On board, Captain Ed Alvis
Biographical Information Also Known As: Captain Ed Alvis, Dr. Ed AlvisProfessions: Scientist, Musician, AdventurerAlma Mater: University of MarylandNotable Achievements: Ph.D. in Physics, Expertise in Structural Engineering Overview Ed Alvis is a renowned figure in both the scientific and musical communities, celebrated for his dual expertise as a physicist and a musician. His remarkable journey spans academic achievements, a profound musical... stood at the helm, his eyes scanning the endless horizon as they charted their course back from the Yukon Sector
Overview A Sector, commonly referred to as a Provincial Sector, is a designated area of space within the broader and diverse cosmic region known as the Canadian Expanse. These Sectors function similarly to provinces, contributing to the organization and governance of this vast territory. Structure and Division The Canadian Expanse is divided into thirteen Provincial Sectors, each with its own... to Vancouver Prime in the Vancouver System
System Overview The Vancouver System, located in the British Columbia Sector, is a dynamic and diverse star system comprising seven planets. The system's primary star, Vancouver Prime, is a G-type main-sequence star (Yellow Dwarf), providing a stable environment for its planets. Vancouver Prime (Vancouver III) is notable for its habitable conditions and the presence of its moon, The Capilano Forest... of the British Columbia SectorOverview A Sector, commonly referred to as a Provincial Sector, is a designated area of space within the broader and diverse cosmic region known as the Canadian Expanse. These Sectors function similarly to provinces, contributing to the organization and governance of this vast territory. Structure and Division The Canadian Expanse is divided into thirteen Provincial Sectors, each with its own....
Little did they know, a squadron of pirate fighters lurked in the shadows, their eyes fixed on the unsuspecting cargo ship. With a sudden burst of energy, the pirates swooped in, their weapons primed and ready.
“Captain Alvis, we’ve got incoming!” Spacedawg PaulyBirth Name: PaulyCurrent Alias: Spacedawg PaulySpecies: Human-Canine HybridDate of Birth: February 22, 1973Place of Birth: Washington, D.C., United States, Earth, Sol SystemOccupations: Former Chef, Brewer, Distiller, Garden Worker, Apprentice Cobbler; Current First Mate on the Mandoleer's Folly, Lieutenant in the Royal Canadian Space Cavalry (RCSC) Overview Spacedawg Pauly is a unique entity whose life story spans both Earth and the... shouted, his claws gripping the controls with fierce determination.
Agent Celine Ebner
Biographical Information Name: Celine EbnerDate of Birth: April 20, 2173Place of Birth: Vancouver Prime, Canadian ExpanseOccupations: Cybernetically Enhanced Operative of the Royal Canadian Space Cavalry (RCSC)Parents: Captain Eugene Ebner, Former Deputy Commandant Mary Ebner Overview Celine Ebner is a distinguished officer in the Royal Canadian Space Cavalry (RCSC), known for her profound resilience and cybernetic enhancements. Born into a family... and Maelstrom
Origin and Early Life Maelstrom, a Gichi-manidoo from the Rogue Moon of Giizis Babaa-ayaa in the Ontario Sector, is distinguished by her blue-furred, wild cat-like features. A member of the humanoid species with a deep connection to nature, she embodies the physical and spiritual traits of her heritage. Maelstrom’s life took a significant turn when she relocated to the bustling... sprang into action, manning the plasma cannons turrets with precision as the ship rocked under the barrage of enemy fire. With Spacedawg’s expert piloting skills, they dodged and weaved through the onslaught, turning the tables on their would-be attackers.
After a fierce battle, the pirates were vanquished, their ships nothing more than smoldering wreckage drifting in space. The Mandoleer’s Folly emerged victorious, its crew weary but triumphant.
As they crossed into the British Columbia SectorOverview A Sector, commonly referred to as a Provincial Sector, is a designated area of space within the broader and diverse cosmic region known as the Canadian Expanse. These Sectors function similarly to provinces, contributing to the organization and governance of this vast territory. Structure and Division The Canadian Expanse is divided into thirteen Provincial Sectors, each with its own..., relief washed over them. But their journey was far from over. They pressed on towards Vancouver Prime, eager to complete their mission and deliver their cargo.
“Agent Ebner, radio the flight command station for landing clearance,” Captain Alvis commanded, his voice steady despite the adrenaline coursing through his veins.
With Agent Ebner’s skillful coordination, they secured permission to land on a private platform owned by Henry Weedmonger, a prominent figure in the cannabis trade.
As they disembarked, they were greeted by Henry’s assistants, Dorthy Mckenzie and Charline Fraser. With a nod of acknowledgment, they followed the assistants down a glassed-in arbour, the air thick with the scent of blooming cannabis.
At the end of the corridor, they entered an atrium where Henry tended to his latest creation—a strain that smelled and tasted like single malt scotch.
“Welcome, my friends,” Henry greeted them warmly, offering a smoke to Spacedawg PaulyBirth Name: PaulyCurrent Alias: Spacedawg PaulySpecies: Human-Canine HybridDate of Birth: February 22, 1973Place of Birth: Washington, D.C., United States, Earth, Sol SystemOccupations: Former Chef, Brewer, Distiller, Garden Worker, Apprentice Cobbler; Current First Mate on the Mandoleer's Folly, Lieutenant in the Royal Canadian Space Cavalry (RCSC) Overview Spacedawg Pauly is a unique entity whose life story spans both Earth and the... and the Alchemist. Ed and MaelstromOrigin and Early Life Maelstrom, a Gichi-manidoo from the Rogue Moon of Giizis Babaa-ayaa in the Ontario Sector, is distinguished by her blue-furred, wild cat-like features. A member of the humanoid species with a deep connection to nature, she embodies the physical and spiritual traits of her heritage. Maelstrom’s life took a significant turn when she relocated to the bustling... declined, opting instead for Henry’s CBD-infused whiskey.
As they relaxed under the glass roof, Henry handed over a tablet, transferring the funds for their delivery. But before they could depart, he had another proposition for them—a mission to deliver a special package to a friend in the Nunavut SectorOverview A Sector, commonly referred to as a Provincial Sector, is a designated area of space within the broader and diverse cosmic region known as the Canadian Expanse. These Sectors function similarly to provinces, contributing to the organization and governance of this vast territory. Structure and Division The Canadian Expanse is divided into thirteen Provincial Sectors, each with its own....
With recent pirate activity in the area, Henry was concerned for his friend’s safety and offered extra compensation if they took down any threats along the way.
Captain Alvis accepted the mission without hesitation, knowing that the crew of the Mandoleer’s Folly was more than capable of facing whatever challenges lay ahead. And so, with a renewed sense of purpose, they set course for their next adventure, ready to brave the unknown once more.
—
As the gentle hum of the ship’s engines faded into the background, Spacedawg found himself off duty, reclining in the company of Henry, enjoying the rich aroma of whiskey and the smooth draw of a cannabis cigar. The two bonded over shared stories and laughter, their friendship blossoming like the strains of cannabis that hung in the air.
“So, Spacedawg,” Henry began, his eyes sparkling with curiosity, “ever thought about taking a break from the hustle and bustle of space and enjoying some time on a quiet planet?”
Spacedawg’s ears perked up at the suggestion. “Actually, Henry, I’ve been meaning to. I’ve got a test coming up at RCSC Headquarters in a few months. Hoping to qualify for that canyon race they hold every year in the Chilliwack System
System Name: Chilliwack System Sector: British Columbia Sector Number of Planets: 4 Notable Features: Rich mineral resources, diverse ecosystems, significant trade hub Primary Star(s): Chilliwack Prime Astrophysical Characteristics Star Type(s): K-type main-sequence star (Orange Dwarf) Age of the System: 5.1 billion years Distance from Earth: 370 light-years Habitability: One habitable planet (Chilliwack Prime) Special Phenomena: Frequent solar flares and auroras....”
Henry’s interest piqued as Spacedawg explained the grueling three-leg race, his passion evident in every word. “That sounds intense,” Henry remarked, his admiration for Spacedawg’s determination evident. “Tell you what, my friend. I’ll sponsor you for the race. You pick out whatever ship you fancy, and I’ll foot the bill, as long as my business gets some good advertising.”
Spacedawg grinned at the offer. “You’ve got a deal, Henry. Just imagine, ‘Oh, look at the weed ship go!'”
Their laughter was interrupted by the shrill sound of an alarm, cutting through the tranquility of their off-duty time. Ed’s voice crackled over the intercom, breaking the news of an imminent threat.
“Sorry to interrupt your downtime, Spacedawg,” Ed’s voice echoed through the ship, “but I need you in Little Suzy. Show those pirates what a real pilot can do.”
Spacedawg nodded, his expression turning serious as he rose to his feet. “I’m on it, Captain,” he replied, determination etched into his features.
With Henry by his side, Spacedawg raced to the hangar, adrenaline coursing through his veins. Little Suzy awaited, a sleek fighter with advanced weaponry and maneuverability.
The battle was fierce, but the Mandoleer’s Folly cannons and Little Suzy’s agility proved too much for the pirates to handle. With precision and skill, they dispatched their foes, emerging victorious once more.
As Little Suzy touched down in the hangar, Ed’s voice sounded over the intercom once more, urging Spacedawg to the bridge. Maelstrom’s voice followed, reporting damage to one of the main engines.
With a sense of urgency, Spacedawg took his place at the controls, plotting a course for a nearby moon where they could make repairs undetected. The moon welcomed them with dense tropical plants and fresh water lakes, a sanctuary in the midst of chaos.
As the crew settled in for the night, taking turns on guard duty, Spacedawg found himself staring into the night sky, the gentle glow of his joint illuminating his face. Amidst the quiet of the moon’s surface, he found a moment of peace, grateful for the camaraderie of his crew and the unwavering support of his friend, Henry Weedmonger.
—
As the crew watches in awe and horror as the massive tendrils drag the blissed-out pirates away, they realize they’re dealing with something far beyond their expectations. The Alchemist’s theories about the cannabis rainforest’s defensive capabilities suddenly seem all too real.
Henry, with a mixture of fascination and concern, explains that the Jotuns, ancient beings with a deep connection to nature, must be responsible for the plant’s behavior. Their ability to communicate with plants is legendary, and it seems they’ve taken offense to the pirates’ intrusion.
With the immediate threat neutralized, the crew cautiously approaches the ancient ruin hidden within the rainforest. As they venture deeper, they discover remnants of advanced technology intertwined with the natural surroundings, a testament to the Jotuns’ harmonious blend of science and nature.
Suddenly, they come face to face with a lone JotunConservation Status Not Evaluated (NE) Scientific Classification Kingdom: Animalia Phylum: Chordata Class: Mammalia Order: Primates Family: Hominidae Genus: Gigantus Species: G. sapiens Binomial Name Gigantus sapiens Common Names Jotun General Information Gigantus sapiens, commonly referred to as Jotun, are a towering species native to the Newfoundland and Labrador Sector, spreading across the New Kalmar Union. This species' cultural roots run..., towering and majestic amidst the verdant foliage. Its eyes, filled with ancient wisdom, regard the crew with a mix of curiosity and suspicion.
Henry steps forward, a gesture of respect and diplomacy. “We come in peace, most holy High Guru,” he says, addressing the JotunConservation Status Not Evaluated (NE) Scientific Classification Kingdom: Animalia Phylum: Chordata Class: Mammalia Order: Primates Family: Hominidae Genus: Gigantus Species: G. sapiens Binomial Name Gigantus sapiens Common Names Jotun General Information Gigantus sapiens, commonly referred to as Jotun, are a towering species native to the Newfoundland and Labrador Sector, spreading across the New Kalmar Union. This species' cultural roots run.... “We saw the desecration of this holy place at the hands of the pirates.”
The JotunConservation Status Not Evaluated (NE) Scientific Classification Kingdom: Animalia Phylum: Chordata Class: Mammalia Order: Primates Family: Hominidae Genus: Gigantus Species: G. sapiens Binomial Name Gigantus sapiens Common Names Jotun General Information Gigantus sapiens, commonly referred to as Jotun, are a towering species native to the Newfoundland and Labrador Sector, spreading across the New Kalmar Union. This species' cultural roots run... regards them silently for a moment before speaking, its voice resonating like the rustle of leaves in the wind.
“You are unlike the pirates who came before you,” says the High Guru, his tone cautious yet curious. “Why have you come to my jungle?”
Ed AlvisBiographical Information Also Known As: Captain Ed Alvis, Dr. Ed AlvisProfessions: Scientist, Musician, AdventurerAlma Mater: University of MarylandNotable Achievements: Ph.D. in Physics, Expertise in Structural Engineering Overview Ed Alvis is a renowned figure in both the scientific and musical communities, celebrated for his dual expertise as a physicist and a musician. His remarkable journey spans academic achievements, a profound musical... steps forward, his demeanor earnest. “We come seeking knowledge and friendship…”
The Alchemist shushes him and whispers to Ed,
“Only shaman of the JotunConservation Status Not Evaluated (NE) Scientific Classification Kingdom: Animalia Phylum: Chordata Class: Mammalia Order: Primates Family: Hominidae Genus: Gigantus Species: G. sapiens Binomial Name Gigantus sapiens Common Names Jotun General Information Gigantus sapiens, commonly referred to as Jotun, are a towering species native to the Newfoundland and Labrador Sector, spreading across the New Kalmar Union. This species' cultural roots run... may speak to the High Guru.”
“Sorry.” Replied Ed.
“Your friend is forgiven, young one. He does not know the ways of the JotunConservation Status Not Evaluated (NE) Scientific Classification Kingdom: Animalia Phylum: Chordata Class: Mammalia Order: Primates Family: Hominidae Genus: Gigantus Species: G. sapiens Binomial Name Gigantus sapiens Common Names Jotun General Information Gigantus sapiens, commonly referred to as Jotun, are a towering species native to the Newfoundland and Labrador Sector, spreading across the New Kalmar Union. This species' cultural roots run..., nor should he!” He cackles gleeful, “I have been here the better have of 500 years, I haven’t had company in 100. Let me finish up here and I think we can put formalities aside. Could I interest you in a cup of tea afterwards? It won’t take long.”
A ceremony begins.
Henry bows and gives him an offering of seeds. A single seed is taken out and put into a special chamber.
The High Guru mumbles an incantation and the chamber begins to glow bright yellow and orange, transitioning into reds and purples, ending with white.
When the light subsided, a fully grown plant was standing there. The High Guru sniffed the flower and smiled,
“I grant you the rank of Master Cannamancer.”
Henry bows again and gives an additional gift of one of his most coveted vintage bottles of whiskey.
“This is almost ritualistic. “ Ed whispers to the Alchemist.
(A whispered conversation.)
“Because it is. Henry is a “Cannamancer,” meaning he is especially good at communicating with cannabis.”
“Like you and mushrooms?” Asked Ed.
“Precisely. My botanical specialty is mushrooms and how I control the movement of spores. I can alter a person’s perception with a mere twitch from my staff.”
“So what’s the ritual about?”
“Renewing his vows as a Cannamancer. Every ten years he must give an offering of his best seeds. He is then given great wisdom on how to improve and expand his knowledge. At some point, a JotunConservation Status Not Evaluated (NE) Scientific Classification Kingdom: Animalia Phylum: Chordata Class: Mammalia Order: Primates Family: Hominidae Genus: Gigantus Species: G. sapiens Binomial Name Gigantus sapiens Common Names Jotun General Information Gigantus sapiens, commonly referred to as Jotun, are a towering species native to the Newfoundland and Labrador Sector, spreading across the New Kalmar Union. This species' cultural roots run... is supposed to reach an enlightened state once they climb their gift as high as it will go.”
“What about this friend he has to meet?” Asked Ed.
“A metaphor, I believe. When you say you have a friend you’ve lost touch with, it basically means he has to renew his vows, kind of like a license.” Replied the Alchemist.
“Pretty trippy.” Says Ed, “What does that make you? A Fungimancer, Fungimage?”
The Alchemist chuckled,
“I think either would be acceptable. “
The ritual continued for a few more minutes and at some point, tea was served with butter tarts and Nanaimo bars.
With the ritual ended, the crew departs, their minds filled with wonder and curiosity, leaving the ancient ruin behind them as they continue their journey through the cosmos.
—
As the crew returns to the Mandoleer’s Folly, they waste no time preparing for their next encounter. With Spacedawg and Henry teaming up once again, they devise a plan to deal with potential threats along their journey.
“After seeing your skills in action, I’ve decided to fully fund your race,” Henry announces to Spacedawg, excitement gleaming in his eyes. “Consider it a loaner, but as soon as you break that record, it will become a piece of history.”
With Little Suzy ready for action, they set out, keeping a watchful eye on their surroundings. Henry warns them about potential decoys, prompting Spacedawg to deploy Maelstrom’s latest creation—Siren probes.
“These are Siren probes,” Spacedawg explains, “both camouflage and weapons. They project holographic images of any ship we want, and if discovered, they detonate, causing explosive decompression.”
As the pirates approach, Spacedawg fires a warning shot, but instead of just warning, it obliterates the lead ship, catching the pirates off guard. The ensuing battle sees the Mandoleer’s Folly providing support as Spacedawg and the Siren probes engage the enemy.
Despite the pirates’ efforts, they are no match for the combined firepower of the crew. The Siren probes wreak havoc among the enemy ranks, leaving destruction in their wake.
As the last remnants of the pirate fleet crumble, Little Suzy lands safely in the Mandoleer’s Folly hangar, the crew victorious once again.
—
With the threat neutralized, the Mandoleer’s Folly continued its journey, the steady thrum of its engines echoing through the vast expanse of space. As they charted their course back to Vancouver Prime, Henry’s mind wandered, contemplating the possibilities of a new strain tailored to Spacedawg’s unique needs.
“It’s settled then,” Henry declared with a grin. “I’ll start working on something special for you, Spacedawg. I look forward to seeing you in action.”
The remainder of the trip back to Vancouver Prime passed uneventfully, with Spacedawg taking the opportunity to showcase his culinary skills, treating Henry and the crew to a sumptuous feast as a token of gratitude.
Upon their arrival, Henry bid them farewell, generously compensating them for their efforts. For Ed, there was no question—when it came to priorities, Henry always took precedence.
However, their respite was short-lived as a message arrived from RCSC HQ, summoning them to the Chilliwack SystemSystem Name: Chilliwack System Sector: British Columbia Sector Number of Planets: 4 Notable Features: Rich mineral resources, diverse ecosystems, significant trade hub Primary Star(s): Chilliwack Prime Astrophysical Characteristics Star Type(s): K-type main-sequence star (Orange Dwarf) Age of the System: 5.1 billion years Distance from Earth: 370 light-years Habitability: One habitable planet (Chilliwack Prime) Special Phenomena: Frequent solar flares and auroras.... Spacedawg couldn’t shake the feeling that this mission was different, something beyond the ordinary.
The trip took a few days, the inter-star system highway bustling with activity as they navigated through space.
Upon their arrival in the Chilliwack SystemSystem Name: Chilliwack System Sector: British Columbia Sector Number of Planets: 4 Notable Features: Rich mineral resources, diverse ecosystems, significant trade hub Primary Star(s): Chilliwack Prime Astrophysical Characteristics Star Type(s): K-type main-sequence star (Orange Dwarf) Age of the System: 5.1 billion years Distance from Earth: 370 light-years Habitability: One habitable planet (Chilliwack Prime) Special Phenomena: Frequent solar flares and auroras..., they were greeted by Squadron 666, a formidable force comprised of capital ships dedicated to special operations. The flagship, RCSC DOOHAN, hailed them, revealing Admiral James Montgomery, a figure of authority from RCSC covert and special operations.
As the conversation unfolded on the main view screen, Admiral Montgomery’s attention turned to Spacedawg, commending his prowess in combat and proposing a challenge—an impromptu race against seasoned pilots from the RCSC.
Spacedawg hesitated, glancing to Agent Ebner for guidance, but her nod of approval spurred him on. With a pat on the shoulder from Ed, Spacedawg accepted the challenge, determined to prove himself in this unexpected trial.
“Very well, sir,” Spacedawg replied with resolve. “I’ll be ready shortly.”
As the shuttle arrived to ferry them to the challenge ahead, Spacedawg’s anticipation grew, fueled by the camaraderie of his crew and the thrill of the unknown that awaited him in the Chilliwack Canyon.
The shuttle ride took a few minutes. Spacedawg PaulyBirth Name: PaulyCurrent Alias: Spacedawg PaulySpecies: Human-Canine HybridDate of Birth: February 22, 1973Place of Birth: Washington, D.C., United States, Earth, Sol SystemOccupations: Former Chef, Brewer, Distiller, Garden Worker, Apprentice Cobbler; Current First Mate on the Mandoleer's Folly, Lieutenant in the Royal Canadian Space Cavalry (RCSC) Overview Spacedawg Pauly is a unique entity whose life story spans both Earth and the... and Agent Celine dressed in their official RCSC uniforms. Officially, Agent Celine carried the rank of Major.
A crowd had gathered to greet them. Admiral Montgomery shook their hands and said there was a last-minute special delivery for Spacedawg.
Spacedawg could hardly believe his eyes—it was a decked-out fighter with Henry’s logo plastered all over it.
Spacedawg was pumped, looking forward to seeing what Henry’s ship could do. The ship handled like a dream, outclassing the RCSC fighters. Its top-notch weapons systems made short work of the drones, and to top it off, Spacedawg PaulyBirth Name: PaulyCurrent Alias: Spacedawg PaulySpecies: Human-Canine HybridDate of Birth: February 22, 1973Place of Birth: Washington, D.C., United States, Earth, Sol SystemOccupations: Former Chef, Brewer, Distiller, Garden Worker, Apprentice Cobbler; Current First Mate on the Mandoleer's Folly, Lieutenant in the Royal Canadian Space Cavalry (RCSC) Overview Spacedawg Pauly is a unique entity whose life story spans both Earth and the... set records across the board.
He could hardly believe he had it in him. He won! He had the privilege of flying such a fine spacecraft.
There was much revelry. Spacedawg was awarded his golden wings and a promotion to Commander.
At a reception afterwards, a surprise guest arrived—Henry Weedmonger! Henry told the Admiral about the ship and the sponsorship. The Admiral made a bet with him and decided they’d move the timeline up to keep Spacedawg on his toes.
