice! Feel free to go for it! You can engage in any sort of combat with the criminals that you want: ship battles, hand-to-hand battles on either Fleet ships or pirate ships, or perhaps you'll be able to track down pirate hideaway camps at the fringes of more seedy orbital cities - or even possibly on the planet! (If they're super rich pirates capable of creating air-locked bases, but hey, anything's possible out here!)
Should anyone choose to bring pirates in, locals will be super grateful for the help, even if some of the law enforcement officers might be a little grumbly that someone's doing a better job than they are... still, you will be celebrated! Perhaps given discounts!
We would like to take this moment to remind everyone that if you plan to do something that will affect your entire ship, such as having it boarded by pirates or using it to chase down criminals in this system, be courteous to your fellow crew and ask everyone involved. There are many ways to make sure everyone can have the kind of fun that they want. If you need mod assistance to help talk it out, don't hesitate to contact us.
After all, if a ship is going to get itself beat up in the name of vigilante justice, better to have it be in a system where parts aren't scarce and repairs are possible, right?
Drift Fleet: A Courier Service?
After a short time in the system - a little over a full 24-hour period or so - Atroma will take to the network to broadcast a word from our sponsors! Well, more like a request from your hosts... There is an important shipment that needs to make it from this system to the next, and you, dear Fleet, get to be the ones to get the precious cargo from point A to point B! You'll do it, won't you~?
Older fleeters might remember the delivery of gumballs that happened once before, so this might feel a little familiar...
The instructions for pick-up left by the hosts will guide you to a very public, very busy dock in one of the stations around (pick a random cluster-center i don't care). There, the captain (and first mate, if desired) of the ship will find a pre-programmed robot with limited capacity for interaction, designed only to ask for and record the captain's name, the ship name, and whether or not the cargo has been accepted. Once that's done, you're free to load up the cargo into your ship. Simple as that!
The cargo consists of two (2) sealed metal crates per ship, roughly 3 x 4 x 3 ft in dimensions. There are digital locks on the lids - two each - that look pretty easy to break into for an engineer or a communications augment, if you really want to do so... but the hosts have so very kindly asked you to keep them closed! So you'd never think of snooping, right?
If you do open the crates while still in this system, you'll only catch a brief glimpse of a pile of something beautifully rainbow-colored and bright before it all completely disintegrates and disappears - almost like remote teleportation! A pre-recorded message will play: "The contents of this crate has been insured by the local authorities. Illegal tampering with this contents while in the jurisdiction of the local authorities has resulted in the contents being relocated to a new crate at the original pick-up location. Please see an associate to obtain a replacement." The message will repeat before all electronics attached to the crate shut off. Too bad... guess you should go pick up another one, huh?
There are several ways this can go! We are listing a few, and their ultimate consequences, below. These consequences will be scattered throughout this system, the next drift period, and the next system. Use these to make a decision with your shipmates of what you'd like to do!
A ship does not pick up the cargo: Nothing will happen during this system or during the next drift period. However, failure to deliver cargo in the next system means you can't claim the reward! Also, you flat-out won't get your next regular credits payout!! Atroma will claim it's a glitch, but you know better. greedy corporations...
A ship picks up the cargo, leaves it unopened: There will be a reward for you in the next system - a sizeable hunk of credits for everyone assigned to your ship!! Maybe even an extra surprise, depending on how good of a mood they're in by that point~
A ship picks up the cargo and opens it WHILE IN THIS SYSTEM: As stated above, the contents disappears. You'll have to go get another one and promise to leave this replacement alone... You'll also have to pay a small fee of credits for this replacement. Whoops.
A ship picks up the cargo and opens it ONCE THE FLEET ENTERS THE NEXT DRIFT PERIOD: Congrats! You've found a way around the insurance set-up! Once outside of the system, it doesn't work anymore! (I know, how secure, right? Gosh.) The actual contents of the crates will be revealed in an informational post during the drift, if any ships choose to do this. *** Doing this will cause certain types of augment glitches for a short period of time, affecting all characters aboard that ship, after opening!! (with opt-outs, don't worry) More details will be given then.
A ship picks up the cargo but oh no, pirates steal it! (oh darn.): Well, it's up to you!! Do you go get it back? Do you simply go request a replacement? Or do you just let them take the cargo because it so isn't your problem~? The choice is yours.
An important reminder: what you do with the cargo will affect your crewmates, one way or another. We want to emphasize that communication is important, especially since we want everyone to have a good time, however they want to have it. With that in mind, please talk it over with your crew before you make any decision about the cargo. You are free to use this OOC post to coordinate for the sake of ease.
You could also coordinate between ships, if you'd like - maybe designate one ship to attempt to open things, while others play it safe or don't grab the cargo at all? Again, that's your decision! We'll answer any questions and provide any information as necessary.
Whatever your decision, please respond to the comment below with what your ship would like to do concerning the delivery cargo. We just want a general idea of what's up. If you change your mind, just edit or respond to your own comment. No worries!
Points of Interest.
The Planet - Xanner 1
If you want to check out what the planet has to offer, well... it doesn't have much, so it will likely be a short trip. Even most all of the useful resources this planet had to offer have long since been mined and taken away. However, if sand is your thing, you've come to the right place! Xanner has plenty of sand - swirls of black, gray, and some shimmery silvery colors blend together to cover the entire surface, no matter what altitude. It's layers thick, and can be a little hard to traverse if you don't have great shoes for sand-walking! There is so much sand, you'd think there used to be an ocean around here somewhere! And maybe there was, eons and eons ago, but it's certainly not here now. Just sand. The atmosphere is very thin and unbreathable, so exploration of the planet without a helmet is impossible. Luckily, this also means there is very little wind, so at least the sand won't be blown into your eyes! There's still enough of it to get all over and into everything and everywhere else, though. So much sand... Still, some might like the absolute lack of civilization - and the view of the stars sure is nice at all hours.
There are some bands of pirates, smugglers, exiles, or other criminals that are ingenious enough to have bases on the surface that are air-locked and can support life inside! Most, however, do not - so if you stumble across a base down here, it is safe to assume those inside are more resourceful, prepared, and probably better armed than your average space pirate. You're welcome to bust 'em up, if you so choose - or maybe loot them for yourselves. Two wrongs make a right, right? Right. Totally.
Kernyx + Surrounding Stations
The large station Kernyx is warm and dry, but not intolerable. It and its surrounding cluster are kept a little hotter than the normal Fleet ambient temperature, with an abundance of dry shrub, big flat rocks, and other typical desert features in artificial biomes throughout. Processed sunlight filters in from above to complete the illusion. Some buildings are even given a reflective white-glass look to better suit the desert.
Trade filters in at all hours thanks to the Nunnilis who have made their homes here. Their natural gift for all things mercantile also makes them a huge target for pirates, unfortunately, especially since they don’t like to fight back. Still, they’re happy to go at length about the particular qualities of scrap metal, appraise gems, and answer any burning financial questions one might have-- you can make up your own NPCs for this purpose.
As on the other stations, there is a wide variety in the population here, including orange-skinned humans with blonde or black hair, the four-legged Co’kal, and a smattering of others with multiple frilly ears or trunks on their faces. If you need any NPCs, feel free to get creative!
Relnyx + Surrounding Stations
Relnyx is the largest and roomiest of the four major space stations, and that wide-open feeling is consistent throughout its little network of ships and stations around it. Temperatures here are nice and moderate, and if you feel a heavy deal of moisture in the air, that's because a lot of effort has been put into various waterscapes, public pools/falls, and elaborate fountains. Decorations tend to be colorful and multi-patterned around these parts, with influences from all sorts of backgrounds and cultures from every far corner of space imaginable. If you want a fancy, artistic, imported art or furniture piece to spice up your bedroom or ship, this is the shopping destination of choice for you!
May of the residents here are the kind who prefer to be in the water than on land. You'll run into quite a large number of the Dasioe here, though there are a fair number of other alien species running around, too. Again, feel free to be creative!
Nornyx + Surrounding Stations
There is a lot to see and do in Nornyx and its surrounding stations. It's certainly the busiest of the four clusters, and perhaps the flashiest and most urban. Architecture here tends toward rigid lines, sharp points, and sleek exteriors - chrome and shine contrasted with bright and colorful neon lights to guide everyone around. While nightlife throughout the entire system is incredibly lively and active, it's especially big here. Nornyx itself tends to be a party central! We're not saying that the laws for getting your groove on are more relaxed around here, but people are at least more likely to turn a blind eye.
Party time aside, other things get a little bit ignored around here, too... here is where you'll find shadier dealings, if you're curious. ... Or if you're looking to track down some pirates to bust up. You'll find some pretty good leads and tips around here, for sure.
In this cluster, there doesn't seem to be any one obvious majority as far as alien species go - you'll find just about anyone and everyone here! Despite the major-city vibe and the impression that this whole cluster never sleeps, the people are still mostly polite and welcoming. They've even won a few intergalactic hospitality awards in the past! So that's nice!
Tarnyx + Surrounding Stations
If Tarnyx seems a bit cleaner and newer, with fewer stations surrounding it than the others, that's because it's the most recent addition! It hasn't even been two whole decades yet since its official opening to the public for business and residency. They're clearly still trying to figure out how to make a real name for themselves to separate them from the other clusters, but since there's no real consensus, themes and things seem a little... mismatched... throughout. At least it's impossible to be boring if there are so many different things going on.
There's a weird balance here between lawfulness and lawlessness. There are laws, and they are enforced, and it is about as effective as it is anywhere else in the system! But, as new as they are, they do lack the defenses to withstand much in the way of piracy raids. They could use a helping hand for sure - maybe even some guidance and advice, if you have any to give! Ever thought about turning your military, government, or law enforcement expertise into consulting?
Junk at the Outskirts
A bit further from the planet and the cluster of space stations lies what the locals call ‘the trash belt’. This is an apt name, as it’s dotted with old asteroids, abandoned space wrecks, and other miscellaneous scrap and salvage. There’s no law here, nor any real authority; this is where some of the pirates have set up base if they don’t like sand getting everywhere. (Because tiny space rocks hurtling at thousands of miles per hour is so much better.)
Other than pirates, there are a few hermits who just do their thing, fishing out refuse and hoping they can make a dime. There isn’t much to see unless you’re a hardcore salvager or you’re looking for the fighting kind of scrapping (against the pirates, of course). Be aware of navigating through all that junk!
Shopping:
Considering that the planet is kind of uninhabitable, that leaves shopping as everyone’s favorite thing to do! There are different goods and different flavors of food depending on which space station you go to. For the most variety of stuff, the mixing pot Relnyx is your best bet. For something expensive and specialized, Kernyx is a good place to start. And for something that may or may not be legal, well… Nornyx is party destination for more than one kind of party.
As for weapons: pirates have them, and people need to defend themselves from the pirates somehow! However, there isn't anything special in these parts. Firearms are relatively basic, firing photon projectiles over average distances. Blades are just as simply made, mostly just sharpened metal that's serrated when proper/requested. Any photon-based blades are only the size of a long dagger - legally, anyway. You could maybe loot something longer off of a pirate, but it's still not likely.
Jobs
Job opportunities around here are fairly standard: retail, food service, entry-level admin or marketing... If you want to put your ship or a shuttle to work as well, many merchants would gladly hire you on for a delivery job or two! (Especially since that probably means they don't have to pay extra security fees, docking fees, and the like because clearly as a tourist, you don't about those!) More fight-y types could find work as bodyguards, security detail, or bouncers outside of bars and nightclubs. No matter the job you nab, perks around here are pretty nice. They know how to treat their employees well in this system!
On the... less than legal side of things, all of this piracy sure is going on all of the time. You could probably dip your toes into it for yourself, if you really want - but do you?
There's also the route of JUSTICE!!! Go out and be a hero! Bring those pirates in alive, make them face the law and return their stolen goods! Or, well, there's always the darker side of things. Maybe you believe in stealing back what's already been stolen, or that a criminal's life is forefit in certain situations -- who are we to judge? Do what you think needs doing, but whatever you do, be sure you're ready for the consequences. OOCly speaking: we trust you all to handle said fallout and consequences however you deem necessary for your characters' actions. Jail time, a hero's celebration, wanted posters, medals of honor... go for it. But if you do want to talk it over with us, just to be sure, go ahead and reach out to us. We're happy to help!
Recreation
Oh? Is VIGILANTE JUSTICE!!! not enough, or not your kind of thing? Don't worry, there are other things to do than beating up pirate-y types!
If the watery aesthetic of Relnyx makes you want to go for a swim, you can! There are all kinds of public pools, artificial beaches, and full-featured water parks scattered about the cluster! Crazy water slides, huge pools, sandy "shores" by the salty waves... they have it all. Grab a swimsuit and go have some fun!
Prefer the city life? Enjoy going out at night? There's plenty of that everywhere in the system, with many different themes, attitudes, aesthetics, and energy levels, depending on your preference. You'll find anything from casual lounges (smoking or smoke-free), to music-themed bars and clubs, to adult-oriented entertainment just about anywhere! Nornyx is, of course, the reigning party capital of the whole system, so if you think you can hang with theyoung, constantly drunk, partying hard and staying out till dawn hard crowd, be their guest! We're sure you'll fit right in if you want.
Besides the above, perhaps the most romantic activity (with a side of danger, depending on the location) is stargazing. The view from the sandy planet is unblemished by city lights, guaranteeing that you can see every speck and spot of galactic dust painting the sky. The stars can be seen from the space stations, too, and it’s a lot less risky, but the view is somewhat restricted by which direction the station is pointing at that time. For thrillseekers, a little jaunt down to the planet’s surface (with helmets!) is worth the danger.
Have a question? Feel free to reach out to us in the comment thread below!
CALENDAR:
→ The fleet will be in this star system from 8/21 to 9/11.
→ NOTE: This is a slightly shorter system time than usual, but the following drift period will be the standard amount of time, and the next system will be back to roughly a full month event.
→ An announcement from Atroma will go up on 8/22. We will not be posting any mingles, so please feel free to post your own!
The Hessia-Helix System.

A lonely little dust ball
A Plain Planet ...
The fleet pops out of drift near a rather bland-looking planet: a sphere of almost a single color hanging in the stars like a decorative orb. This is Xanner I - a solitary planet that probably wouldn't stand out at all if the fleet wasn't heading directly for it. From afar, it looks like nothing special - and as the ships get closer, "nothing special" seems more and more accurate. Any scans will show it really is just a ball of rock, dust, and sand. LOTS of sand. There is no water, and there is so little atmosphere that it couldn't support life without a lot of engineering (which, it seems, some people have attempted?), terraforming, and/or probably a few decades of time. On the bright side - no atmosphere and no civilization means the view of the stars from the surface is absolutely, breathtakingly beautiful! But if you want to go stargazing, please keep a helmet on, for your own safety.

Everyone's up in the stars!
... With A Far More Interesting Starscape
Even though the planet is pretty barren, there's still a healthy amount of air and space traffic around this system, and it's all coming in and out of a series of space stations! There are 4 major space stations at different orbital points around Xanner I, and each major space station has some number of tinier stations around it, creating 4 networks of bustling orbital cities.
A System-Wide Problem
With so many commercial hubs, so many people coming and going, and the high number of imports and exports going in and out at all times, there are bound to be less-than-legal goings on despite everyone's best efforts. Unfortunately, in the Hessia-Helix system, it's far more serious than just the occasional black market operation. Piracy, smuggling, and illegal trade are all major, rampant problems in this system. There are multiple reports of ships being held-up, boarded, and robbed. In the worst cases, some of those ships are even destroyed.
Luckily, data provided to those with Communications augments includes known safe travel routes, safe ports and orbital cities, and all the local information on how to not get the attention of these space criminals.
Of course, it's up to each individual ship to decide if they're going to follow those safety guidelines or not. It is perfectly possible to ignore all information and fly wherever you please within the system, though you do so at your own risk. Additionally, some brave, virtuous types might even blatantly go out of their way to bring some of these criminals to justice! Feel free to go for it! You can engage in any sort of combat with the criminals that you want: ship battles, hand-to-hand battles on either Fleet ships or pirate ships, or perhaps you'll be able to track down pirate hideaway camps at the fringes of more seedy orbital cities - or even possibly on the planet! (If they're super rich pirates capable of creating air-locked bases, but hey, anything's possible out here!)
Should anyone choose to bring pirates in, locals will be super grateful for the help, even if some of the law enforcement officers might be a little grumbly that someone's doing a better job than they are... still, you will be celebrated! Perhaps given discounts!
We would like to take this moment to remind everyone that if you plan to do something that will affect your entire ship, such as having it boarded by pirates or using it to chase down criminals in this system, be courteous to your fellow crew and ask everyone involved. There are many ways to make sure everyone can have the kind of fun that they want. If you need mod assistance to help talk it out, don't hesitate to contact us.
After all, if a ship is going to get itself beat up in the name of vigilante justice, better to have it be in a system where parts aren't scarce and repairs are possible, right?
Drift Fleet: A Courier Service?
After a short time in the system - a little over a full 24-hour period or so - Atroma will take to the network to broadcast a word from our sponsors! Well, more like a request from your hosts... There is an important shipment that needs to make it from this system to the next, and you, dear Fleet, get to be the ones to get the precious cargo from point A to point B! You'll do it, won't you~?
Older fleeters might remember the delivery of gumballs that happened once before, so this might feel a little familiar...
The instructions for pick-up left by the hosts will guide you to a very public, very busy dock in one of the stations around (pick a random cluster-center i don't care). There, the captain (and first mate, if desired) of the ship will find a pre-programmed robot with limited capacity for interaction, designed only to ask for and record the captain's name, the ship name, and whether or not the cargo has been accepted. Once that's done, you're free to load up the cargo into your ship. Simple as that!
The cargo consists of two (2) sealed metal crates per ship, roughly 3 x 4 x 3 ft in dimensions. There are digital locks on the lids - two each - that look pretty easy to break into for an engineer or a communications augment, if you really want to do so... but the hosts have so very kindly asked you to keep them closed! So you'd never think of snooping, right?
If you do open the crates while still in this system, you'll only catch a brief glimpse of a pile of something beautifully rainbow-colored and bright before it all completely disintegrates and disappears - almost like remote teleportation! A pre-recorded message will play: "The contents of this crate has been insured by the local authorities. Illegal tampering with this contents while in the jurisdiction of the local authorities has resulted in the contents being relocated to a new crate at the original pick-up location. Please see an associate to obtain a replacement." The message will repeat before all electronics attached to the crate shut off. Too bad... guess you should go pick up another one, huh?
There are several ways this can go! We are listing a few, and their ultimate consequences, below. These consequences will be scattered throughout this system, the next drift period, and the next system. Use these to make a decision with your shipmates of what you'd like to do!
An important reminder: what you do with the cargo will affect your crewmates, one way or another. We want to emphasize that communication is important, especially since we want everyone to have a good time, however they want to have it. With that in mind, please talk it over with your crew before you make any decision about the cargo. You are free to use this OOC post to coordinate for the sake of ease.
You could also coordinate between ships, if you'd like - maybe designate one ship to attempt to open things, while others play it safe or don't grab the cargo at all? Again, that's your decision! We'll answer any questions and provide any information as necessary.
Whatever your decision, please respond to the comment below with what your ship would like to do concerning the delivery cargo. We just want a general idea of what's up. If you change your mind, just edit or respond to your own comment. No worries!
Points of Interest.
The Planet - Xanner 1
If you want to check out what the planet has to offer, well... it doesn't have much, so it will likely be a short trip. Even most all of the useful resources this planet had to offer have long since been mined and taken away. However, if sand is your thing, you've come to the right place! Xanner has plenty of sand - swirls of black, gray, and some shimmery silvery colors blend together to cover the entire surface, no matter what altitude. It's layers thick, and can be a little hard to traverse if you don't have great shoes for sand-walking! There is so much sand, you'd think there used to be an ocean around here somewhere! And maybe there was, eons and eons ago, but it's certainly not here now. Just sand. The atmosphere is very thin and unbreathable, so exploration of the planet without a helmet is impossible. Luckily, this also means there is very little wind, so at least the sand won't be blown into your eyes! There's still enough of it to get all over and into everything and everywhere else, though. So much sand... Still, some might like the absolute lack of civilization - and the view of the stars sure is nice at all hours.
There are some bands of pirates, smugglers, exiles, or other criminals that are ingenious enough to have bases on the surface that are air-locked and can support life inside! Most, however, do not - so if you stumble across a base down here, it is safe to assume those inside are more resourceful, prepared, and probably better armed than your average space pirate. You're welcome to bust 'em up, if you so choose - or maybe loot them for yourselves. Two wrongs make a right, right? Right. Totally.
Kernyx + Surrounding Stations
The large station Kernyx is warm and dry, but not intolerable. It and its surrounding cluster are kept a little hotter than the normal Fleet ambient temperature, with an abundance of dry shrub, big flat rocks, and other typical desert features in artificial biomes throughout. Processed sunlight filters in from above to complete the illusion. Some buildings are even given a reflective white-glass look to better suit the desert.
Trade filters in at all hours thanks to the Nunnilis who have made their homes here. Their natural gift for all things mercantile also makes them a huge target for pirates, unfortunately, especially since they don’t like to fight back. Still, they’re happy to go at length about the particular qualities of scrap metal, appraise gems, and answer any burning financial questions one might have-- you can make up your own NPCs for this purpose.
As on the other stations, there is a wide variety in the population here, including orange-skinned humans with blonde or black hair, the four-legged Co’kal, and a smattering of others with multiple frilly ears or trunks on their faces. If you need any NPCs, feel free to get creative!
Relnyx + Surrounding Stations
Relnyx is the largest and roomiest of the four major space stations, and that wide-open feeling is consistent throughout its little network of ships and stations around it. Temperatures here are nice and moderate, and if you feel a heavy deal of moisture in the air, that's because a lot of effort has been put into various waterscapes, public pools/falls, and elaborate fountains. Decorations tend to be colorful and multi-patterned around these parts, with influences from all sorts of backgrounds and cultures from every far corner of space imaginable. If you want a fancy, artistic, imported art or furniture piece to spice up your bedroom or ship, this is the shopping destination of choice for you!
May of the residents here are the kind who prefer to be in the water than on land. You'll run into quite a large number of the Dasioe here, though there are a fair number of other alien species running around, too. Again, feel free to be creative!
Nornyx + Surrounding Stations
There is a lot to see and do in Nornyx and its surrounding stations. It's certainly the busiest of the four clusters, and perhaps the flashiest and most urban. Architecture here tends toward rigid lines, sharp points, and sleek exteriors - chrome and shine contrasted with bright and colorful neon lights to guide everyone around. While nightlife throughout the entire system is incredibly lively and active, it's especially big here. Nornyx itself tends to be a party central! We're not saying that the laws for getting your groove on are more relaxed around here, but people are at least more likely to turn a blind eye.
Party time aside, other things get a little bit ignored around here, too... here is where you'll find shadier dealings, if you're curious. ... Or if you're looking to track down some pirates to bust up. You'll find some pretty good leads and tips around here, for sure.
In this cluster, there doesn't seem to be any one obvious majority as far as alien species go - you'll find just about anyone and everyone here! Despite the major-city vibe and the impression that this whole cluster never sleeps, the people are still mostly polite and welcoming. They've even won a few intergalactic hospitality awards in the past! So that's nice!
Tarnyx + Surrounding Stations
If Tarnyx seems a bit cleaner and newer, with fewer stations surrounding it than the others, that's because it's the most recent addition! It hasn't even been two whole decades yet since its official opening to the public for business and residency. They're clearly still trying to figure out how to make a real name for themselves to separate them from the other clusters, but since there's no real consensus, themes and things seem a little... mismatched... throughout. At least it's impossible to be boring if there are so many different things going on.
There's a weird balance here between lawfulness and lawlessness. There are laws, and they are enforced, and it is about as effective as it is anywhere else in the system! But, as new as they are, they do lack the defenses to withstand much in the way of piracy raids. They could use a helping hand for sure - maybe even some guidance and advice, if you have any to give! Ever thought about turning your military, government, or law enforcement expertise into consulting?
Junk at the Outskirts
A bit further from the planet and the cluster of space stations lies what the locals call ‘the trash belt’. This is an apt name, as it’s dotted with old asteroids, abandoned space wrecks, and other miscellaneous scrap and salvage. There’s no law here, nor any real authority; this is where some of the pirates have set up base if they don’t like sand getting everywhere. (Because tiny space rocks hurtling at thousands of miles per hour is so much better.)
Other than pirates, there are a few hermits who just do their thing, fishing out refuse and hoping they can make a dime. There isn’t much to see unless you’re a hardcore salvager or you’re looking for the fighting kind of scrapping (against the pirates, of course). Be aware of navigating through all that junk!
Shopping:
Considering that the planet is kind of uninhabitable, that leaves shopping as everyone’s favorite thing to do! There are different goods and different flavors of food depending on which space station you go to. For the most variety of stuff, the mixing pot Relnyx is your best bet. For something expensive and specialized, Kernyx is a good place to start. And for something that may or may not be legal, well… Nornyx is party destination for more than one kind of party.
As for weapons: pirates have them, and people need to defend themselves from the pirates somehow! However, there isn't anything special in these parts. Firearms are relatively basic, firing photon projectiles over average distances. Blades are just as simply made, mostly just sharpened metal that's serrated when proper/requested. Any photon-based blades are only the size of a long dagger - legally, anyway. You could maybe loot something longer off of a pirate, but it's still not likely.
Jobs
Job opportunities around here are fairly standard: retail, food service, entry-level admin or marketing... If you want to put your ship or a shuttle to work as well, many merchants would gladly hire you on for a delivery job or two! (Especially since that probably means they don't have to pay extra security fees, docking fees, and the like because clearly as a tourist, you don't about those!) More fight-y types could find work as bodyguards, security detail, or bouncers outside of bars and nightclubs. No matter the job you nab, perks around here are pretty nice. They know how to treat their employees well in this system!
On the... less than legal side of things, all of this piracy sure is going on all of the time. You could probably dip your toes into it for yourself, if you really want - but do you?
There's also the route of JUSTICE!!! Go out and be a hero! Bring those pirates in alive, make them face the law and return their stolen goods! Or, well, there's always the darker side of things. Maybe you believe in stealing back what's already been stolen, or that a criminal's life is forefit in certain situations -- who are we to judge? Do what you think needs doing, but whatever you do, be sure you're ready for the consequences. OOCly speaking: we trust you all to handle said fallout and consequences however you deem necessary for your characters' actions. Jail time, a hero's celebration, wanted posters, medals of honor... go for it. But if you do want to talk it over with us, just to be sure, go ahead and reach out to us. We're happy to help!
Recreation
Oh? Is VIGILANTE JUSTICE!!! not enough, or not your kind of thing? Don't worry, there are other things to do than beating up pirate-y types!
If the watery aesthetic of Relnyx makes you want to go for a swim, you can! There are all kinds of public pools, artificial beaches, and full-featured water parks scattered about the cluster! Crazy water slides, huge pools, sandy "shores" by the salty waves... they have it all. Grab a swimsuit and go have some fun!
Prefer the city life? Enjoy going out at night? There's plenty of that everywhere in the system, with many different themes, attitudes, aesthetics, and energy levels, depending on your preference. You'll find anything from casual lounges (smoking or smoke-free), to music-themed bars and clubs, to adult-oriented entertainment just about anywhere! Nornyx is, of course, the reigning party capital of the whole system, so if you think you can hang with the
Besides the above, perhaps the most romantic activity (with a side of danger, depending on the location) is stargazing. The view from the sandy planet is unblemished by city lights, guaranteeing that you can see every speck and spot of galactic dust painting the sky. The stars can be seen from the space stations, too, and it’s a lot less risky, but the view is somewhat restricted by which direction the station is pointing at that time. For thrillseekers, a little jaunt down to the planet’s surface (with helmets!) is worth the danger.
Have a question? Feel free to reach out to us in the comment thread below!

ATROMA SHIPMENTS
Vanquish
Katie pls
Bloodsport
Twin Roses
Also, generally planning to keep/hide or possibly destroy the cargo rather than actually delivering any of it for the Atroma though that could change depending on what the reveal of the cargo actually is.
Red Fish
We'll bypass security by waiting to crack that thing open until next drift period and then potentially suffer some glitch effects for the consequences.
BLAMELESS
Wonderduck
Also defending against a pirate attack, for kicks. Why not~
Will edit if plans change!
QUESTIONS?
Re: QUESTIONS?
1. Can the cargo be opened by breaking the box or only by communications/engineer?
2. If we choose to break it in the system and get a new one to deliver, do we still get the reward?
3. What happens in Nornyx stays in Nornyx?
no subject
1) You're welcome to break it open! The contents will still vanish, and the same message will play twice before all electronics on the box turn off.
2) You certainly can! You can even crack it open outside the system, attempt to re-seal it, and deliver the re-sealed box to clam the reward! Though of course, once the contents is revealed, who knows how you'll feel about turning it over... Dun dun dun~ No, in all seriousness, there will be more info come drift time, if that's the route you want to go.
3) You bet it does ♪
no subject
...I mean I assume the cargo would all vanish anyway, but she's stubborn and would do this like six times before she grumbles and stops
and does it again when they leaveno subject
at least her stubbornness will pay off and it will actually work once they leave the system!no subject
2- You mention furniture! If someone wanted, could they get something like a new bed or couch?
no subject
2) You can certainly get yourself a new bed or couch! But! Please remember that the shuttles are small, and most doorways in ships are even smaller -- ladders and narrow ship stairs will be an obstacle as well. If you can circumvent these problems with float-y magics/techs/skills, or if you're feeling particularly stubborn, then those might not be problems for you! (There's also potential for some hijinks there, for sure, like couches stuck angled in doorways...) Otherwise, there's probably a "space IKEA" somewhere in this system. You can bring home boxes of parts and put them together yourself!
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Otherwise, you're welcome to fit the cargo into a shuttle, or maybe tie it to the back of the shuttle and tug it along tugboat-style. Whatever is more interesting to you, go for it.
Re: QUESTIONS?
Can you help refresh my memory with the gumballs. If I'm remembering right the fleet dropped the cargo off where it was suppose to go last time. Then later on they got to a planet that the terraforming equipment wasn't working. (Pretty sure it was the toxic moon, but I could be mistaken). Eventually finding out that it was gunky and needed new gumballs.
Which I believe were supplied? I can't remember if the people of the planet bought their own or if people had hidden gumballs that were offered.
Is that about right? Or did that happened before the delivery was made and that's how the terraformer started working again.
Can you help clear my memory? Otherwise I'm not going to get a chance to go back through the old mod posts myself for a few more days now. (Which I am perfectly happy to do if this question gives away too much/is asking too much.)
Thanks mod team!
no subject
The fleet picked up the gumballs in one system (linked in the post) to be held for a courier that was supposed to come get them. They didn't show up on time, so the fleet held onto the gumballs for a while and investigated the crap out of them via SCIENCE!!! and even some chewing on them like chewing gum (ew).
They eventually finally ran into the HS Maldua, docked there, and some little robot friends helped collect all the gumballs!
Later, they arrived at the toxic moon, and discovered that their terraforming device was the cause of the problem for the toxicity. Upon further investigation, the gunk inside the device was pretty much exactly like the gumballs! Some flooters had sneakily kept some gumballs, and it was determined that a single gumball could help fix their problem - scraping the contaminated gunk out of the terraformer, tossing in a new gumball, and hoping for the best was all they could really do in the end. The council that oversees the toxic moon gave the OK, so the fleet helped in that way before saying goodbye.
Hope that helps!! Let me know if I broke links or if something doesn't make sense. o7
no subject
Re: QUESTIONS?
Completely random question here, but would this system be one where one of the Fleeters could find rudimentary building materials? ie wood, nails, rope, that sort of thing.
Ulaz has kind of committed himself to making something.
no subject
Things of that nature can be found in most systems, they're pretty common items. You're more than welcome to have Ulaz obtain them at a reasonable rate!
Special note, but only for flavor, if you so choose: in this current system, wood is a little more expensive than one would consider reasonable, since the planet is an atmosphere-less dust ball and all of their trees are either imported, or farmed in the orbital cities.
Hope that helps! Let us know if you have other questions!
no subject
Thanks for the note! Yes, that may influence some of Ulaz's decision.
SS RED FISH CHECK-IN
Flug has more than enough expertise to open the thing if you so desire, I'm kind of leaning towards option 4 myself (open outside the system) purely because I'd love see what augment glitch we suffer from, but I'm open to discussion!
We could always open one in the system, have to get a replacement, and then not open the replacement until we reach the next system to combine two options for some extra madness.
Any thoughts?
STARSTRUCK
SS WONDERDUCK!!
ICly: Escha's new around these parts, definitely not familiar with just how shady Atroma is - she just knows she's not a fan. Still, she's lawful-good enough to want to just make the delivery, albeit reluctantly. HOWEVER!! She's also super easy to convince otherwise!
Which leads me to.... OOCly: I'm personally way more interested in attempts to open the cargo, either in the system, or waiting until drift, or both! I'm not personally interested in a pirate attack, but I can 100% roll with it if that's what the majority wants - could be fun!
What does everyone think? Let's discuss!
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And yeah, we can totes do a pirate attack if everyone else is in. It'd be fun to watch Fie's ridiculous security things go down, and it'd be a fun way to show Escha can hold her own!
SS FIRST BREATH
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SS Bishop Check-In
Also idk, who's down for the ship being boarded by the unluckiest damn pirates ever? Since I mean, they still don't have a pilot, that's gotta make for an appealing target.
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OOCly HELL YES I am totally down for them being boarded. Nothing says crew bonding like taking down pirates together, right?
I'm also up for any of the other options as well, though I lean more towards the ones that involve them picking up the cargo! And if they do, Sam would likely encourage people not to open it
ss caprine check in
baku would go with the safe option - which is just deliver it as asked and etc cuz she's a stickler for rles, but she can be convinced otherwise. OOCly I'm game for whatever would be more fun for everyone!
also I am also game for our ship being boarded/not being boarded so feel free to discuss that here too!! let's plot friendos
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Alternatively, smash it? Kidding.
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WHAT'S IN IT, IS IT GOOD, CAN THE SELL IT, AAHHHHHHHHHHH
SS Huntress
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And if that ends up being the case, it's better to be far away from anyone it might be getting sent to instead of, y'know, five minutes away.
(plus they can then decide what to do with the second once they know what's in the first)
SS Goldstone Check in!
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On the IC side, Glenn is conflicted and still super new to all this. He's going to be a little suspicious of not knowing what they're carrying, so that's a point in favor of opening, but he's obviously not certain that opening it would be safe and he wouldn't want to put anyone in danger. So, if the crew comes to a consensus I can absolutely work out for myself how he got there, too.
I will also say, I'd totally be down for baby's first glitches. So maybe I do have a slight preference for that. >>
no subject
OOCly I also want to play with the glitches.