You come out of Hyperspace facing a large green and blue moon orbiting an orange planet.

The primary planet in system 1136 is a moonworld orbiting one of the three Gas Giants in the system. There do not seem any other inhabitable worlds in this system. At least, no others are recorded.

It is a Garden world with a diameter and temperature like earth and half covered with oceans of water, though the database says the gravity is only 84% of earth. To map the planet from orbit, otherwise known as a detailed orbital survey, will take approximately 2 days.

Since I assume the system is charted, we'll do a system mapping and the orbital planetary survey. Also look for any signs of High Tech Life or Medieval Life (I realize this is unlikely, but it's good practice).
This message was last edited by the player at 18:27, Tue 05 Jan 2016.

"We should do a map from orbit and look for any signs of civilization or life. We should also record the weather and temperatures. We didn't bring any probes, did we?

Not that I am aware of... should they be standard issue on one of these?

In reply to Cyril Zotmund (msg # 4):

"I can modify a missile to be a probe, but it will take a few days. Still the other opetations will take longer."

Thanks Duke, But I don't think it's worth it to us this time... it might be at a future system though... and we should present that concept to Andrew on our return.

In reply to Raymond 'Duke' Vurhund (msg # 5)

"Probes are pretty common, but take cargo space, and we needed all ours for supplies. A system mapping will take Ten days, and an orbital planetary mapping will take 12 days. A brief planetary survey will take just an hour or so, and is best done by landing briefly."

Not overly excited about landing on an unknown surface... 

In reply to Cyril Zotmund (msg # 8):

"Wont be that unknown after a planetary mapping survey."

Ive seen quick sand and vegetation that looked solid but was anything but... and radar or other sensors aren't great at determining the difference between water soaked land and vegetation covered water... so I'm leery... although we should be able to find  safe spot if it is critical.

In reply to Cyril Zotmund (msg # 10):

"Yeah. Rocks still be rocks..."

Cyril smiles Hopefully so...

In reply to Cyril Zotmund (msg # 12):

"So, get started on the System mapping? As we said, it will take 10 days."

No, a Planetary survey should suffice... it's too close to Tunguska to meet Andrew's guidance.

In reply to Cyril Zotmund (msg # 14):

The lack of a proper survey module means PO Gun takes 4 hours instead of one, and despite the penalty, he determines, that the data gathered in the previous survey was accurate. Whilst he is interpreting the data, you have the opportunity to land and refuel. It will take the fuel processors over three hours to process the water into fuel once you do so.

OK... so a quick check of the surrounds provide anything of interest? Not leaving the immediate area of the ship, just looking out there with sights or whatever.

In reply to Cyril Zotmund (msg # 16):

The shore you land on has basic vegetation, some of which may or may not be edible. Most are no more than shrubs, though you do notice some berries and small droppings nearby. The water tests show it to be clear and suitable for drinking.

We'll add that to our survey information. Soon as we can we will depart.

"So we are not going down? That would be the fun part, stepping on to a planet others have never been on"

Ummm we already have landed... and are now close to leaving again...

In reply to Cyril Zotmund (msg # 20):

"Although unfortunately others have landed on this planet before. If we are just getting fuel, let us know when we are ready to leave for the next system. I would like to see if there are bigger critters around before we go."
This message was last edited by the GM at 09:00, Wed 06 Jan 2016.

In reply to Tanya Weaver (msg # 21):

It takes about a 3 1/2 hours to pump water through the refiner to make refined fuel, an operation Duke stays to oversea. Tanya wishes she had room for her Grav bike, but heads off to see if she can find something bigger than a bug to shoot, inviting others to join her (Captains permission withstanding}.

Captain is not thrilled with the idea and suggests they stay with in sight of the ship...  Be our luck that you'll find a large meat-eating dinosaur, at around six feet range.

In reply to Cyril Zotmund (msg # 23):

"Sigh. Just like Captain Maya. Ok, I will."

Yes, she is a fine Captain in my view...

In reply to Cyril Zotmund (msg # 25):

Tanya heads off, and returns after two hours with a dead small furry creature with a relatively large laser rifle injury, and a big smile.

"Got some work for Kyamoto!"

It looks beyond resuscitating... smiling

In reply to Cyril Zotmund (msg # 27):

"Half way to barbecued in fact. A journey I would like to complete once I know it is safe to eat."

Bored with our rations already?  Well let Kyamoto see it and decide... I guess you'll be the Guinea Pig... although I am concerned about losing your talents.

Kat gets her rifle and puts on her armor and grabs a backpack with some rations "I am going out and take a look to see what is out there"
This message was last edited by the player at 23:40, Thu 07 Jan 2016.

In reply to Katherine 'Kat' Steele (msg # 30):

"I will leave this with these guys and join you."

[Private to Katherine 'Kat' Steele: Need a survival roll(any non urban) -4 due to unfamiliarity. Then a rifle roll if survival is successful.]

We hope to be leaving shortly ourselves and would very much enjoy your coming along...

Kat heads off with Tanya.

[Private to GM: Katherine 'Kat' Steele rolled 9 using 3d6 with rolls of 2,4,3.  survival. She does not have survival, she is a space  girl]

In reply to Cyril Zotmund (msg # 32):

"Oh, we got another hour or two. Besides, she is driving, right?" She says with a cheeky grin as they leave.

Only if she is here when we leave...

"I would like to see anyone else drive as well as me" she says with a wave of her hand.

Probably won't at first... but we'll learn... you have one Hour.

In reply to Cyril Zotmund (msg # 37):

After 50 minutes of stalking and hunting, Kat spots a small creature like the one Tanya shot, but it takes off before she can get a shot off.

"I guess we should head back, hopefully I will see something on the way back"

Cyril has the power brought up to warm the systems ... a faint hum can be heard.

The trip back reveals no such creatures, and takes the girls approximately 8 minutes. Both girls are very tired, as the dense atmosphere seems to make the exercise so much more difficult.

Taking off, the Jeremiah Jones eases into orbit. Tanya works to set a course to the Jump point, as well as plotting a course through hyperspace to the system 1337. Duke prepares the Jump drive to function when they reach the jump point in this system.

Kat pilots the vessel to the desired location.[Private to Katherine 'Kat' Steele: Kat, Piloting roll please.]

Kat grabs some water and hits the pilots seat. Then she takes off and fly's.

Today: Katherine 'Kat' Steele rolled 9 using 3d6 with rolls of 2,2,5.  Piloting.[Private to GM: Wow, made it by 9]

Glad you two made it back in time, Kat...

In reply to Cyril Zotmund (msg # 43):

"You would not have done it! Even an hour would make no difference to our schedule. It is not like this is a military operation..."

She puts the final touches to the Navigation computer as the vessel cruises to the jump point.

"Ready to Jump, Duke"

In reply to Katherine 'Kat' Steele (msg # 42):

The vessel prepares for the jump and launches into Hyperspace with ease.

With the week to study the creature, Kyamoto is pretty sure it would be safe to eat. It seems something like a primitive wombat, though it's keen sense of hearing and well developed legs for running suggest there were predators that hunted it.

After just 166 hours in hyperspace, you exit. Ahead of you is a Gas Giant, but no planet is in sight. A quick check of the sensors, and a navigation check by Tanya reveals that you have come out at the Gas Giant without a life-bearing moon. In fact, this one has no moon. The other Gas Giant with a life-bearing moon is about 5 days away at maximum manoeuvre speed. You can, however, refuel here with a successful piloting roll.

Well... could be a lot worse... let's get the astronomical map updated.

In reply to Cyril Zotmund (msg # 46):

"Uh, yeah. 10 days for a full system map while we travel to the other planet should do it. From the size of the planet, a full orbital survey will take one day, and then we can conduct a proper Biological survey."

She proceeds to start using PO Gun's data to build up the map.

That's longer than I wanted, but it may well be worth it in the long run... it's sort of on the way to anywhere in these parts.

In reply to Cyril Zotmund (msg # 48):

The ships company works well together over the next ten days to build a system map. The arrive at the other Gas Giant after 8 days, with delays due to the priority given to mapping the system.

The planet, from the initial survey, is a little warmer than earth, with 72% of the surface covered by water. With a diameter of 4400 miles, the gravity is just 0.78 G, yet the air is denser than earth. Still, other than being tiring, the air is breathable without special equipment, and a reducer will even reduce how tiring it is. So will acclimatization, if you spend that long there.

Kat pilots the vessel in a 'ball of string' manoeuvre to map the planets surface, while Gun will monitor and map the surface.

"I knew I should have brought some books to read. I have done more mapping then I ever have in my life"

In reply to Katherine 'Kat' Steele (msg # 50):

"I am guessing this is the first planet you have really had to map out...please just keep us in position."

Kat keeps the ship in position as much as possible.

Today: Katherine 'Kat' Steele rolled 11 using 3d6 with rolls of 3,4,4.  Piloting.

In reply to Katherine 'Kat' Steele (msg # 52):

Kat holds the vessel in good positions to map the planets surface. There are several continents with numerous active volcanoes and a few very strong electric storms, and PO Gun notes what he thinks to be a rather large life form.

Interesting, please define Large, since we only see things that are miles across.

In reply to Cyril Zotmund (msg # 54):

"Yes, let me check those sensor readings again..."

He taps away for a few minutes.

"Oh sorry, it was a reef. I thought I saw something moving in the ocean, but I was mistaken."

Whew... reefs are living things I agree, but fortunately not inclined to chase folks around.

Kat grins "OK, so lets do the mapping. Then lets see if there is anyplace we can go down to"

Hopefully, we need to distill some fuel.

In reply to Cyril Zotmund (msg # 58):

"Yes, there are several places that look suitable. It kind of looks like a prehistoric version of Earth, but a Biological and Geographical study will make that clearer."

Not sure we'll be doing that...  takes a lot of time.... but it's certainly a decent candidate.

In reply to Cyril Zotmund (msg # 60):

"Well, Gun is just finishing the planetary map, so what is next, captain?"

Refuel and move on... check the next place...  Andrew will decide where he wants to move to when he does his reviews. Well probably do a more detailed survey then.

In reply to Cyril Zotmund (msg # 62):

Like a well oiled machine, the crew goes to action. Tanya plots a jump point and a path to it, and then a path to the next system, while kat takes them there and Duke is ready on the jump drive.

System 1339 has only been mapped from a distance. If anyone has visited there, they never returned with the data, so Tanya double checks everything.

Ooc: Kat, will need Piloting roll

"So we don't get to have any fun with going down to any of the planets Captain?" she says as she pilots the ship.

ooc-Katherine 'Kat' Steele rolled 8 using 3d6 with rolls of 1,3,4.  Piloting.

We went down, refueled and headed out...no hunting trips. work to do...

In reply to Cyril Zotmund (msg # 65):

"Well, there is no record of anyone visiting this next planet, so we surely should visit there."

In reply to Tanya Weaver (msg # 66):

The ship is guided to the jump point, and eases into Hyperspace, as you are all used to. Your supplies are now approaching 75% as you exit hyperspace. The Gas Giant is more distant, but the moon ahead of you is approximately the size of earth, with a diameter of about 7300 miles, and just as colourful, though much, much bluer.
This message was last edited by the GM at 03:42, Tue 12 Jan 2016.

Would appear to be a mostly water world...or maybe all water. Our mapping won't penetrate water very deep will it.

In reply to Cyril Zotmund (msg # 68):

"Mapping will penetrate water to map what is below the water, but it will only detect large features. Maping will bring up islands though."

He pauses, then gives an odd look at the instruments.

"Sir, I am getting an odd reading from one of the other Gas Giant. It could be another vessel, but there is no IFF."

OK, lets close up and go to General Quarters until we know what we have... Kat, hide us behind the planet.

In reply to Cyril Zotmund (msg # 70):

"[Language unknown: Stitrawas econsi, foisar ti st ughoreted u encntelareen.]"

In reply to Unknown Ship (msg # 71):

"Uh, he is still too far away to scan. He will take 6 hours to get here at his current speed, but there are five smaller craft he is launching."

Ooc: Experimenting with languages...how do you read the post above?

Send "UNS Jeremiah Jones, Survey ship. Non-Hostile."

In reply to Cyril Zotmund (msg # 73):

There is no response, but four of the craft form attack formations and start closing much faster than the rest. They will be at your position in 4 hours.

OK, we do not have sufficient anything to jump, correct? Those little fighters will eat us alive... can anyone think of a way to communicate?

In reply to Cyril Zotmund (msg # 75):

"They are still 4 hours away. We should be able to refuel in that time, but getting away will be cutting it close. What are they armed with?"

In reply to Tanya Weaver (msg # 76):

"Can't tell at this range  But theyare twice as big as regular fighters."

"Well, is there anyway to hide in a gas giant? Also, if we have to fight the fighters, where is the best place for that?" she starts heading towards the gas giant away form the fighters as they talk.

OK, Refuel... can't tell if they are hostile, but it does look that way. Gun da bin, see if you can discern anything from or sensors. I don't want to start a fight if we can avoid it.
This message was last edited by the player at 03:53, Wed 13 Jan 2016.

In reply to Cyril Zotmund (msg # 79):

"Flying and hiding in a gas giant is never that safe. We would be better off, and safer, underwater on the planet, where we could refuel to boot."

OK, let's do that then, but lets act now... the longer we wait, the less time we have to fuel up...

In reply to Cyril Zotmund (msg # 81):

"Set course for what appears to be a shallow area of water on the planet."

Kat, need a Piloting(Aerospace) roll -2 to land underwater

Kat turns the ship and heads for the surface of the planet "Should we find a deep area so we can hide better? If the area is too shallow, we could be seen"

Katherine 'Kat' Steele rolled 11 using 3d6 with rolls of 6,4,1.  Piloting.[Private to GM: With the -2, I made it by 5]

In reply to Katherine 'Kat' Steele (msg # 83):

"Yes, but in such a dense medium, a deep area could crush the hull. In a shallow area, we can sit on the bottom and power down the engines."

"I will see if I can fine a mucky area so it will cover us some to camouflage us"

A big cloud of muck would be a give away... sandy with Rocks ... big rocks, would work best.

"OK, as I fly over the water, scan the area for something like that."

In reply to Katherine 'Kat' Steele (msg # 87):

You find an estuary near a continental shelf, and land in the water, diving beneath.

Duke opens the pump nozzle, not needing a hose, and begins pumping. Within an hour, your tanks are full of water, and the refiner is working hard to convert it to hydrogen fuel.

Suddenly, the laser Communicator comes to life!

In reply to Fate (msg # 88):

"Captain, that has a very short range underwater...wait, that is a Terran signal! We are being hailed on a secure line!"

OK, Acknowledge receipt

In reply to Cyril Zotmund (msg # 90):

"This is the survivors of the AK Explorer, or at least some of them. Can we send two officers aboard through the air lock..."

Affirmative

In reply to Cyril Zotmund (msg # 92):

There is no response for five minutes, then the airlock activates. Two rather sickly humans in Biosuits enter it from outside, before the water drains from the lock. The relief on their faces is obvious when they remove their helmets and open the airlock to enter the ship proper.

Doctor Kyamoto to the ward room please .. gentlemen , come in and sit down,My Doctor will be here shortly...you both look not well. Tell me what happened and how many more of you are there? Is Your ship repairable? Are you hungry?

In reply to Cyril Zotmund (msg # 94):

"We are diabetics, and our insulin has been rationed since most of it was destroyed in the crash. Short vrrsion of our story, we were exploring to find a good site for a remote colony. When we jumped in here, we met an Alien vessel that approached and opened fire without warning. Our ship, the AK Explorer did not even have a chance to launch fighters, of which we have 2. We crashed into a shallow bay, and have maintained a secret group of survivors since There are 35 of us, and most are doing fine, but we will die soon without medication.

The Aliens appear to be involved in a civil war, hence they assume any ship here that is not theirs is hostile. Both sides seem to use plasma weapons and heavily armoured ships almost exclusively, and missiles are very effective against them. We have some understanding of their language, but do not wish to risk communication since crashing."

After settling the ship, Kat walks in and listens to the story of the men who have come aboard.

In reply to Explorers (msg # 95):

OK... That likely explains their reception... how much of their language can you provide... Can your ship be repaired?

Dr Kyamoto, do we have the necessary drugs to help these men?

In reply to Cyril Zotmund (msg # 97):

"Most of the ship is being repaired, but the hyperdrive is broken and needs some replacement parts we can't make. In the meantime, we have built an underwater mine to ensure we can produce some things.

Our knowledge of their language is broken, but we have a computer with us with all information on it we have gathered."

Gun Da Bin, can you upload and analyze the language please. My Chief Engineer can do miracles on occasion, perhaps he will find an answer. You have food then?  What cargo were you carrying?

In reply to Cyril Zotmund (msg # 99):

"We were an exploration vessel, so we mainly had supplies, but some of them were lost when we came down. But this planet has many native flora and fauna that are edible, so the colony will not be short of food.

We started calling it a colony when we realised the hyperdrive could not be fixed. The manoeuvre drive is not operating at the moment either. Couple of plasma bolts in the engine room will do that..."
This message was last edited by the GM at 10:54, Fri 15 Jan 2016.

So to your knowledge, the Aliens have not colonized this world, just outpost it?

Kyamoto ... do we have any insulin? Or capability to synthesize it?

In reply to Cyril Zotmund (msg # 101):

"Sorry, sir, was just checking. We have a months supply for one person in the medical supplies, but we would need an animal, like a pig, or certain bacteria we don't carry to synthesize some more."

In reply to Petty Officer Kyamoto (msg # 102):

"The Aliens cannot breath this atmosphere, so they have not established an outpost even. We were able to do autopsies on a crashed scout. But both sides monitor the system for hostile activities."

"What about a sea animal of some kind? I mean if it is a mammal that is? Has any life been seen in the water here?"

In reply to Explorers (msg # 103):

I wonder what they breathe...  and I wonder how closely thy monitor the surface. We might be able to go up and hunt, clear an area to move the ships to under camouflage etc.

In reply to Cyril Zotmund (msg # 105):

"They breath some sort of sulfuric gas as well as oxygen, if the tanks we found in their ships are anything to go by. They have a tough external skin that acts like a space suit, but they still need breathers.

Our ships are already camouflaged, and we are not sure of their scanning ability, but we try not to give them reason to test it. We are pretty sure they monitor all radio activity, though they are not as advanced as us or the Vilani. We think they only have Jump 1 drives and fission plants.

There are fish that we eat, some of which are predators though none too big we have met."

But you obviously have been out on the surface? I assume while out side of the planet is not visible to them?

In reply to Cyril Zotmund (msg # 107):

"We can be detected on the surface if they are close, so we don't usually risk it unless we know where they are. It is distance that protects us from their sensors more than the atmosphere."

They move to scan even as the planet moves?

"So can you track them from under water?" she wondered if they could track them from under water.

That is a fine question Kat... I think that if their technology is Jump 1, then perhaps their sensors are also as backward ... although there is certainly no guarantee in that.

Dr Kyamoto.. lets give these two men a good shot of inulin...  gentlemen, are their other also in need of insulin?

In reply to Cyril Zotmund (msg # 111):

"No, we were the only diabetics, thanks. The water reduces sensor effectiveness, but the can be recalibrated to work under water, but it takes time to do so."

Do you think these aliens can be dealt with or is it all or nothing?

In reply to Cyril Zotmund (msg # 113):

"The stronger group seem to be religious fanatics, but the weaker group we know nothing about. We just see them get destroyed occasionally."

"We don't want to get involved in a war. Can you all let us know how you recalibrated your sensors? Then we need to figure out how to make a run for it"

In reply to Katherine 'Kat' Steele (msg # 115):

"Well, we had to extend the antennas well beyond the hull, and mount them externally to account for the lower wavelength. Then we had to modify the circuits to the lower frequency, and imcrease the power supply. Once we did that, we had to recalibrate the computer to the new freqencies, and make sure we removed any harmonics from the system. But since the fighters should still be an hour away, you guys should make a run for it, because if they start searching for you, they might find us."

In reply to Explorers (msg # 116):

"Captain, the tanks are full, but the refiner will need another 90 minutes to finish. But we can be flying while it does so."

OK, so do you know what system these aliens come from? And is there anyone of your folks we might need to evacuate? I can't take you all, but I can get help sent here. We will leave what Insulin we have with you and hopefully Dr. Kyamoto can provide you complete instructions on what is involved in making some...do you have a decent medic or Dr aboard? PO  Gun da Bin, we need to give them their computer stuff back.  Let's get ready to fly ... Sigourney, Missiles on the Fighters if they threaten ... in fact if they are in range, shoot them.  Tanya, get Kat to the jump point ... Kat you need to do your magic to get us out of here as soon as these gents are safely away and any coming with us are aboard.

In reply to Cyril Zotmund (msg # 118):

They become quite alarmed when you suggest asking them to leave.

"We have a capable medic, but the creatures on this planet are not suitable for the production of insulin. Our captain sent us here so you could evacuate us, and gave us one computer with all the vital information on it that we know in the hope that you would use it to bring help. Basically, she prepared us to be ready to go, because we did not anticipate you staying long."

In reply to Cyril Zotmund (msg # 118):

"Captain, which system should we be ready to jump to?"

So she is thinking ahead of me   he smiles, who is your captain? She sounds very competent.

We will indeed see you to safety and bring aid.  Tanya, Kat, I was going to jump to our next planned system but now have two concerns... one is that is too may be guarded by these aliens and two is that we have a limited amount of insulin for these men. I am wondering if we shouldn't cut or trip short and get back to Andrew... this planet would do nicely for his plans and we do him or the survivors who are relying on us,  no good if we are dead. Any other ideas?

"I have to agree, I think we should cut it short and take these men to safety and then see who we can get to return so we can deal with these aliens. Maybe I could try to learn some of the language and either get a treaty or at least a truce so they don't go attacking everyone who comes into the system.

I was thinking the same... OK, Tanya we go back the way we came...  we'll need to adjust our sleeping arrangements some... but with the supplies we have used, I think we can manage that.

In reply to Cyril Zotmund (msg # 121):

"Thank you. Captain Kruschov is quite capable. The Aliens only have jump 1 drives, so as long as you make a 2 parsec jump, we don't believe they can follow. But we also wish to report back to Andrew as soon as possible, if he has passed through Vilani space, as it was for the colony ships he was escorting that we were exploring.

Ironically, we may be best to choose a side in the aliens war to ensure peace long term."

In reply to Explorers (msg # 124):

"Right. Plotting a course for 1337....jump point 750,000 miles away! Kat, lets launch and get out of here while I plot the way through hyperspace."

Let the Explorer know that we are taking these two and will be back...

In reply to Cyril Zotmund (msg # 126):

"Sir, the modified G-Carrier that dropped them off has dissapeared, so it would seem they assumed that and have hidden themselves again."
This message was last edited by the player at 22:46, Sat 16 Jan 2016.

Roger, thanks,

Kat powers up the engines and maneuvers out of the water "See if you can get those aliens on sensors, Then we can try to sneak off the planet on the side they are not scanning.

In reply to Katherine 'Kat' Steele (msg # 129):

"Sir, getting sensor readings from 400,000 miles away. They seem to have split into two pairs and are preparing to straddle the planet. Tanya has wisely set a jump point on the opposite side of the planet to them, but it is 750,000 miles away."

OK, they are out of range, let's see if they are faster than we are... keep tracking tem and we'll get some idea of how fast they are.

In reply to Cyril Zotmund (msg # 131):

"They are coming in at 180,000 miles/minute, sir. We are only capable of 120,000, so with a closing speed of 60,000 miles a minute, it will be close."

I understand Tanya, but if we can leave without killing anyone... so much the better when we return... Their Plasma weapons are quite short ranged.

In reply to Cyril Zotmund (msg # 133):

"20,000 clicks. But they are just fighters, so if someone has to die, I choose them..."

No question, and before they are in Range too... but if we can avoid it, I still choose that route. Gun da In is tracking hem and Sigourney and Rodney can blow them away if it comes to that.


OOC- If they don't turn away and bore in ... we'll fire missiles at 30,000 M. I think that's max range IIRC... checked your page on such earlier.

Kat tries to out maneuver them as much as possible. "Lets just get out of here so we don't have to take sides.

In reply to Katherine 'Kat' Steele (msg # 136):

The Jeremiah Jones lifts into orbit, and the small saucer- shaped vessels continue to close. One minute after liftoff they are 300,000 miles away, but you are 620,000 miles from the jump point.

Kat tries to push the ship to its limits so they can get away with out killing anyone.

In reply to Katherine 'Kat' Steele (msg # 138):

Kat pushes the ship onwards, but they push on after you.

After another minute, you are still 500,000 miles from the jump point, but they have closed to 240,000 miles.

From the turrents you hear Sigorney "Captain, they are going to have a few shots at us at this rate. Perhaps a few missiles will slow them down."

Aye,  take them out.... or at least give them pause.

In reply to Cyril Zotmund (msg # 140):

"Launching...one missile each or both missiles on one target?"

One apiece is fine... then reload and we'll put two one one if need be.

In reply to Cyril Zotmund (msg # 142):

The two missiles slam into their respective targets, with the fighters making no attempt to shoot them down. The fighters erupt, but the other 2 continue on closing to 180,000 miles, so a second pair of missiles are launched. You are still 380,000 miles from the jump point.

Seems fair... obviously "deadicated" do or die sorts...

In reply to Cyril Zotmund (msg # 144):

"Yes, from what we can gather, the dominant side in the civil war are religious fanatics that believe dying in battle is the surest way to heaven."

Lovely... and it's so expensive to assist them on their way...

In reply to Cyril Zotmund (msg # 146):

"That it is, sir. Seems like they decided to make it more expensive...they just shot down the next two missiles. Sending 2 more. They should be at 120,000 miles by the time these hit, or get shot down."

Try two on one... maybe the other will get the message.

"I have no problem helping them go meet their maker." she says as she continues flying at a breakneck speed.

In reply to Katherine 'Kat' Steele (msg # 149):

The third salvo targets a single fighter, but they seem to be getting the hang of missiles fast, and both are shot and destroyed.

A fourth salvo is launched, hitting the fighter as it closes to 60,000 miles and destroying it. Only the last fighter remains and enters Beam range.

Well light that sucker up for his God! ... and shoot some more missiles Sigourney!

In reply to Cyril Zotmund (msg # 151):

Sigorney and Rodney throw everything they have at the last craft. Sigorney scores one hit, but then, as the missiles close and the fighter takes its first shot, Rodney hits it three times and Sigorney finishes it off. The two missiles vapourize what is left. Just in time, as the jump point approaches.

Kat, Piloting please.

Today: Katherine 'Kat' Steele rolled 13 using 3d6 with rolls of 4,5,4.  piloting.

In reply to Katherine 'Kat' Steele (msg # 153):

The Jeremiah Jones reaches the jump point, and Duke activates the jump drive. The vessel slips easily into hyperspace, and you leave the system.

Approximately a week later, you finally emerge in system #1337, your supplies now down to about 50%
This message was last edited by the GM at 12:54, Wed 20 Jan 2016.

WE refuel and move on to Tunguska ... no Hunting... we'll need Insulin by then (assume a 1 month supply for 1 person is only two weeks for the two men.

In reply to Cyril Zotmund (msg # 155):

Stopping for just enough time to refuel, the Jeremiah Jones departs for system #1136, arriving about one week later, where they repeat the procedures. The crew has become familiar enough with the vessel that these routine jumps are...routine. Hence, it is 15 days later they arrive at Tunguska system, and are met by the system patrol.

We Identify ourselves and request permission to land.

In reply to Cyril Zotmund (msg # 157):

You are cleared to land, and directed to the landing zone. The date is 5th of August, and you still have $26,000 reserve, $11,500 of which will be needed for fees at the landing zone here, which will cover up to a weeks stay, supplies and fuel.

I'll ask Kyamoto  to go for Insulin... ask everyone else to standby  so we can keep moving.

[Private to Katherine 'Kat' Steele: So Kat, Can you get by with out the bar fly's patting your ass this time?  Or I could do it for you, if you'd like...]

In reply to Cyril Zotmund (msg # 159):

Kyamoto manages to get quite a good supply of insulin...1 years supply for one person, for $200.

Ground control asks about the details of your voyage, and your current weapons inventory, as a means of piracy control.

We tell them what we know and that they need to post a travelers warning on the 1139 system for aliens who shoot on sight.

In reply to Cyril Zotmund (msg # 161):

Your report, combined with the two new crew members, give considerable credence to the claims. It creates no small commotion, especially amoung the military.They take all information you have, and a number of Linguistics experts start analysing the voice samples gathered and brought by the survivors.

A freighter asks to travel back to Chrysolite with you, with a number of commanders and dignitaries to discuss the situation with them.

That's cool by us...

Kat tries to learn some of the alien language on the way back. She makes sure the ship is ready for everything before leaving again.

[Private to Cyril Zotmund: Yes, you can pat my ass and she will try not to shoot anyone else who does.]

Getting fuel together and organizing this little flight takes some time and coordination. Cyril wants to get back and report to Andrew.


[Private to Katherine 'Kat' Steele: Cyril obliges Kat, but only pats her butt twice before sliding his hand around and rubbing it ... exploring as he does so... You do have a lovely derriere Kat.]

In reply to Katherine 'Kat' Steele (msg # 164):

You stay for three days, before departing. Both of you set off for Chrysolite, arriving on the 15th. The Kalishnikov Base ship is in orbit, along with Andrews ship, a modified Karl Marx Carrier and many fighters. You are welcomed back, and asked to land in the hanger bay.

[OOC To learn the language or improve it one level, give me a Linguistics roll, default IQ-6.
Kat, you may be setting a dangerous precedent regarding your rear!]

Cyril obviously doesn't get it yet...

18:54, Today: Cyril Zotmund rolled 12 using 3d6 with rolls of 6,1,5.  IQ roll  for Alien Language.

Cyril may become possessive and protect her rear from further depredations... other than his own... we'll have to see!

Kat doesn't seem to mind if it is someone she likes as far as her ass.

She tries to learn the language and seems to pick it up with no problem.

Katherine 'Kat' Steele rolled 6 using 3d6 with rolls of 2,3,1.  IQ roll.[Private to GM: YAY, finally a good roll! So Do I add just the spoken as we would not have seen the language yet, is that right?  Also, can I add linguistics.]

Well Poo!... can you explain it to me?

In reply to Katherine 'Kat' Steele (msg # 168):

Kat seems to understand the recordings as well as anyone else.[Private to Katherine 'Kat' Steele: Add to languages, Alien, spoken; broken!] Cyril can keep trying, (one try per month) but he can't seem to follow its logic.

Andrew calls a meeting of the local military commanders and ypur bridge crew and the two from the AK Explorer to discuss the Alien situation.

The meeting starts with the survivors describing what they know of the Aliens:
- Jump 1 tech, plus plasmas, fission power supplies.
- Low tech computers and automation.
- Only one body has been analysed. They do not use space suits, and ships seem unpressurized, but they breath an air/sulphur mixture and have hard skin.
- Civil war.
- Predominant side religious fanatics, convert or kill others so far. Anti automation.
- Other side unmet, basically unknown.
- Ships and fighters generally large and well armoured.

After the meeting or in a break, I suggest two things to Andrew...

1. All these planets were once scanned by our ships, so these aliens seem to have moved in. Unlikely they live on a garden planet. so our limited knowledge might allow usto narrow down the planets they do live on. At the moment only Luuru meets that description, but is more than jump one away. It must then lie beyond our current knowledge. Planet 1740 is the only one to meet those criteria.

2. It might be quite lucrative to build a base, similar to the current workshop, but smaller, and locate it between these planets and the current Terran planets, to facilitate movement between them with out venturing into Vilani space. It would require a small fleet of tankers to keep it suppled, but would cut months off travel and avoid all the current issues with the Vilani. It could be located such that they couldn't get there without going through currently Terran controlled systems. Say between Chrysolite and Mirabellis. It could be moved to other similar "in between" locations if required. This would facilitate growth, trade and protection.
This message was last edited by the player at 03:27, Thu 21 Jan 2016.

In reply to Cyril Zotmund (msg # 171):

Andrews reply can be summarised as follows:

1) They could have existed on scanned but not visited planets for a long time. Long range scans are far from infallible, and can often miss a small or subtle presence. Garden planets can have atmospheres tainted with sulphur too, so we can not rule them out. Indeed, they also would seem to require food and water, making garden planets still likely.

2) An excellent idea, but Terra needs to pick up the tab on that one. No ship bigger than said base could use it, and so it would be a huge manufacturing undertaking. Similarly getting it into position and holding it there. But the Alien race might provide sufficient motivation for them to consider that seriously now.
This message was last edited by the GM at 11:26, Thu 21 Jan 2016.

But the small traders certainly could, and that well might push the Terran Government to make something larger for their warships. most traders are not so large.

In reply to Cyril Zotmund (msg # 173):

"It may work. I will have some folk look into it. but getting it into position will still take years, so lets not be counting on it."

OK, I though a converted merchantman ... perhaps an old one with extra tanks attached temporarily would be quick... the tanks should be easily removed and mated with a tanker for filling. The tankers just swap full tanks for empty ones. If it needs to move, it removes all tanks and becomes a ship again. Just thoughts, I'm sure the engineers could comment more authoritatively.

In reply to Cyril Zotmund (msg # 175):

"The problem is that it needs to get into position with manoeuvre drives, and that can take years, so a simple solution that will need replacing soon is simply a waste. Fuel is only needed for the jump drive, so the tanks would be pointless, except for refuelling other ships. But anyway, we can think about it. But we have more pressing matters..."

"Yes, like what are we going to do about the aliens. I am not sure about contacting the other side, we have no idea where they are. And remember, with fanatics, they might be suicidal. I don't want one crashing into my ship"

In reply to Katherine 'Kat' Steele (msg # 177):

"I have to say, I agree with Kat. We need to decide what to do about these Aliens now. Getting lines of supply from Terra is somewhat more of a long term goal, though a good one."

You should note that Andrew has become a dominant trader in the region, due to his ability to manufacture hi tech items that previously had to be imported.

How far along is Dastavka? The Jeremiah Jones has some serious limitations. A 10-or 15 ft insert in the hull to grant more storage and better weapons suites would help ... we were almost done in by 4 fighters of doubtful technology.

In reply to Cyril Zotmund (msg # 179):

"You wont be sent back in a scout, but let's get back to the meeting to sort out how the military want to handle it."

"I have studied their language and I have learned some of it. So if we go back in a scout, we should do it in a very fast ship so we could outrun the fighters. Then we might be able to find the other side."

That won't help the Explorer or let us colonize the place...

In reply to Cyril Zotmund (msg # 182):

"Actually it might, if they can be convinced to help defend it. Back to the meeting folks?"
This message was last edited by the GM at 08:36, Fri 22 Jan 2016.

You mean the other faction? If we can find them...

In reply to Cyril Zotmund (msg # 184):

You head back into the meeting after morning tea. The presentation on what is known about the Aliens has raised a lot of questions, such as "How far are they from developing Jump 2 drives?" and "Do they have nukes?". Unfortunately, there are too few answers.

There is also concern about the colony ships awaiting a destination, and the crew of the AK Explorer. Suggestions include

- Establishing a colony on #1337, and sending an evac team to get the survivors. Unfortunately, this does little to resolve the Alien question, it just prolongs it until they develop Jump-2 tech, which may not be long with the wreck of the Explorer in their hands.

- Establishing a colony on #1339. This will require defending, and most military vessels are here to watch against Vilani incursions, which have admittedly become quieter.

- Sending a couple of warships to try to establish an alliance with the side not yet met, based on a common enemy. But there are a LOT of unknowns here.

Most agree the problem cannot be ignored for long, and that a message needs to be sent back to Terra by very secure means. They decide to send the two survivors back to Terra, with a computer with a complex self destruct device in case of Vilani capture. A complex vover story is made for them, and they are prepared to depart. Andrew also suggests that they propose a mid-space base be constructed to facilitate transport between Chrysolite and Terra without passing through Vilani space.

How close are we to a Jump 3 capability? Anyone know? Travel through Vilani space is going to be very touchy... and the computer is very, very likely to be searched if found, based on our trip through. Perhaps an encrypted disk would be preferable.

In reply to Cyril Zotmund (msg # 186):

"Oh, it will be encrypted with out best technology, that is assumed. There will also be a false operating system 'mask', to make it appear as a simple personal computer if a simple search is carried out.

We know there are scientists working on Jump-3 technology, but it is top secret, so of course we don't know, and won't know, until they have a breakthrough."

"So do we have any ships that can outrun the fighters? If we don't, we might not be able to find the other side. So then we have to take on the one side and either negotiate with them or drive them back"

In reply to Katherine 'Kat' Steele (msg # 188):

"Maybe not. It might be if we move into the system #1339, they might come to us for assistance. Once we remove the initial presence, that is."

Or see us as a new attack on their religion...

In reply to Cyril Zotmund (msg # 190):

"From their reaction so far, they see the existence of anyone  that is not a member of their religion as an attack on their religion. If they don't spare even their own, we are going to have to fight them sometime."

I concur... on arrival, we will have to fight... and we have no idea of what they might bring next, assuming we can eliminate the first ship... which I think we could do fairly easily.

"That's why we need to go back in strength"

In reply to Cyril Zotmund (msg # 192):

"So the real question is, fight now, while they are still involved in a civil war, or fight later, after we have had time to observe them?"

There are various pros and cons, including the discussion regarding what ships are available. Most agree missiles will be most effective.

There is also the matter of a badly damaged Gashidda Patrol cruiser that turned up recently at Wallach after a jump drive malfunction. This might be a convenient way to make it 'dissapear', along with a few other vessels. It should have finished repairs in the next month or so.

Was the crew OK... ? we know of them...

In reply to Cyril Zotmund (msg # 195):

"Yes. Most of the crew have already returned. Carrick and Mnwa and one of the privateers joined up with the Jaques Cartier though and continued with their exploration."

In reply to Andrew Kalishnakov (msg # 196):

After much discussion, the suggestion is to modify the Yuri with a bigger hanger and main gun, and send it back (with 20 Short Range Missile Fighters) with the Midway (a Karl Marx modified to have a larger engine and a 320 dTon fighter cargo bay, with 50 SR Missile Fighters) the Dastavka (whose repairs will be sped up) and the Gashidda class vessel. These will escort the colony ships Adam Smith, Ariel and the Loch Ard, and the supply ship Buffalo Bill, a Lightning class merchant vessel with 600 spare missiles and 30 dTons of supplies. All these preparations will completed on the 20th of November. It is currently the 16th of September.

These ships should have a missile battery of 55 missiles (assuming the Dastavka installs 6 more missiles in it's empty hardpoints, as proposed by Andrew), plus 210 missiles from the fighters, backed up by the Yuri's Heavy Particle Cannon and Numerous beams.

Once there, the colony will be set up and the fighters based there, allowing the Midway to return within a month. The colony ships can then be modified to better serve as warships, but that will take up to a year.
This message was last edited by the GM at 10:02, Sat 23 Jan 2016.

OK... we'll get to work on plans and arrangements. Any thoughts as how to proceed  with the non-colony ships there after? I assume Dastavka isn't going to sit there after all you've done to fix her up... and where is Captain Maya? Haven't seen or heard her since we got back.

In reply to Cyril Zotmund (msg # 198):

She is overseeing repairs to her ship, but she will be briefed. Most of the warships will gaurd the colony, but I would think Dastavka can head out to explore that cluster from there."

Will she carry enough fuel now to do a double jump?

"Yes, that would be interesting. So when can we get this mission on the road?"

In reply to Katherine 'Kat' Steele (msg # 201):

"Well, according to the schedule discussed, we will be ready on the 20th November. That means we will be about 2 months preparing. You could take the Jeremiah Jones out again?"

For what purpose? Wouldn't it be better to upgrade it too?

In reply to Cyril Zotmund (msg # 203):

"Perhaps exploring other clusters. We have limited resources...we can only upgrade so many, and the small scouts serve well the way they are."
This message was last edited by the GM at 10:41, Sun 24 Jan 2016.

OK, so which direction did you have in mind? We could get to 1238E or either of 0035E,  or 0938E both of which are dead ends so to speak ... or some other direction.

In reply to Cyril Zotmund (msg # 205):

"It might be prudent to investigate planet at least 2 parsecs from the Aliens. There may be another route to their cluster."

True, but the Crockett's are poorly equipped to deal with enemy ships... hopefully we'll be able to communicate a bit better this time... Kat, you ready to travel?

"Sure, I am ready. I do think it would be good to make sure the Aliens are not there. Though who knows, maybe we will find the other side of the aliens." she says with a grin.

OK, Let's get it resupplied and ready to go again...

(assume much the same arrangements?)  Everyone back to normal bunks/cabins.

In reply to Cyril Zotmund (msg # 209):

You resupply, and are given more cash as you head out again by the 20th.

On what route?

Oh Route 66 for old times sake .... Tunguska to start for a quick refuel ... need to get to the map...

In reply to Cyril Zotmund (msg # 211):

Heh, ok. Map is in game map here.

OOC - Yup... but dealing with some computer issues...  anyway...

Crysolite -> Tunguska -> 1136E -> 1237E and 1239E if we can get there. We can then check 1339E, 1439E, 1440E or 1340E as we see fit.
I assume the E has some known meaning.. like explored or visited or something?

In reply to Cyril Zotmund (msg # 213):

Does E Mean exploding?  :)

In reply to Katherine 'Kat' Steele (msg # 214):

E refers to the starport level, with E actually referring to nothing but a piece of flat land.

The trip from Chrysolite to Tunguska to #1136 transpires much as it did before. Your funds drop to $38,000 at Tunguska, but you leave fully supplied and arrive in the system #1136 on the 6th of October, finding the system much as you left it.

Cyril grabs his account by the Neck...If I got a $100,000 and pay around $12,000 at each stop...you have some $54,000 to account for... NOW.

She looks at Cyril and the accountant. He must be using new age math.

In reply to Cyril Zotmund (msg # 216):

"Not that complicated. After the first trip, we stopped at Chrysolite and Tunguska twice, and what was left was returned back to Andrew to go towards wages, which were over $175 thousand per month. Andrew basically reset the balance for this trip to $50,000, but again, what is not used will go into wages, which well and truly exceed the petty change we have."

So we are on less money...OK... I set the accountant back down in his chair gently.

OOC - I am none too fond of accountants...

We refuel at 1136 and then jump to 1237, be very alert to Allen space craft.

In reply to Cyril Zotmund (msg # 219):

OOC Actually, who have you designated to look after accounts? If no one, it would be you...

Refuelling takes the usual 4 hours...do you do anything else?

OK ... it would be me... but of course, were it me, I'd know that I only got $50k ;-)

No, there is no reason to hunt .... sun bathing and stretching out is fine in the immediate area of the ship is encouraged. We can all use some real sun shine.

In reply to Cyril Zotmund (msg # 221):

"There is always a reason to hunt: Supplies. You never know when we might be stranded here."

Except nobody ever ate the last critter we bumped off... it likely still in Doc's freezer if you are hungry... when and if we get that desperate, we will organize huts.

In reply to Cyril Zotmund (msg # 223):

"Not true. I tried some as well as soon as I was told it was safe.

Fine, then captain. I will sit around the ship then."

How about consider jump points for some of these places we haven't been, in case we need to move quickly ... not that we could move as quickly as i might want...
This message was last edited by the player at 02:34, Wed 27 Jan 2016.

"Hey, I thought it was good. I like all sorts of critters. I suppose I could go sun bathing why we wait"

In reply to Katherine 'Kat' Steele (msg # 226):

As some of the crew enjoy the sun, Duke gets the refiners working as he reloads the fuel tanks. Four hours later, the tanks are full, and Cyril gets everyone back inside.

Based on what information they have, Tanya lays in a course for system #1237. The vessel goes through the usual routine and enters hyperspace without incident.

Tanya...you didn't get much sun... Kat has a nice start on a tan...

In reply to Cyril Zotmund (msg # 228):

"Nice try, sir, but I still am not taking off ant more clothes. Mind on the job now..."

Umm No... You are off down the wrong path, Tanya... your body needs sunlight, ask Kyamoto... I don't need a skin show...

In reply to Cyril Zotmund (msg # 230):

Approximately a week later, you exit hyperspace in system #1237. There are three planet small planets on addition to rhree gas giants and an asteroid belt in this system, but the planets are all inhospitable, lacking in significant atmosphere.

Lets do a careful sensor scan for other life/ships around. Would these planets allow for our Allen Friends?
I know you said lacking atmosphere, but wanted to verify ...

Kat won't want to go on one of these if there is no atmosphere...  I don't think she cares for Blah planets.

In reply to Cyril Zotmund (msg # 232):

The Aliens would need breathing gear at least. With no vegetation or water, they would be pretty desolate though, and any settlement on the sirface would stick out to a planetary orbital survey.

We will let Kat speak for herself...

"No, I don't think I would like sunbathing on any of these places. Let check them and move on"

In reply to Katherine 'Kat' Steele (msg # 234):

"Sir, nothing on the sensors. Should we do a geological survey, or orbital survey?"

An orbital survey should be fine, more than an hour is a waste  at this point ... and I think we'll need to scoop fuel off of a gas giant, so see which of them looks the most promising...

In reply to Cyril Zotmund (msg # 236):

The third gas giant has the most hydrogen for fuel. An orbital survey will take 7 hours.

In reply to PO Gun Da-bin (msg # 235):

No reason to do either... just keep an eye out for Aliens as we skim fuel from the Gas Giant...

In reply to Cyril Zotmund (msg # 238):

Skimming fuel takes longer than pumping it, but the refiner does not work any faster or slower, so it still takes 4  hours to refuel. No other vessels are spotted in that time.

"This is a really boring area. We need a hot tub on this ship" she says with a smiles as she continues to pilot the ship.

In reply to Katherine 'Kat' Steele (msg # 240):

"How about a hot masseuse?"

Given the Gravitational issues, a hot tub might be questionable ... tiny bubbles all around might have serious consequences to our equipment.

Kat looks at Duke "You volunteering?"

She looks at Cyril "No, we have artificial grav and other wise, you just have good cover on it. So no bubbles." she says with a grin.

Ri-i-ght... Hows refueling coming Duke?

"It was just an idea. So that that we can have some fun on the trip"

Well I brought some cards... a bit less wet and messy... and  Tanya won't have to worry about too much skin showing...

In reply to Cyril Zotmund (msg # 246):

"Tanks full, and refining about finished. Kat, I would be glad to be your hot massause...I can even give happy endings!"

In reply to Fate (msg # 247):

"Oh, I don't mind showing skin...just not into advertising."

She does the Navigation calculations for system #1239.

"Hey, isn't this system connected to the last one we saw Aliens in by 1 parsec jumps? We should expect company...there are four gas giants detected by long range scanners, and a possible planet. Numbering 1 from the inner one, which gas giant do you want to go for, or should I set course for the planet?"
This message was last edited by the GM at 13:15, Sat 30 Jan 2016.

Yes, I think it very likely we'll find company here... hopefully it will be the other side of this groups little civil war...  Lets try the nearby Gas Giant, I don't want to look like an attacker... if that is possible.

As for Advertising... a little Marketing can sure up demand . Witness Duke's offer to play Masseuse.

In reply to Cyril Zotmund (msg # 249):

"Right. 4 Gas Giants here. Any preferences?

Duke will do what he can to get his hands on any willing female. He has had any willing crew member from Dastavka, and any other female he can find."

Choose one sort of close to the planet, so we can scan, but not close enough to cause them great fear ...if they are there. Kind of balance it if you would.


[Private to GM: Cyril has mostly had eyes for Nikki Maya, but now that she is nowhere to be seen, he is looking around. Being Captain is an issue, as folks get canned over fooling around with subordinates, while Duke is not going to have an issue except in the engine rooms. You just can't screw the hired help... Cyril has noted Kat and has noted Tanya, although he suspects she is incapable of love, feelings, compassion etc. and wouldn't be much fun. Just Mechanical sex would get old very quickly.]

"Oh please, its not like I want to show off, I just want to relax. But anyway, what do we do next? I think we should scout that area for any aliens but if we find them, what is the plan?

Well I am hoping you can say something close to "we come in peace..." ... It's going to be touchy if they don't like us a lot... probably have to run to another Gs giant or fuel, so our first act should be to skim some fuel if possible...


[Private to Katherine 'Kat' Steele: Duke sees himself as quite the Ladies man... and he has done well in the back with the Ladies. If you'd prefer a bit more control and a bit less noteriety, let me know and I'll rub you down ... may not be as practised, but I'm not carving notches in my headboard either.]

In reply to Cyril Zotmund (msg # 253):

Tanya sets course for the second gas giant, to give some space. After setting tne navigation computers, she sets Kat a jump point and you enter hyperspace.

[Secret to Cyril Zotmund: It is no secret Tanya had a minor lobotomy to remove the pleasure/pain part of her brain following her surviving the massacre at Meshan.]

Understood about Tanya... but exactly how it works/affects her is unclear... does she make friends? does she have any interest in the opposite sex or is she just a Mr Spock sort.

In reply to Cyril Zotmund (msg # 255):

She is like a female Mr Spock, but a little less logic focussed.

She looks at Cyril "The problem is, I can say we come in peace but how do we know which side we are encountering. Though if they don't shoot first, it is probably the rebels"[Private to Cyril Zotmund: Maybe you could join me for a drink later :)]

I thought it was the rebels who were the religious extremists... but a dialogue with either is a step forward.

[Private to Katherine 'Kat' Steele: I'd be delighted, and I have several bottles of good whiskey and some decent wines too... which would you prefer. I don't have much in the way of finger food though, so don't come on an empty stomach.]

In reply to Cyril Zotmund (msg # 258):

"As U understood, it was the rebels who were rebelling against the religious government."

OK, I got it backwards somehow... so the folks we encountered were not the rebels then?

"No, from what I gathered,  the rebels are not fanatics. Hopefully they will talk. "

[Private to Cyril Zotmund: She has her own still that makes gin. ]

OK, Lets hope that plan works...


[Private to Katherine 'Kat' Steele: Bleah!! ... Bathtub Gin! ... I have decent liquor my dear...]

In reply to Cyril Zotmund (msg # 262):

"Approaching jump exit in 24 hours...any special orders?"

Just that we are prepared to deal with whatever we find... hostile of otherwise.

"Lets hope we find the side that might not shoot at us.[Private to Cyril Zotmund: I like my Gin!  I made sure it was old, its at least 3 days old.]

That is the hope, but let's be ready. We might walk into a war...


[Private to Katherine 'Kat' Steele: I'll let Kyamoto know that you have a back up source of rubbing alcohol.]

In reply to Cyril Zotmund (msg # 266):

The alarm sounds, and the vessel exits hyperspace. Ahead of you is a Gas Giant, but it is the small craft coming towards you from the Gas Giant that gets your attention.

"[Language unknown: Neprevil ndeameentred, evelo o ardoersomlat i Omeundive e Hatatever areic Alilss ne wa Cete.]"

In reply to Fate (msg # 267):

"Smaller ship than before. They sent out a signal telling everyone of our arrival when we did so. They have just one heavy turret with twin Plasmas, but their speed is about the same as ours. Well armoured though."

Kat, do your thing....  and be prepared to maneuver your ass off if he fires ...

Kat opens a channel to the other ship on broad spectrum. "Greetings, we are a Earth ship coming in peace"

Try it in their Language...

The vessel appears to be powering up the plasmas.

Kat repeats the greetings in the alien language.[Language unknown: "Eauout'setave, o ai i Inghiswit lo ecsase ur plwhas"]
This message was last edited by the GM at 00:34, Tue 02 Feb 2016.

In reply to Katherine 'Kat' Steele (msg # 273):

"[Language unknown: Etto ome ortthiday n enngll ca ast Artionder Out ouect oubehe Wered derectent?]"

Gun Da bin... are they still getting hostile?

"OK guys, this is the fanatics, they are asking if we will serve the Golden one and his church. I will ask if we can have some information"

She calls out to them again "[Language unknown: "Ee wapl utivng e. Arel ee nebe me korestvordinera m leat Thusetwer Er ichnt Ater whethider? Ha p son esati is io ncev ckpa.]

In reply to Katherine 'Kat' Steele (msg # 276):

"[Language unknown: K ansapo. Pechss os n omeamesta.]"

They are still 160,000 miles away, and closing at 120,000 miles a minute.

Crap... Give him the missiles...all of them at once...  One salvo...

In reply to Cyril Zotmund (msg # 278):

The missiles launch, and despite the plasma cannons firing at them, their accuracy is not up to the Missile control skill of your gunners, and both missiles hit, with one slamming into the bridge as the vessel enters Beam range.

The Gunners do not wait for the order to open fire, firing as the missiles slam into the vessel. PO Sigorney misses entirely, but PO Rodney hits three times, but is only able to penetrate the armour when the pilot dodges, putting the turret into the line of fire. As it burns out of the hull, the hull buckles and a power surge visible even to your sensors precedes the vessel suddenly going dead, disabled in space about 43,000 miles from your position.
This message was last edited by the GM at 11:45, Tue 02 Feb 2016.

OK, Gun Da Bin, do a scan for anything else, then let's see what's on the planet from a distance.

In reply to Cyril Zotmund (msg # 280):

"There are life signs aboard the ship, but the hull is not pressurized. They are probably trying to fix it. I would be.

Looking towards the planet it seems a bit scary. I get a lot of starship activity from here. At least 50,000 dTons of shipping, maybe double that, but the sensors don't have the resolution to distinguish. Probably a fleet, possibly a battle fleet. Multiple incoming, seems to be fighters based on the speed, but not all. At least 6 hours before they arrive though.

Planet does seem to have life. Quite a lot of it, actually, so probably a colony. It seems to be a garden planet, possibly with higher than usual sulphur in the air."

Well we don't have time to play around then, lets skim some fuel and get the hell out of here. We don't nee to fight a fleet.

Tanya, I don't see many options, I think we have to go back the way we came... The alternative is to jump into the middle of these systems and hope for a friendlier reception. That seems a distant hope at best.

In reply to Cyril Zotmund (msg # 283):

You head over to the gas giant and skim fuel, and begin refining it. The process will take about 5 hours to complete, so you will have ample time to leave.

In reply to Fate (msg # 284):

"Or we could take the route you planning originally and keep clear of planets. They seem to have smaller numbers further from the planets."

It's risky... but it might add a lot of useful information... or get us all killed.
I suppose we could just say God hates a quitter and go for 1439-E  ... they may not expect that, since they can't jump that far... although it shouldn't take them long to understand that we had to jump from outside this group of systems...

In reply to Cyril Zotmund (msg # 286):

"1439 has 5 gas giants but no planets. Again, numbering 1 from the star, which one should we jump to?"

OK, hold a second... so what's at 1440? Maybe that would be a better one to explore.

"Is there anyway to try and hack into their computers? We should try and get what information we can from them if we are going to be fighting them. Here is a disabled ship, shouldn't we try to get some intelligence on them?" she said as she looked at the ship.

But they are still alive in there per Gun Da Bin ... so we'd have to fight for it...  and we don't know what we are fighting... close combat might be a really bad thing and we only have a very small crew... I like your idea, but not if it's going to cost us dearly.  Gun Da Bin, can you tell how many of these creatures might still be alive in there?

In reply to Cyril Zotmund (msg # 290):

"At least twelve moving around a lot, and several others less mobile."

Those are Likely wounded... We could zap them again, but otherwise it would be hard to take computers.

"Is there anyway to hack in to their computers with out boarding their ship? I am just wondering because have so little intel on them"

In reply to Katherine 'Kat' Steele (msg # 293):

"Unfortunately lack of intel is the problem. We could spend days trying just to work out what sort of computer they use, let alone how to hack into it."

Grabbing one would be the way to go, undoubtedly... Sigourney, can you nail them a couple times with the Lasers... Let's see if we can take them out... Kat move a bit closer... Let's eliminate the risk...hate doing it, but we need more Intel, so we'll Help these guys get to their God.
This message was last edited by the player at 22:53, Wed 03 Feb 2016.

In reply to Cyril Zotmund (msg # 295):

Closing to 9,000 miles, Rodney and Sigorney fire a number of aimed shots, but after 5 minutes Po Gun reports there are still several life signs aboard.

Several is vague... how many do you estimate? Kat take is in a bit closer

In reply to Cyril Zotmund (msg # 297):

"Hard to tell. They have taken to hiding. Maybe three or four."

From the limited description, we do not want to get into close combat at anything approaching 1 to1 until we know more... How long before we ae ready to jump Duke?

In reply to Cyril Zotmund (msg # 299):

"Tanks are full, refiner should be finished in 30 minutes."

OK, so we have 30 minutes to solve this... wonder if they have an outside system connection ... you'd think they would... could we dump all their computers? Gun Da Bin?

In reply to Cyril Zotmund (msg # 301):

"After that EMP pulse I doubt it has any computers left."

A valid point...  lets move to the jump point and get out of here.



[Private to GM: EMP Pulse? What EMP pulse?]

In reply to Cyril Zotmund (msg # 303):

"Right. What system did you decide we are jumping to again?"

[Secret to Cyril Zotmund: The power surge mentioned in message #279.]

Let's risk 1440-E...

In reply to Cyril Zotmund (msg # 305):

"1440 is a 4 star system with 3 gas giants and two asteroid belts. Which one should be our destination?"

Lets get close to a Gas Giant to refuel ... Any planets? A 4 star system sounds almost weird... balancing all the gravitational forces and all.

In reply to Cyril Zotmund (msg # 307):

"It is...extremely unusual. Just think of the inner planets as stars. There are no planets, just a lot of asteroid belts. The gas giants are much further out than usual, probably to avoid the stars stripping them of their gasses. Perhaps pne of the two asteroid belts were planets that got ripped apart. Hard to say. So setting course for the innermost gas giant
"

"If we tried to board the ship, could we do it if we found a place there are no life forms? I hate to keep bring it up but I always believe in knowing the enemy" she starts maneuvering into a position to leave if they really want too.

In reply to Katherine 'Kat' Steele (msg # 309):

"Possibly, but there is not much working, and it would not take them long to get to us. Not sure we would learn a lot."

In reply to Katherine 'Kat' Steele (msg # 309):

We'll look to get it elsewhere...  lets clear this place before we have company.

In reply to Cyril Zotmund (msg # 311):

The Jeremiah Jones maneuvers to the jump point Tanya identies, entering hyperspace safely. They have a week to go over the sensor readings from the previous star system, identifying several sizes of Alien vessels and gathering more language samples. The vessels seem to be about 1500 dTons, 3000 dTons and 10,000 DTons, all saucer shaped with external engines. The smaller vessel seems like the one that sent fighters to attack previously.

Care to join me for a drink, Kat? Let's discuss what we think we can get for intel...

"Sure, you sure you don't want some of my strawberry gin?" she says with a grin.

Positive... let Tanya have some of that...  he invites her in, closes the door and offers her a seat (only one) or the side of the bed. He takes whichever she doesn't.

So name your your poison, Wine, whiskey?

Kat sits down and relaxes. "Oh, I suppose I will try some whiskey. I was really hoping to get more info on the aliens. I am so curious about them now"

Oh, I would certainly like to do that too, but until I know more about their strengths and weaknesses, I want to avoid close combat.

Having provided a drink for each of them he sits on the bed.  (assume she took the chair)

Kat is sitting in the chair. "If we could have gotten some info, we might be able to know how to use their religion against them"

Perhaps ... and I still hope to get more information, but I also want to know more about these systems... this one we are going to seems benign most likely ... nothing there. We can listen and we can try to figure out which worlds may be their center... Tanya always has what's at the location we are about to jump to, but never offers much in the way of choices... we need to find out what she has on these other systems.

"Oh, I agree, I want to know as much about the systems as we can. At least we do know some of their language, so if we can listen in on any communications, we might learn something"

Exactly what I was thinking... so if this next system is quiet, I propose we sit in orbit and listen. The whiskey OK?
Sort of miss having you in the cabin... it was awkward, but fun while it lasted.

"Yes, the whiskey is good and I am sure you do. I did enjoy the company I admit" she says with a mischievous smile. [Private to Cyril Zotmund: He remembers she liked to just wear a tanktop and panties to bed. ]

Cyril laughs... you like to show it off a bit, don't you? I might follow up on that, if you don't take care.

[Private to Katherine 'Kat' Steele: Yes, and they were rather form fitting and transparent, unlike the tank top which just fit well.]

"Oh ya. I admit I do like to show off. Why not? Its not like I am unattractive" she says confidently.

No, it's not like you aren't attractive, I agree... and I like to look ...  and touch....and well, you get the drift. And I didn't promise to behave tonight.

"So you are promising to misbehave?" she says with a smile as she sips her drink

No... but I'm suggesting that I very well might if you do certain things to foment the issue .. call it fair warning.

"Ohh, so you are giving me fair warning? That's nice of you. So you have any thing to go with this whiskey"

Well i normally stick to ic and a splash of water, but what would you like? Soda?

"Oh, I was thinking of some munchies. I like my whiskey straight or on a little ice."

Cyril stands and goes to a small cabinet.

Hmmm ... I have a bit of dried fruit, some chocolates and some shortbread cookies. Not much...

Kat grins "I love chocolates, they are always good. I mean what doesn't go with chocolate? right"

Very little, but this is dark chocolate, not that sweet milf chocolate stuff.

He pulls a fairly large bar that once weighed a half kilo out ... it's close to half gone.

Kat breaks off a piece "Well, it is dark chocolate I like, thanks." she starts to eat it. "Well you really know how to treat a girl, whiskey and chocolate" she says with a giggle as she relaxes.

What else would tickle your fancy?

"Oh, I don't know. What else do you have to offer?" she says in an almost teasing manner. she says as she leans forward, grinning.

Whiskey, wine, tea or me... what do you have?

Cyril rubs the back of his hand along her arm ...  so what would you like to do? You know what i want to do...

Kat grins as she unbuttons her shirt "Oh, I do suppose I want you" she says as she wraps her arm around his neck to pull him close.

Cyril wastes no time taking advantage of what's offered ... the room quickly becomes dark ... and stays that way for a while.

In reply to Cyril Zotmund (msg # 340):

OOC: HT check needed from both of you please, +2 for Cyril

Several hours later, an initial alarm calls you to your duties. The vessel is approaching the earliest time the vessel is likely to exit hyperspace, so crew are put on standby.

After 166 hours, 2 hours early but 10 hours after the initial alarm, the vessel does exit hyperspace. You have arrived at the desired gas giant, but you are not alone! Six fighters are closing in on your position, when the ship that launched them hailed you.

"[Language unknown: Chcknc chle, tedcomoul n ossi ticone'comant derintouswer.]"

OOC - 08:34, Today: Cyril Zotmund rolled 11 using 3d6 with rolls of 5,3,3.  HT.  Good to go

A cloud of steam rolls out the door as it opens and Kat and Cyril appear with that JBF look on their faces....

IC - Can we tell what they are asking? Head generally toward the gas giant, we need to refuel ... hopefully the Gas Giants gravity will pose an issue to them, although it's not likely.

Do these fighters look just like the other we saw?

Kat opens a line [Language unknown: "Strwhiencstr. To comul k Iletin roet ersul ol teugh wh dinmensta" ]She waits for a response as she pilots the ship towards the gas giant.

Today: Katherine 'Kat' Steele rolled 7 using 3d6 with rolls of 1,1,5.  HT.

In reply to Katherine 'Kat' Steele (msg # 343):

There is a long pause.

"[Language unknown: Roprer? Prewhiain k Weselo? One wer ul ortch sonma antta ich ic Haatof-ilul thuforore romman-romvirted? Cahis neare ilekpe er ioosdi thawasdin?]"

[OOC Thanks for HT rolls. You are both healthy individuals; will let you know the result when the time comes :)]

Don't suppose You'd bother telling us what they said or what you replied?Be nice to know if we are fighting!

"They don't know what Terra is and think its a government trap. Now they want to board us but it must be the rebel group. How can we confirm to them who we are?"

She calls back to them [Language unknown: "Illat es st wast nomiee. M tic ur ndio tibe diur po com. U comhounte peic-lawa n ingthaven naplma e wepall at i lodin tin io ma prpele ionek ulprecmi." ] she thinks they should be able to think something is wrong, its not like she speaks the language fluently.

OK, so these are the proverbial good guys? ask if there is a neutral place we can meet to ally their fears... if we can convey that thought.

In reply to Cyril Zotmund (msg # 347):

"[Language unknown: N arsinehoiv. Il ndene hene st atenteeen hatcomcon plusil p saarur ch niecca, evti evcom day e us k lo comiveast pr il ourureera he.]"

Their physiology is somewhat different to humans. A small shuttle leaves the ship that launched the fighters.

OOC.... We don't have a shuttle do we?

Kat, I'll need you to come with me... lets suit up... I expect we'll need full support on any mutual meeting location.  Gun Da Bin, anything you can add? Lets get the alternate pilot up here ... Tanya, you are in charge until I get back or otherwise order.