Open Space and Hyperspace

Opoku System, Planet Gamorr, Orbit


The shudder of the Lambda returning to real-space brought Ga'ab out of his light trance. The multi-day trip from the Deep Core to the Outer Rim left him frustrated and forced him to turn to the force for answers. He had been meditating or attempting to meditate off and on for the last 12 hours with the goal of peering through the veils of the force to discern truth. Miralukas were famous for their natural ability as seers and Gabe was no exception according to Ga'ab's memory of him. However Ga'ab struggled to make the same connection to the force, he felt as if his attempts were being rebuffed. Perhaps the force recognized him as a cheap replacement and had judged him unworthy.

He rose to his feet, dressed, and left the cabin. The door to the cockpit opened with a quiet whoosh and Ga'ab was able to see Gamorr as a dull brown smudge in the forward viewport. His optical implants automatically refocused and used its maximum zoom to show Ga'ab a much clearer view of the planet. However this completely threw off his depth perception and he stumbled forward with a curse. He still wasn't used to his optical implants and he resolved to familiarize himself before another such blunder got him killed.

He dropped into the pilot's chair and guided the ship towards the planet. Ga'ab and Riel were of the same mind when it came to where they would land. Jugsmuk Station. Decades and decades ago a young Gabriel Solomon had ventured to this seedy port to develop the underworld contacts that would form Black Sun. It was also the only place on the planet considered safe for off-worlders.

As the Lambda Class Shuttle dropped through the upper atmosphere the comm-station began beeping. Stretching across the co-pilot's station Ga'ab managed to flick the comms on.
"Lambda Class Shuttle, E-Z Target, this is Jugsmuk Station. Do you read?" The raspy voice belonging to a Weequay asked over the comm.


E-Z Loot? Ga'ab hadn't even bothered to check his ship's transponder codes, he couldn't believe that was the ship's name. Was someone doing a bit? Was this supposed to be a joke?
"Uh.. Yeah, we read you." Ga'ab answered back. "Requesting a berth. Transmit coordinates."

"You're coming down in that?" Asked the Weequay muffling a laugh. "We uh, don't get many Lambdas around these parts. The boys down here'll love you. Take docking ring 11."


Ga'ab's Lambda descended to the surface where he expected to be greeted by some of Jugsmuk Station's seddier characters. A Lamda shuttle was a rich prize and with a name like E-Z Loot his ship just screamed to be stolen.

Ga'ab slid into a darkened booth in one of Jugmsuk station's larger cantinas. The stink of Gamorrean was only offset by the bitter smoke of various smokes and inhalants and Ga'ab was beginning to get a headache. The most important task at hand was acquiring currency and to do that he would have to get creative. He sunk into the stained cushions of the booth and inhaled deeply. He could barely smell the stench as he focused on the force to extend his awareness. Without the help of his optical implants he saw the cantina's patrons through the force. Most were unimpressive specimens however he felt a flicker in the force and zeroed in on its source. The being wasn't particularly strong in the force, but he was touched by it and that was enough for Ga'ab. He reached out and touched the male humanoid's mind and beckoned him to the table.

From across the cantina a Ryn named Rygal stood up straight as if an electric current had coursed through his spine. He felt a sudden urge to remove himself from his conversation and scan the bar. Prehensile tale twitching with interest, the alien made his way through the crowds until he came to the darker corner of the cantina and saw a mark. Rygal had a talent for sniffing out opportunity and this human or near-human slouched in his booth looked much cleaner than anyone else there. It was good that his mark had found a dark corner, if anyone else had paid enough attention to see that the visored man was a new arrival, he probably would've been stripped down to his undergarments and left in an alley.

Rygal adopted a pleasant, if not predatory smile, as he approached Ga'ab. "Greetings gentle-being, is this seat taken?"

Ga'ab rose his head as if the alien had taken him by surprise and then he frowned as if irritated. "You don't see anyone sitting there do you?"

"Apologies." Rygal replied as he slid into the seat nonplussed. "I am Rygal. Is this your first time at Jugsmuk Station? Perhaps you need a guide? A friend?"

Ga'ab snickered, "Rygal, I'm going to stop you right there. I suspect you're about to buy me a friendly drink, ply me for information and then inevitably attempt to swindle me out of my ship and my credits."

The Ryn's surprise could be felt through the force before he recovered his composure and began to rise. "My apolo..." Before he could extricate himself from the conversation and seat an invisible force held him in his seat. He bucked impotently and grit his teeth and was about to protest before Ga'ab rose a hand.

"My name is Ga'ab and as it happens I do need a guide, among other things."

"Rygal is happy to assist." Assured the alien, though his force aura burned with anger.

"Not yet. But you will be when we reach an understanding. I suspect that you are not living up to your potential on this world."

Rygal grunted commit-ally. The truth was that he had been stranded on Gamorr for over a year with no greater successes than stealing, swindling, and cheating enough to survive. "I'm listening." Not that he had much of a choice, being held by an invisible force and all.

"How good are you at games of chance?" Ga'ab asked with a sly smile.

"It is said amongst my people that we created the game of Sabaac eons ago."

"Rygal, we may be friends yet." Ga'ab said as he released his force grip on Rygal. "Now, let's talk about how we will clear out Jugsmuk's gambling dens."

Ga'ab, each of his arms bound in the vice like grip of a Gamorrean, was dragged through the bowels of a Gamorrean stronghold. Bowels was an apt description because the low ceilings and flickering lights did nothing to quell the stench that Ga'ab was now convinced was intrinsic to Gamorrean biology. His retainers stopped by a cell door and paused only long enough to open it before they roughly tossed Ga'ab into the dank, confined quarters.
He landed with a thud and was about to spring to his feet when he heard the cell door slide closed.

"Oh, look who it is. The guilty party." Said a sardonic voice within the cell.

At this, Ga'ab did rise to his feet, his brow furrowing with anger. He approached the Ryn with unrestrained anger. "I ought to throttle you." Ga'ab said darkly.

The Ryn had the common sense enough to know to be wary. "Settle down partner." He said, putting emphasis on the word partner. "We're in the together right?"

"Yes. in a cell. Together. Everything according to plan."

"It's not all bad. Matron Kufbrug isn't like the other Gamorreans, she's almost civilized, she might make us slaves instead of killing us." Rygal said hopefully.

Ga'ab mulled over the name for a moment before replying. "Kufbrug... She's the one who stole my ship."

"Oh yeah, she's got a pretty good thing worked out with Jugsmuk landing control. Like I said, she's different. Smarter. She took over Jugsmuk Station about 10 years ago and since then she's probably become the most powerful Gamorrean leader on this side of the planet. She's got many sentients under her thrall or payroll, Jugsmuk landing control identifies new arrivals to Gamorr space and directs them to a landing bay where the pilot'll be jumped by her cronies they'll steal the ship."

Ga'ab nodded slowly. "So she has ambitions?"

"Of course, Gamorrean society is organized around tribes so its just a mess of shared and changing loyalties, perpetual warfare, marriage alliances and constantly shifting territorial possessions. Matron Kufbrug has been more succesful than most at incorporating off-world tech and personnel to strengthen her clan. She's got a pretty tight grip here and in the surrounding areas, seeing as this is the port most frequented by offworlders, she's enjoyed advantages over her more rural competitors."

Ga'ab contemplated what Rygal had told him and began weighing his options in his mind. Riel offered that the original Gabriel had found allies on Gamorr and perhaps this was a similar opportunity. Riel argued that if this Matron had ambitions then they would have something to bargain for their freedom.

"Uh, you ok there?" Asked Rygal after several long minutes of silence from Ga'ab.

"Shh. I need to concentrate and connect with the force." The Miraluka sat on the dirty ground, cross legged, his hands rested atop his knees. He breathed slowly and reached out with the force while his Ryn partner grumbled sullenly.
He let himself by carried by the currents in the force. His perception left the cell and grew to encompass the fortress and then to encompass all of Jugsmuk station, and finally the entire planet. As he surrendered himself to the force's ebb and flow he began to perceive repetitions and patterns. Following them, his focus returned to the Gamorrean fortress where many lines of the force were interconnected. He reached the source and saw through the force a burly Gamorrean female that he could only assume was Matrong Kufbrug. The force had guided him to her and Ga'ab knew that she was now a shatterpoint, a place in the force that if manipulated, would have massive ramifications for the entire planet.

"Tell me everything you know about the Matron and Gamorrean society." Ga'ab said to Rygal as he returned to himself. "I have a plan."

Gamorr, Jugsmuk Station, Kufbrug's Fortress


The victory feast was impressive. Massive slabs of rich meats sat spinning on spits over open fires and massive trays of many different species of mushroom were passed around generously. This was a side of Gamorreans that was missed in most galactic accountings of the species, Ga'ab had found them to be more complex and intelligent than he had given them credit for and they would prove to be valuable allies, of that, he had no doubt. Steered by the force into this alliance with Matron Kufbrug, Ga'ab was eagerly anticipating his rewards, monetary and otherwise.
Ga'ab and Rygal were seated at places of honor to the right of Matron Kufbrug and both were enjoying helping themselves to the Matron's finest alcohol, pilfered from hapless spacers in Jugmsuk Station.

Finally the Matron rose and raised his hands to silence her boisterous clan. "We honor our warriors and celebrate their strength and their victories." Began Matron Kufbrug in Gamorrean snorts. "At first we did not trust the offworlder who defeated Margdro, but under Margdro's watchful eyes the offworlder was tested in our customs, led war parties, and wielded his Arg'Garok against our enemies. With his powers we have silenced our rivals and now we are the envy of every clan. We recognize the offworlder Ga'ab and Rygal as members of our clan and present them with their M'uhk'gfa, constructed from their many fallen enemies. From now until death, they will always be among our warriors."

Ga'ab and Rygal raised their glasses in salute as Matron Kufbrug continued her speech t the cheering of the Gamorreans in attendance. No longer the subject of the speech, Rygal turned to Ga'ab. "My friend, this has been a most curious and dangerous adventure. But now that we are free from our debt to the matron, I intend to depart this world. I had been stuck here before our paths crossed. The wealth I have accumulated will surely make up for my absence to my clan-family but I must see to it that they receive it."

Ga'ab's friendly smile disapeared with confusion. "What are you talking about Rygal?" He asked, embarrassed that he had not done more to learn more about his friend.

"My species is a nomadic one. We venture forth from our families to bring back wealth and supplies and witht he bounty I have received here I am duty bound to return to them and share."

"Of course Rygal, I understand." Replied Ga'ab. "Rygal, I am ashamed that I have not asked about your family."

The Ryn chuckled, "I know you do not know the Ryn, but we are a nomadic species. We left our planet so long ago no one remembers its name. As we pass from world to world we developed a sordid reputation as smugglers, criminals, swindlers and much worse. Most of my family now finds itself indentured servants of the Tenloss Syndicate at their Bahalian Shipyards, with this wealth I may buy their freedom."

"How did they get swindled into working for Tenloss?" Asked Ga'ab.

"They are a sophisticated criminal entity. They are more insiduous than most since they operate under the facade of legitimate businesses. One such was a subcontractor for Bahalian shipyards. My clan-family has grown skilled at starship maintenance owing to our nomadic lifestyle, their skills were covetted and when they arrived at the shipyards for work, their identification documents were seized and they have been unable to leave." Rygal recounted a short history of his people.


"Rygal, if your family is half as skilled as you, I think we could do something about that injustice." Said Ga'ab as a slow smile crept across his face.

Rygal's mustache twitched with surprise. "I know that look, what are you scheming?"

"When we get our loot, I think you and I are going to pay the Astal sector a visit, scope out those shipyards."

"I can't wait to see what you're planning." Rygal hadn't dared to hope that Ga'ab would care about his people. Most sentients didn't. But with Ga'ab and his Gamorrean allies maybe there was a way to free his people without spending all the credits he had worked so hard to accumulate.

Astal Sector, Bahalian Shipyards

The Lambda Class Shuttle "Axe of Urkruk", named after the final victory that had brought the Gamorreans of Jugsmuk station into his camp. The Miraluka sat behind the pilot controls, deftly maneuvering the tri-winged craft towards the modest-sized shipyard. To his left in the co-pilot seat Rygal almost fidgeted with a mix of anger, anticipation and longing. Longing to be back with his clan-family. "Hey buddy, settle down. You don't need to force to tell that you're spoiling for a fight." Against Riel's strong objections Ga'ab had allowed Rygal to accompany him on what was ostensibly a legitimate business trip. Ga'ab had convined Matron Kufbrug of the wisdom of having a complement of starfighters that could be scrambled in defense of her fortress and surrounding settlement. While her warriors would not pilot them she had consented to let Ga'ab deal with procurement of both fighters and offworld pilots.

"I still think it's a bad idea." Said Riel going over old ground yet again. "The Tenloss syndicate is formidable. They are also at their core criminals and I suspect that if they control a shipyard then they can also identify a Ryn and are probably smart enough to get suspicious."

"I know, I know." Rygal said. The Ryn tried to focus on the final approach to the public landing bays but his aura in the force gave him away.

"Let's go over the plan one more time." Said Ga'ab, choosing to ignore Riel's outburst. When they were in sync Riel didn't make its presence known, but when they disagreed the AI was incredibly annoying.

Exasperated Rygal let out a breath and said flatly. "I've been avoiding law enforcement since you were in diapers. I know what i'm doing."

Ga'ab raised his hands defensively, "alright, alright." before he toggled the landing cycle which brought the shuttle's wings to fold in an upright position while it's landing gear was extended. Without further conversation Ga'ab and Rygal brought the shuttle in for a landing in an unclaimed berth.
The two made their way to the entry ramp where 8 Gamorreans armed and armored milled about. They were to serve as an honor guard, but more importantly their mass would hide Ryn until he could break off and reconnoiter the shipyard.

"Alright, just like we planned." Said Ga'ab as he activated the boarding ramp. Ga'ab exited first dressed in his gold gilded M'uhk'gfa armor resplendent with a red shimmersilk cape clasped with jeweled pendants. Trudging down the ramp behind him in a disorderly grunting mob was his Gamorrean honor guard. Ga'ab felt shock and then confusion through the force as the other sentients nearby took notice of the new arrivals. "8 Gamorreans come out out a Lambda shuttle" almost sounded like the beginning of a Cantina foot-stomper.
A station official was bold enough to approach after a group of Tenloss Security Guards made themselves and their repeating-blasters conspicuously visible.

"Excuse me, do you have an appointment?" Asked the station official, a middle aged man of short height and an unfortunate baldspot. He held a datapad to his chest defensively and kept glancing at security.

"I was led to believe that for the right price, I didn't need to make an appointment." Said Ga'ab casually.

"Perhaps you mistook our shipyard for a mud hovel, Gamorreans ugh."

Ga'ab made a show of looking around "Wouldn't be very hard. I've seen Outlaw Techs Operations that make this 'legitimate' shipyard look like a swoop factory." He used his fingers to create air-quotes when he said 'legitimate'. "Now, before you give yourself an aneurysm, get me someone important I can talk too about a MAJOR purchase."

Fuming the small man stormed off to be replaced some time later by a well dressed human male of about 70 years and another squad of Tenloss Security Guards.
"I understand you are the unsavory man whose insulted my staff and polluted our life support system." He said indicating the Gamorreans with an imperious hand.

"I'm not here to talk to the help, I'm here to place a major order." Replied Ga'ab with a shrug. This man's force aura showed surety and craftiness. He wasn't a peon.

"That is extremely presumptuous..." He began but Ga'ab cut him off.

"You're going to tell me that you choose your clients very carefully and I'm going to tell you that my benefactor has chosen you after careful consideration and if given the opportunity to speak away from prying ears I can explain how recent events in the Opruku System may benefit your.. Parent company." He put special emphasis on parent company, indicating that he was talking about the Tenloss SYndicate's other business ventures.

"Very well." You will follow me. Your... confederates may wait on the shuttle."

"Surely you mean to say that they may spend credits at the cantina?" Ga'ab utilized another mind trick, ensuring Rygal could complete his end of the mission.

"Of course. Now follow me please." Said the Shipyard Representative as he turned and began walking into the station. Ga'ab bid his retinue farewell and the two parties split on their respective missions.

Bahalian Shipyards, Overseer's Office



"I am Sc'eran Tha, overseer of the shipyards on behalf of the Tenloss Syndicate." The man who had just introduced himself had led Ga'ab through a series of uninteresting rooms and corridors until they reached Sc'eran's office. As he ushered Ga'ab into the room and then took a seat behind a beautiful Wroshyr wood desk. Ga'ab allowed himself to marvel at the office's decor. It felt every bit the lair of a high ranking criminal. Ga'ab felt a pang of desire but he quickly brought his mind back to the task at hand. He slid smoothly into a conforming chair and made his own introductions, careful to reveal as little about himself as possible. "I am an emissary of the Matron Kufbrug of Clan Jugsmuk, preeminent Matron of Gamorr and defacto ruler of Jugsmuk Station."

Sc'eran leaned back in his chair and steepled his fingers. "You will forgive me if I say that I and my organization care very little about Gamorrean politics."

Nodding understandably Ga'ab continued, "Of course. Simply put, I am here to place an order for three squadrons of mint-condition Z-95 Headhunters for planetary defense."

"I didn't know Gamorreans could fly."

"They can't. Or they won't. I have been tasked with procuring the ships and competent pilots." Replied Ga'ab.

Sc'eran removed a small datapad and began entering in calculations. "Three squadrons, that's 36 ships, fresh off the factory floor... That brings us near enough to a million credits."

"Do you take Huttese Peggats?"

"Yes, we have a currency exchange. Do you have the sum available now?" Asked Sc'eran almost hungrily.

"If I said yes, would you begin production immediately?"

"Yes, I will send security with you to facilitate the transfer." The overseer was already thinking of the percentage he could embezzle from an all-cash payment before entering it into the shipyard's accounts. "If you would just sign here." He extended another, larger datapad and stylus to Ga'ab who with a lazy flourish scribbled something illegible.
Sc'eran was about to get up when Ga'ab stopped him.

"Sc'eran, my ship is not going anywhere. We've just concluded a substantial deal, you should bring us some libations and I can tell you about how terrifying a boarding party of Gamorreans with vibro-axes and energy shields can be." Ga'ab exerted a subtle force suggestion. He wanted to give Rygal as much time as he could. Sc'eran, affected by the force suggestions nodded, smiled, and used his commlink to summon a server and refreshments. Ga'ab would buy Rygal time by pitching the idea of using Gamorrean mercenaries as shock-troops for the Tenloss Syndicate to which Sc'eran seemed amenable.