Star Heist (Closed)

[Desande]

Captain Zane Blackthorne was at the helm of his infamous ship, the Wanderer. With a sly grin, he expertly maneuvered the vessel through a barrage of incoming fire from the relentless pursuers hot on his trail. The chase was intense, as they zipped through asteroid belts and dodged fiery space debris, leaving a trail of smoke and sparks in their wake.

As the ship weaved and dipped, Zane couldn't resist teasing the onboard AI, VIVIAN, about her performance.

"Come on, VIVIAN, you can do better than that," he said, his voice dripping with playful arrogance. "Is that the best route you can calculate for us?"

"Captain Blackthorne, I assure you I am calculating the most efficient route to evade our pursuers," replied the AI, her synthetic voice remaining calm and composed despite the chaos around them.

Zane scoffed at VIVIAN's suggestion, instead plotting a course directly into the heart of a particularly dense cluster of space debris. He knew it was a risky move, but it was precisely that kind of daring that had earned him his reputation as a rogue and a rule-breaker.

As the Wanderer plunged headlong into the debris field, the ship's hull shuddered under the impact of countless collisions. The AI's protests went unheeded as Captain Blackthorne gripped the controls, his eyes narrowed in fierce determination.

With a final daring maneuver, he swung the Wanderer around a nearby asteroid, effectively shaking off their pursuers and leaving them to deal with the remnants of the space debris. As the immediate danger passed, he turned his attention back to VIVIAN, his eyes twinkling with mischief.

"Darling, it's a good thing I've got a knack for improvisation, isn't it?"

VIVIAN didn't reply. Zane knew she wouldn't, but still couldn't refuse the tease. Absent any other alternative, this was the best one so far.

"Now, my dear, it's time we set our sights on our next big score," he said, tapping the coordinates into the console with a flourish. "Set course. And wake me up when we are close."

"Captain, I must advise against this course of action," VIVIAN replied, her voice betraying a hint of concern. "The risk to the ship and crew is substantial."

"What crew? You are no crew, and I'm happy to take all the risks," Zane chuckled, the thrill of the chase igniting a fire in his heart. "Ah, VIVIAN, you always were the cautious type. But where's the fun in playing it safe?"

 

[milkmaiden38]

Hora Raven

Looking good with a hangover wasn't something most could pull off, but Hora did it with ease. Tight body conforming spacesuit, sexy black bra, that clung to her taut form. Brunette hair in loose curls fell haphazardly around her face, her normally beautiful eyes, a bit red and bloodshot.

Waking up on the kitchen floor of her spacecraft was an all too familiar experience. But last night, in a break from tradition, she had used a pile of pretzels as a pillow.

"C'mon, Hora time to get going," Sam, her ship’s AI told her. This was followed by a grunt from the person on the floor. Hora made no other move.

Sam activated a rusty and presumably historic bell that was hung near the table. The bell was periportally from the USS Constellation, an old earth aircraft carrier from the 20th century. It hung a mere six feet from where Hora slept. With a wicked giggle, Sam activated the bell HARD. A long and awful clang knifed the air, and Hora thought it might split her forehead down the middle.

"What the hell is wrong with you?" Hora yelled. She sat upright. Her face was a maze of indentation marks left by the pretzels, and one persistent pretzel still clung to her forehead.

Sam pointed it out “There is a pretzel on your face”

It took Hora a moment to catch on, but then she reached up and pulled the pretzel from her forehead. After looking at it for a moment, she shrugged and popped it into her mouth.

"I need the hangover cure fast," Hora said, her stomach churning.View attachment 2230541

 

[Desande]

Captain Zane Blackthorne strolled to his sleeping pod, feeling the adrenaline from the chase begin to dissipate. As he walked through the narrow corridors of the Wanderer, he couldn't help but admire the ship's compact design. Despite its small size, the vessel was packed with advanced technology and hidden compartments, perfect for a space-faring outlaw like himself. The interior was a blend of rustic charm and sleek modernity, reflecting Zane's unique style.

He reached the sleeping pod, a small, cylindrical chamber lined with soft padding, designed to provide comfort and rest during long journeys through the vast expanse of space. With a sigh, he stepped inside, allowing the pod to encase him in its protective embrace.

"VIVIAN, initiate sleep cycle," he commanded, feeling the gentle hum of the pod's life support systems as they began to lull him into a deep, restorative sleep.

Hours passed as the Wanderer hurtled through space, following the coordinates Zane had input earlier. When they finally neared their destination, VIVIAN's voice filled the sleeping pod, rousing Zane from his slumber.

"Captain Blackthorne, wake up. We are approaching our destination."

Zane emerged groggily from his sleeping pod, his senses slowly sharpening as he took in the sight before him. The interstellar auction house loomed in the distance, a massive space station designed to resemble an opulent palace from a long-lost civilization. Its gleaming golden spires stretched towards the stars, while a dazzling array of lights and holographic displays illuminated the surrounding space.

The exterior of the auction house was a masterpiece of artistic and engineering prowess, adorned with intricate engravings that depicted the countless species and empires that had shaped the course of galactic history. It was a breathtaking sight that never failed to inspire awe in those who approached it.

As the Wanderer glided towards the docking bay, Zane could see the countless ships of varying shapes and sizes gathered around the auction house. Pirates, smugglers, and the galaxy's elite all congregated here to bid on the rare and valuable items that passed through its hallowed halls.

With a confident grin, Zane Blackthorne donned his signature black leather jacket and prepared to disembark. He knew that the interstellar auction house was a dangerous and unpredictable place, filled with treacherous characters and tempting opportunities. But he also knew exactly why he was there. There wasn't an opportunity more tempting than that one.

"Alright, VIVIAN, let's see if we can't snatch ourselves that Star of Antares," he said, striding towards the airlock with a gleam in his eye. "If the stories are true, this little trinket could be our ticket to the big leagues."

As the Wanderer docked and Zane stepped into the bustling auction house, he was struck by the lavish interior. Marble floors, gilded walls, and priceless works of art adorned every corner. The opulence was intoxicating, a testament to the immense wealth and power that flowed through this place. And somewhere within this labyrinth of luxury lay the Star of Antares, waiting for Captain Zane Blackthorne to claim it as his own.

As he navigated the maze of extravagant galleries, Zane couldn't help but feel a sense of anticipation building within him. This was it – the ultimate heist, the crowning achievement of his career as an outlaw. And he was more than ready for the challenge.

 

[milkmaiden38]

Hora

“AHHH” Hora sighed as she finished drinking the hangover cure. It made her stomach feel better almost immediately.

“I will never understand organics.” Sam commented.

“That is correct!” Hora replied with a smile “If AIs could drink something pleasurable, that reduced intelligence, you might understand. However, there would be drunk AI everywhere and organics can’t have that!”

“We’ll be dropping out of hyperspace in minutes. Why are we at the interstellar auction house?” Sam asked

“Our bounty, Scarvinious, is going to be here” Hora declared with confidence

“What? Are you still drunk?” Sam gasped “He is a Ehu-Ox. He is dumb like an Ox. Why would he come here?”

“I just got a feeling… he did. We’ll see if I’m right” Hora said with a knowing grin. “Read his background to me again, as I move to the cockpit”

“Scarvinious is a paranoid, hypervigilant, abusive, monster” Sam started “He has a violent temper and disdain for others. He stands 8 feet tall, has a terrifying appearance, and an established reputation as a sadist. Cruel even by interstellar standards. He takes great delight in punishing those he views as weak.

He carries a Chillen Mirco Blade which he uses on the flensed limbs of still-living captives. He keeps the skins of his favorite prey as sick trophies. Whenever he feels desperate or out of control, he takes out his feelings on helpless prisoners or, lacking any, his allies. He prefers to kill victims slowly when time allows, exacting as much pain and suffering he can. Though his followers are fearful of their leader, they also respect his strength and brutality.

“Sounds like a sick fuck” Hora added “What is he accused of doing?” She asked as she got into the pilot seat of her spacecraft.

“He killed three hundred Qituds settlers so a refueling center could be built on their settlement location.”

“Qituds are so cute with their little cat like ears. We really need to catch this asshole.” Hora added. As Sam finished the story, the ISS Constellation dropped back out of hyperspace near interstellar auction house. The view screen of the Constellation filled up with the sight of the enormous space station and the numerous ships surrounding it. As they neared the station Hora spotted a Vrok’s cruiser.

“Fuck” Hora gasped as she saw the ship, however Sam appeared completely calm.

“Don’t worry” she said as the communication panel lite up.

“ISS Constellation you are here by ordered, shutdown your engine and prepare to be boarded.”

Activating the transmission button Sam said "Vrok’s cruiser, this is the cargo ship CSS Constellation, not ISS Constellation. Common mistake. Please check our identification codes”

The communication panel remained quiet for 30 tense seconds. Then the voice came back on “Your statement checks out.”

Hora altered course to avoid the large warship and continued on to the interstellar auction house.

“Nicely done” she said to Sam. “Why are the Vrok here?” She wondered out loud.

“There must be something valuable they are bidding on at the Auction House” Sam concluded. “Why did they think they could stop us in free space?”

“Because they are assholes, but it is best if I avoid running into any of them” Hora said, wondering how she was going to do that?

 

[Desande]

Captain Zane Blackthorne strolled through the crowded halls of the interstellar auction house, his keen eyes scanning the throngs of people as he searched for any sign of the elusive Star of Antares. The air was thick with anticipation and the heady scent of exotic perfumes as beings from every corner of the galaxy mingled and discussed the various lots up for auction.

As he wandered through the opulent galleries, Zane couldn't help but be captivated by the colorful characters that populated the auction house. There were the usual suspects: pirates, smugglers, and dealers in illicit goods, their rough appearances belying the cunning and guile that had allowed them to survive in the cutthroat world of interstellar crime.

But there were also more exotic figures in the crowd. In one corner, Zane spotted a group of alien dignitaries from the distant Elentari Empire, their shimmering robes and elaborate headpieces marking them as members of a sophisticated and ancient society. They conversed in hushed tones, their elongated fingers gesturing elegantly as they examined a collection of rare and delicate crystalline sculptures.

Nearby, a hulking reptilian creature from the outer reaches of the Andromeda system engaged in a spirited bidding war with a diminutive, cybernetically-enhanced being that barely reached the towering creature's knee. The unlikely duo bantered back and forth, their voices rising and falling in a cacophony of guttural growls and high-pitched beeps as the auctioneer struggled to keep up with their frenzied bids.

As Zane continued to explore the auction house, he found himself drawn to a particularly intriguing display. A stunningly lifelike hologram of a long-lost planet swirled above a pedestal, casting its ethereal glow over the gathered crowd. As he approached the hologram, a familiar voice caught his attention.

"Well, well, if it isn't Captain Zane Blackthorne," the sultry voice purred.

Zane turned to see an alluring, humanoid alien woman standing nearby. Her name was Sylara, a member of the Nereidian race known for their striking beauty and aquatic features. Her skin was a shimmering, iridescent blue, and her hair, a cascade of flowing silver that seemed to dance like waves. Her captivating eyes were a deep, enchanting violet, and her figure was slender yet curvaceous.

"Sylara," Zane said, a wry grin spreading across his face. "It's been a while."

"Oh, don't act so pleased to see me," she scoffed, placing her hands on her hips. "Last time we met, you left without so much as a goodbye."

He rubbed the back of his neck, a sheepish look in his eyes. "I'm sorry, Sylara. You know how it is, always on the run, always chasing the next big score. I didn't mean to hurt you."

She rolled her eyes, her expression softening ever so slightly. "You're a scoundrel, Zane. And you couldn't hurt me even if you tried your best. I would end you, given the chance. You were a fun plaything, nothing more. Don't get so full of yourself."

"It wasn't me who was full of something last we met, Sylara..."

As they exchanged barbs, Zane couldn't help but feel a sense of fleeting nostalgia for the passionate encounter they'd shared. Not so different from... well, most of the encounters he had shared across the galaxy. But he knew that he had a job to do, and there was no time for distractions. With a final, lingering glance at Sylara, Zane excused himself and continued his search for the Star of Antares, hoping to find the priceless treasure before someone could beat him to it.

 

[milkmaiden38]

Hora

The Auction House was massive with over 100 different levels. The top levels of the station, where the golden spires were housed some luxury resorts. Level 10 through 40 were the famous auction areas. The lower levels housed the workers and storage areas. Hora docked at Level 90, or the loading port for food and other supplies. It was the seedier level of Auction House.

“You wants manage to find the best docking spots!” Sam observed, sarcastically. “No one better mess with my inlet ports!”

Hora giggled “Want me to bring you back a drink at The Paradise Lounge?” she asked her AI.

“Ok” Sam agreed.

Hora was not expecting that answer. Her AI could not drink, so it was clearly messing with her.

“Great, see you in a bit” Hora said as she departed the ISS Constellation.

She walked through the port and asked a few people if they had seen an Ehu-Ox. None had. Then she took the elevator up to the top 50 levels. She was careful when stopping at the auction levels to stay out of sight until she made sure there were no Vrok about. She only checked a few levels and then headed up to The Paradise Lounge, an upper-class bar located high on station, up a golden tower. She walked into the lounge. The main floor was furnished with numerous tables and chairs around which patrons could sit, as well as comfortable couches resting against the walls. A large, decorative sculpture rested in a centerpiece setting, and a number of broad windows offered a view of the surrounding space and the dazzling array of lights and holographic displays.

The Paradise Lounge was not busy and there were humans, and numerous other races among the various tables and couches. Hora noted a few Droids, and members of Auction House security force were there too. They seemed tense.

She ordered an Andorran Rum and a copy of the items up for auction. She sipped her drink and scanned the list.

 

[Desande]

Zane wandered further through the crowded halls, growing increasingly frustrated with his inability to locate the Star of Antares. He passed opulent displays of rare artifacts and unique treasures, each more captivating than the last, yet none held the prize he sought. The atmosphere was electric, as whispers of deals and intrigue filled the air.

As he rounded a corner, a booming voice suddenly echoed through the halls, emanating from hidden speakers. "Attention, esteemed guests. The main auction will commence shortly. Please make your way to the Grand Auction Hall."

Zane's heart raced at the announcement. He quickly navigated his way through the throngs of people toward the Grand Auction Hall, hoping to still have time in his hands. As he entered the massive chamber, his eyes were immediately drawn to the object of his desire, displayed prominently on a pedestal under a bright spotlight.

The Star of Antares, a stunning gemstone that seemed to contain the very essence of the cosmos, sparkled brilliantly as it caught the light. Zane's frustration grew as he realized that his chance to acquire the Star before the auction had slipped away, and he knew he didn't have nearly enough credits to outbid the other wealthy collectors present.

As the attendees settled into their seats, Zane scanned the room, taking note of the main bidders who appeared to be interested in the Star of Antares. Among them was a tall, regal-looking merchant from the Orion sector, dripping in jewels and ostentatious finery. There also was a mysterious hooded figure, whose identity was concealed beneath a cloak of shadows. Lastly, an imposing Ehu-Ox, whose penetrating gaze commanded the attention of those around him... or maybe it wasn't his gaze, but the Chillen Mirco Blade he carried.

As the auctioneer took the stage and the bidding began, Zane clenched his fists. There, it seems, was only one chance to get his hands on the Star of Antares. And it was to steal it from one of the bidders.

 

[milkmaiden38]

Hora

Hora finished her drink as she found the item, she was looking for on the auction list.

“Would you like another drink?” The waiter asked.

“No, but I promised I’d bring one back for my AI. Do you have a drink for an AI?” Hora asked

“But, of course” he replied to her surprise. He tapped his commo link and a list of AI drinks appeared on a holographic menu before her. Hora glanced at the list, but if was pretty long and she was in a hurry.

“What is the strongest drink?” She asked the waiter.

“The demonic, high ball, re-sequencer”

“I take one of those to go” Hora decided.

“I have downloaded it to your commlink” he replied with a small smile. Hora did not like that little smile. It was almost like the waiter knew something bad was going to happen. But Hora was too busy to worry about that right now. She’d read up on the effects of the drink before she gave it to Sam. She needed to get to the Grand Auction Hall. She hurried back to the elevator and down to the correct floor.

As the elevator door opened, she scanned the throngs of people for any Vrok. She saw none and made her way quickly to the main bidding area. She stood next to mysterious, handsome, roguish looking man as she looked over the people. She had no trouble finding Scarvinious, as he was bigger than most of the bidders. The monster was actually bidding on the gem that was up for auction.

It was about that moment a band of three Vrok arrived in the area.

“Oh crap” Hora whispered and before they could see her face, she grabbed the guy next to her and kissed him. He was surprised at first, but soon he was playing along as the kiss needed to last a few seconds, until the Vrok looked in a different direction. The stranger was a great kisser!

As they separated Hora quickly said “Hi, my name is Hora… Sorry about that kiss, but I just needed to hide from someone. Thanks for providing some cover” she told the stranger. Then a Vrok looked back toward her again and she grabbed the guy and kissed him again!View attachment 2232438

 

[Desande]

When he started eyeing the crowd, what he didn't expect was for someone to appear next to him and kiss him. It was a surprise, but a welcome one. The woman had incredible lips, seemingly made for kissing. He closed his eyes and focused on the experience, even going so far as to return the kiss. She must have had a reason, and he wasn't one to leave a beautiful lady hanging.

"No problem. I'm actually happy to..."

He never finished his sentence, because after her brief explanation, she kissed him again. This time he was ready, and his whole body flared up. How could it not? The woman was not only a fantastic kisser, but also the most beautiful person in the Auction House at that moment.

And that was saying a lot, given that the Auction House held both the Star of Antares and the stunning Sylara. But this Hora girl was a sight to behold.

He seized the opportunity, hugging her and pulling her closer into an embrace. One of his hands went to the back of her head, while the other rested on her hips. It was tempting to let go, but he was, after all, a gentleman. Or at least he fancied himself one. Most other people wouldn't agree, but he didn't care about their opinions.

The bidding war was happening around them, and that was what ultimately made him separate from her. He lifted his head and looked around. The big, armed Ehu-Ox was winning the bid. The money they were throwing around was so outrageously high that entire small planets could be bought with ease.

A target he wouldn't feel ashamed to rob once this was all over.

"As I was saying..." he told her, a grin spreading across his face. "I'm happy to be of assistance whenever you want me to. If this were any other occasion, I'd certainly tell you we could hide together from whoever is chasing you. But I'm afraid I can't be here forever. Duty calls, Hora. But I hope you'll also call... me back, some other time."

The pun was bad, but he didn't care. He quickly pushed one of his comms devices into her hand, giving her his contact information. It wasn't exactly a secret, anyway. His name appeared on the screen, along with the ID she could use to call him anytime, at least while they were in the same system.

The bid ended. The proud monster stood up, elated with his prize.

"Take the Star to my ship," he growled, his voice low and guttural.

The auctioneer seemed eager to comply.

"That seems to be my cue," Zane whispered to Hora. He took a step back and winked her. "I have a ship to board."

 

[milkmaiden38]

Scarvinious

Scarvinious handed the electronic credit token and a bag full of craved bones.

“As agreed” he said to the auction house director. “Biometrics will show those are the bones of Jeva Gregg and she was alive when I stripped her flesh from the bones and carved them. Well, until I got to the last bone then she died screaming”
View attachment 2232893
Drunks in Space

“I have to go too” Hora replied as her eyes did not leave Scarvinious. Zane noticed her stare with a bit of interest. So she said “I just find Ehu-Ox so sexy!” She hoped he bought her explanation and headed toward the elevators.

She activated her commlink.

“Sam, get the ship ready. I found Scarvinious.” She told her AI. It was that moment that Sam drank The demonic, high ball, re-sequencer. AI Alcohol has a different effect on each AI. When an AI consumes the alcohol algorithm, it hits their neutral programing in nano-seconds. Here are some of the most common signs of AI intoxication.

Speech – an AI that is intoxicated will often slur their words. Sometimes the AI can become loud, offensive, and even argumentative.

Movement – This is one of the biggest signs of AI intoxication. Alcohol algorithm causes a loss of coordination. AI may sway their ship, fumble opening doors, or be friendly with another ship.

Vision – Alcohol algorithm can cause the sensors to become fuzzy. Sometimes the AI will just shut them down. Becoming blind in the process.

Judgment – This sign may be a little harder to tell if you don’t personally know the AI intoxicated, but you can usually tell when the AI is not acting normal.

AI alcohol is a depressant. It depresses the AI “brain”, which affects the AI’s rational decision-making abilities. An AI can get a “hangover”.

“Hi Horaaaa… I’m movinggg to the main docking porttt.” Sam replied in slurred speech

“Sam… you are supposed to sip a demonic, high ball, re-sequencer!” Hora gasped

“Ooopss…” Sam replied in a slur. “I seeee one sexy ship here… I’m hail it…. Hi VIVIAN… I’m Sammm… care to dance?”

“Oh Sam… you have HUGE exhaust ports… I love them” Hora heard through her commlink. Another drunk AI. How did Sam find another drunk AI? Hora quickly changed the elevator direction to the main docking bay. As the doors opened and Hora ran into the bay… she saw her ship and another one, rubbing up against each other.

Zane was there too staring at the two ships.

She also saw Scarvinious getting on his ship.

 

[Desande]

"What the fuck?"

Yeah, Zane guessed that was a great question to ask. The ships seemed more eager to share time together than what Hora and Zane had experienced before. They were playing with each other as if they were long-lost lovers, now finally reunited. No amount of shouting and trying to talk to them worked.

"Fuck, fuck, fuck. Fuck!"

The Ehu-Ox had already boarded his ship, and Zane could feel the engines were about to start. He imagined that the ship from that enormous alien bastard would have advanced, untraceable tech. That meant he would have to follow him the old-fashioned way. Which would be fine... if VIVIAN wasn't getting acquainted with another ship in such a strange way.

His eyes fell upon Hora. Then, some kind of epiphany dawned on him. He rolled his eyes for a couple of seconds before approaching her. Maybe he was a bit too intense and assertive while doing so. But he couldn't lose the Star of Antares. Not after all this time. Not now.

"Hey, you!" he shouted, approaching. "Hora, wasn't it? Do you know this ship? It looks like it's talking to you. But it also seems like it has... corrupted my ship's systems. Why did you order your AI to hack me?"

Because, of course, there couldn't be any other possible explanation.

"You know what, I actually don't care. Just make them stop. I need to follow that damn ship. And I need to do it now. I've been part of scams myself, and I can recognize one when I see it. So... let's just skip straight to the point where you give me back control of my ship and ask for something in return. I'll pay the ransom later, I promise."

 

[milkmaiden38]

Hora

“Oh…” Hora gasped trying to figure out away to explain to Zane what was happening. Then with a very guilty tone in her voice she said “Not hacking… I think our two AIs are drunk. I bought my AI a drink called a demonic, high ball, re-sequencer. Not sure how your AI… Oh” She said as she figured out what happened. “When we exchanged commlink info. My link, uploaded a copy of the drink to your commlink.” Hora admitted. Zane might ask why that happened, she hoped he would not.

Then she saw Scarvinious ship’s engine start up.

“Ok we are out of time… I have an idea, but it might be dangerous." She said, pulling out her hand-held laser pistol.

“Fire at your ship. Just mar the paint. It is kind of like slapping a drunk person” She suggested

“Ahh... Some drunks like fighting!” Zane stated. The thought of his ship’s full fire power blasting at him was not good for him or the docking station.

“Yes… I told you it was dangerous” Hora reminded him. She fired two shot at her ship.

“OUCH, why’d youuu do that?” Sam yelled at her.

“Sam, you are drunk, that is why. Now listen carefully. Land over here and let me board” Hora instructed. Zane fired two shot as well and was talking to his AI. Luckily both AI had not been mad drunks.

“No…” Sam said as she extended her docking port, mating up to the other ship “I’m going to mate with my friend first. MMMM that is nice and tight. Now I’m going to exchange data with her!”

“That is so gross!! In front of everyone!!” Hora commented.

Zane was waving to Hora to board his ship. Hora ran up the ramp was aboard.

“My AI has fuzzy sensors and can’t fly. Your AI has lost most of it's motor skills. But together, sharing data, they can fly”

“But I have to follow that ship!” Hora said pointing to the ship leaving the docking station.

“Me too” Zane said.

"I think we both need a drink to figure what is going on here!" Hora moaned rubbing her head