One of the larger moons on 1438 has a dense atmosphere with very high CO2 content. The planet appears to have been largely razed and fires are still burning. Thick clouds of smoke cover the planet, and there appears evidence some nukes may even have been used. Scans indicate little life is left...

A closer scan does indeed indicate the presence of a single bug ship. Rather than a planet wide war, there seems to have been a process of extermination. No advanced non-bug technology is identified by your scans, but the scans are reduced in effectiveness by the smoke.

Some continents are 'burnt earth', others are still burning. The clouds do filter the lasers and plasma's reducing their range.

A large swarm of bugs rose above the clouds to greet you, but many were destroyed before they got near. Only a few manage to dive back to the cover of the clouds, and fewer yet manage to disappear with out being traced at high speed to the surface. when you analyse the sensors about 10 seem to make it back to some sort of cover.

A survey ship is dispatched with two fighter, one flown bu Brutus, as escorts. There is some ground fire targeting the surveyor from several directions. It is ineffective while above a lot of smoke though, as the smoke filters it out. They would like to survey from lower down to get better readings, but await direction.

24 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300

No lower, Unless you want to be surveying from bug feeler distance.

Gloria wants to reduce the bug menace to as closeto zero a possible and look for surviving inhabitants.
This message was last edited by the player at 22:10, Sat 01 July 2023.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 2):

Ok, so you are pretty much commercial airlines height at the moment, around 30,000 ft if you get no closer as directed.

24 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300

That's fine ... hings are a wee bit different than now I will assume and we should be able to use multi spectral scans to find survivors and Bugs. May take a bit more work, but we can do it.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 4):

of course. There will just be bigger penalties than there would be from lower down. At that range, it would be nearly impossible to determine the difference between a bug and some other unknown alien life form, at least partially because you have no real idea what the locals look like.

24 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300

Yeah, they could even be good bugs... but I'll bet they are huddled in groups while the bad bugs are spread out more.

The pair of fighters escort the survey ship, one flying ahead and below and the other behind and above.
Vertical separation is around 1000'.

"Square spiral square search pattern out to 2,000 feet," promts Brutus. "Then we repeat two thousand feet lower."

======
OOC: Can he see anything more suspicious being that little bit closer?

Stay up, we can't replace the Surveyor easily or any of our people.


I assume we can get a general lay of the land ... water? Mountains, flat lands?

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 8):

Yeah, even from 28,000 ft, you can see the general lay of the land. You would see buildings too if there were any, if it were not for the smoke. But the clouds of smoke bloke a lot from that height. Smoke clouds start to reduce around 10,000-15,000 ft.

Between the clouds of smoke you get glimpses of low lying foothills, plains and river beds beneath.

24 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300

Clouds mean nothing much to radar, Multispectral viewers can also see in wavelengths less affected by the smoke... and buildings should likely remain, as they did even near ground zero in Hiroshima. Rivers? Lakes? oceans? Major Roads?

I assume we can estimate the relative size of the weapons used by the damage size and patterns.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 10):

There are scanners less effected by smoke, that is true, but they are still effected, and there is a lot of distance with smoke between you and the ground.

You are right about buildings remaining, as would signs of infrastructure, such as roads. But there is no sign of either.

It does not look like nukes were used. Rather, low level fires started systematically possibly by weapons such as flamers.

24 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300

OK, so Flamers and a world wide fire, Grand.

Still looking from up here, as we don't need damage from some dumb bug. And the mothership isn't one we want to go scooting aroundin the atmosphere in. Let's deploy the  auto sensor survey package on a lower recon run.  It should be very hard to target with it's combination of speed and the low visibility. Bug locations will be marked and dealt with, but we are looking for survivors from this planet mostly.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 12):

The stats on the auto-sensor package would suggest otherwise. It is a survey package, not a military scout, and the scientists who work it ask if you are sure you want to do that. (Details are on Players Vessels page).

If you are looking for bugs, however, looking for the flamers might be more effective...they are clearly being used to start the fires, and with out them, you might expect the fires to start burning themselves out.

24 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300

"Have we scanned enough of the fires to be able to work out a vector on the source, or sources of fire initiation or propagation?" asks Brutus, stretching.

In reply to Fate (msg # 13):

OK, If it has a speedof 1,000 + I am assuing it is moderately quick... many hundreds of miles per hour.
It s also not large and should be a fleeting target at best...  so what am I missing?


We can indeed look for where fires are starting and have a tank go an attack them, although the laser weapons are likely to cause fires as well.

You still have not mentioned water, amounts or locations. Water can be useful for dowsing fires, especially as rain, which might be har to conjure up, but if we can scoop and dump it, we might be aable to direct fires and have them burninto burned out areas.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 15):

Atmospheric resistance. Sensors are primarily external to the hull, so high speed in atmosphere will not do them any good.

But looking for fire sources would work well...they seem to be spread out, so likely the bug are as well.

The planet is only covered by 40% water, so it is pretty dry, but yes, firefighting could likely help. Once the source is deal with.


24 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300

Brutus prods the scientists, "How's it going with getting those vectors worked out? "

In reply to Brutus Cartwright (msg # 17):

"Takes time, sir. There is a lot of smoke to filter through. But we can identify a few sources of the fire at least. Sending them across now."

They send through several co-ordinates.

24 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300

Brtutus checks the coordinates. Do the seem to form any sort of advancing line?

In reply to Brutus Cartwright (msg # 19):

Very roughly, yes. But far from a sophisticated pattern.

24 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300

"Want to engage this line from behind and at the nearest end, skipper. Permission?" asks Brutus.

Granted, but stay alert. I'll dispatch the other tank as well.

"Aye aye, skipper," replies Brutus with an implied salute.
His craft escorts the science ship to safetly and then heads off on a long arc to approach the end of the 'fire initiation' line low and from the rear.

In reply to Brutus Cartwright (msg # 23):

You approach, and are met with heavy laser fire. But the Dinosaur lasers they carry are no match for the heavy armour of the Tanks, and the weapons you have make short work of the 5 firebugs you see near the end.

24 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300

Circle back and another appraoch along the  'line' to the next node of bugs.

In reply to Brutus Cartwright (msg # 25):

The grav vehicles can hover, so if you prefer, you do not need to circle around. You approach the next lot of bugs about a mile away, and fire at most of them. They seem to start spreading out before you got there though...your sensors detect a comms signal from them.

24 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300

Do we know enough about their language yet to understand the message?
If not, we can record it and note their actions.

In reply to Brutus Cartwright (msg # 27):

You know enough to get the gist of what is being said, if not the exact wording with some analysis. it is basically a warning of hostile aircraft. Though short in range, is seems to be repeated along the front.

24 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300

"Can we get a fix on those comms signals? Current locations would be useful!" pushes Brutus. "Or at least the number of repeats for a rough bug head count."

In reply to Brutus Cartwright (msg # 29):

Sensors take a few minutes as the signals are sent out.

"Counted 68 signals, Sir. Transmitting locations to you now."

24 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300

"Good work!" he commends. With those input to the tactical computer brutus get some straffing runs set up.

In reply to Brutus Cartwright (msg # 31):

The first couple are pretty straight-forward, though the bugs are obviously trying to run for cover. But the cover is on fire, so their options are limited. You get about 3-6 at each radio signal site for the first three sites, though the third site you already have to hunt a bit.

The other tank drops down to assist with a few sites as well.

24 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300

We go again and then pull back.

Between you you estimate you have taken out maybe 40-50 bugs before they are getting very hard to find.

24 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300

Reporting back to Gloria Brutus finishes with, "Don't think we're going to catch more immeditaly. Orders, skipper?"

I'd like to get a better look around, is it safe to bring the survey ship down in closer now, with the tanks flanking it?

"Yes. Best if one tank can precedes it, a couple of thousand feet lower."

In reply to Brutus Cartwright (msg # 37):

The tank does draw some fire, which is quickly put down.

What is the survey ship looking for?

24 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300

Life other than bugs ... signs of previous life and some clue as to how developed it was.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 39):

There is little evidence of advanced life. What there is seems to be hunters and gatherers, though they have been decimated. Survivors seem few and isolated. Unless you move in to risk dinosaur laser fire that you have seen bounce harmlessly off the tanks, more information might be hard to get.

They have clearly stopped taking the bait offered by tanks, however, and only fire on them now when they are fired upon, meaning that a hidden sniper could still pose a threat to the less heavily defended craft. If they can tell the difference...all are 6 dTon flattened spheres that use the same docks, so they are similar in shape and size.

24 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300

"Skipper, I could land and go walkabout, try and draw a few more bugs out. Permission?"

Denied, They aren't bad shots ...  but if we can pick up a couple of hunter gatherer types, we might be able to resettle this place and learn more about it. With the tanks close the survey ship can stay a bit higher and between them while it scans.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 42):

You note that the bugs do seem to be hunting the locals. Through the scanners, it is hard to differentiate them from this range, though.

24 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300

"We could try it the other way, skipper. Dump me in front of the direction that some of the bugs are heading. If they're driving locals in front of them, then maybe we can make caontact in a favourable way with the local. And kill some bugs," suggests Brutus on a private channel.

That might work and convince them we are on their side. Butyou'll need a team of  five or six and overhead back up.

"Are aye, skipper!" says Brutus trying not to let his smile sound in his voice. Switching to a wider band(?) comms channel he updates the fliers and the 'infantry' aacordingly and waits fro the techies to recommend drop points ahead of the advancing bugs (and hopefully retreating locals.

He adds, "If there are chpoices of terrain, then chest height grasses would be my preference." The whole crew are aware on his fondness for (and skill with) pop-up attacks.

In reply to Brutus Cartwright (msg # 46):

It takes a few minutes to prepare an away team and launch them (Brutus is in a tank). In that time you notice the bugs are not in a hurry. Their methodical approach involves wiping out everything, so the locals they figure will not be able to run forever.

The APC approaches, and together you move in, the tank taking and returning the heavy fire that deals with the local bugs effectively.

Landing in front of the locals, you note they are very much humanoid, and seeing your men, they hesitate, and watch you cautiously, looking at how you respond.

24 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300

Putting his weapon away brutus says, "We are here to help you." He hold his open hands out away from his body. The comm channel is open for the computers and tachs to work on the local language.

He points slowly and carefully at himself and says, "Brutus."

In reply to Brutus Cartwright (msg # 48):

The humanoids are clearly scared, but come closer. They look like Neanderthals form ancient earth, and act similar as well. The have primitive spears leveled, and from the range of 300 yds, you doubt they could hit you. Maybe.

24 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300

Brutus relays this information upwards and asks, "Orders, skipper? Continued bug hunt? Or..?"

Well, we are in the make contact stage, so complete that while Bug Protecting for the moment

"So is that time to dial up someone with better people skills than me, skipper?"

Send the APC back up, I'll send the skilled folk and some trinkets and a steel knife or two.

"Aye, aye, Skipper," replies Brutus who then makes the appropriate happen. Hus immediate team remain on bug watch.

It's a fairly quick turn around, the two tanks add to the defence.

Brutus lets the experts do their thing but keeps watch to ensure their safety.

In reply to Brutus Cartwright (msg # 54):

Brutus remains with a security team of 5 others as the APC returns. A shot fired at them from about 800 yds indicates the presence of the bugs he is dealing with, and as Brutus men respond by preparing to fight, the locals start running in fear.

The two tanks arrive and quickly deal with the troublesome bugs...

24 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300

Brutus runs with the natives and calls it in.

In reply to Brutus Cartwright (msg # 58):

They stop when the tanks start unloading, and the rounds stop coming. The language, and indeed the he people, are quite primitive.

Then their curiosity starts to kick in, and the move back towards where the rest of your team took a stand.

24 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300

"The locals are coming back. Looks like we have engagement," Brutus broadcasts. He goes back to guarding as the experts restart their contact process.
This message was last edited by the player at 09:25, Fri 21 July 2023.

In reply to Brutus Cartwright (msg # 60):

The modular small craft comes down as the natives begin back to where the shots from the tanks landed. Seeing the dead bugs, they poke them with their spears, driving them through when the can. The lifeless bugs do not respond, as the natives begin to look closely at the dead bodies.

24 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300

Brutus keep watch but steps back to let the experts do thier thing.

In reply to Brutus Cartwright (msg # 62):

The linguists soon establish rudimentary communication with the native, but the concepts that can be communicated are very basic.

The tanks find another group of bugs about 500 yds away, and send them scattering too, killing another 5.

24 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300

The ship and it's small craft keep scanning for more bugs.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 64):

There are others, but it is hard to pick them from orbit. However, the survey craft is directing the tanks much more effectively as they move up the line. The bugs have gone to ground now, and it takes much more looking to locate them.

24 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300

"Can't readily find any more, skipper. Orders?" asks Brutus.

======
OOC: Did we deal with this bunch's mothership already
This message was last updated by the GM at 11:02, Sat 05 Aug 2023.

Learn what you can from the locals…

The locals are not easy to understand at this point. I will take some time to learn from them, but they do seem to be trying to find the rest of their tribe.

24 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300
This message was last edited by the GM at 03:43, Thu 10 Aug 2023.

See if the sensor ship can help with that.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 69):

The Sensor ship can help a little, but the more helpful it is, the more likely it is to get shot at. After the attacks so far, the bugs have worked out that the tanks are not susceptible to the dinosaur lasers they are using. Some shots have been fired at the sensor ship, but it has not be damaged yet.

In broad game mechanics terms, you decide the risk (ie you decide the target number between 6 and 15). Then roll 3d twice, once for their attack and once for your sensors.

If their attack rolls under, take D6 damage to the sensor ship, and on a critical hit a system goes down. (On a d6, 1= propulsion, falls and crashes, 2=Power supply, lands on emergency power, 3=Control, continues on course and needs to be collected, 4/5=Sensors, 6=extra D6 damage). Either way, if they attack, you get to kill D6 bugs who launched the attack with the tanks.

If Your Sensor rolls succeed, you detect 3D6 bugs and can kill them with the tanks, in addition to any killed who attacked you.

If Brutus jumps into a tank, we can actually role play it some more...

24 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300

The Dinosaur rifles likely have a range of a few thousand meters at best.
I am not even sure how they can sense the Sensor ship wich should be quite a bit higher than a few thousand meters AND is a very small moving target up in the smoke as well.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 71):

Yeah, if the sensor ship is staying that far away in all the same smoke, then detecting bugs hidden in undergrowth is not going to happen either. I assumed that you were getting to within 5000 ft. Your craft are significantly bigger than a person, and have much less cover than them as well. Sensors can overcome that to a degree, but once they start taking active measures to hide themselves, such as caves, cover and camouflage the advantages of your sensors are largely negated. As mentioned, the smoke also works two ways...you have the technological advantage over the bugs, but they are still very competent and cunning.

24 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300

In reply to Fate (msg # 70):

Without fanfare or fuss, just the appropriate orderly arrangements, Brutus switches to a tank.

In reply to Fate (msg # 72):

Man the tech is crappy in this game.
We can read license plates from space and plot 50-75 mm land mines within inches from 5000 feet up.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 74):

However, to find a man hiding in smokey undergrowth is all but impossible, or we would use helicopters to find people lost in the bush much better than we do, even without smoke. People that want to be found are often not seen, let alone those hiding.

24 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300

Again, depends on the folks using it... Police and fire can't afford to buy the high end stuff... on occasion the Miliary steps in and a sugestion is made for where they should search. The Military is always close hold about how much it can see how well.
But if they can make out a 2-3 inch diameter plastic land mine from less than a mile up, they can see a missing person from a greater distance... and that is 30 year old technology ;-)
Nothing is perfect ... you can buy a night sight for your rifle today (here anyway) that uses thermal imaging. Why I am not sure, as hunting after dark is prohibited, but they advertise them.
Of course most of those who hunt illegally at night can't afford that stuff, so they just use a spot light that causes the deer to freeze, they shoot it, douse the light, grab the deer and drive off to dress it out and feed the family.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 76):

Yeah, but note that the military in Afghanistan were not able to hunt down the Taliban at night with impunity either, because for them to be close enough, they are also close enough to be shot at. Such focused equipment usually has a very narrow field of view, making a search take forever.

Technology is a constant battle, and we are about TL9 now, attacking guys at TL8. So like modern military equipment shooting at WWII soldiers in less than ideal conditions. Yes, you have an advantage, but they are not using spears either. Hence I evaluate the change in tech based on the changes we have seen.

Of course, there is the Role Play aspect as well. It is no fun if you can just roll in the tanks, every baddys is dead, and move on to next planet. Not only unrealistic, (just ask the Spanish who attacked the Aztecs, where the TL late 4 was matched against TL2 at most) or even the English in the Boer War (circa 1890-1900), matching TL5 gatling guns against TL2 tribesmen with spears. Arrogant reliance on Tech has cost thousands of lives in history, and this is a much closer match in tech than that.

But hunting at night is banned? We have some of the strictest gun control laws in the world, but we can hunt imported vermin such as foxes and rabbits at night. Spotlighting is a skill, and it is easy to get nothing, so that makes it a challenge and therefore fun. But getting the gun here is a nightmare...

24 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300

It is banned almost completely... because you can't see where the bullet may end up.
Here any idiot can get a gun... and many have.

You make me feel like we need to fix bayonets and charge through the brambles and the bushes and the holes where rabbits couldn't go, just to get rid of them.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 78):

Yeah, that is one way. Though they have done you a favour by burning a lot of undergrowth, restricting the locations they could be hiding.

Though there is a fairly big gap between staying at 10,000 ft and fixing bayonets...

24 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300

If not already done we scan for bug communications.

In reply to Brutus Cartwright (msg # 80):

You have been scanning for that. After the initial flurry of warnings that enabled placement of many and attack of a few before they dispersed, the comms have gone silent.

24 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300

"Scan for warm bipeds: let's find more of the locals," suggests Brutus.

Sounds good, we'll watch around you for any movement.  She orders the ship down to the minimum orbit level and we'll use power to stay in orbit. Any bug movement will be dealt with from above.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 83):

Moving in does improve the scanning results, and you can detect the locals much easier. What altitude do you drop to?

24 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300

Since I (PC) don't have the worlds diameter or gravitational pull numbers, you can't have a specific altitude.
Besides, I couldn't calculate it if you gave them to me... maybe Brutus could, as he is good with numbers...  for Earth it  is around 93 miles IIRC.

The concept is that the rate of fall always has us staying the same distance above the planet and we use power as needed to offset the likely increased drag at this altitude.

Call it 10% of fuel consumption for max sublight speed.

In reply to Brutus Cartwright (msg # 86):

Sounds like way too much maths. So lets say around 18,000 yds, or 54,000 ft? I thought you were already lower than that?

24 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300

Not in a giant ball that is not aerodynamic at all... and it certainly will not require max power, likely 10% or so to keep falling around (circling in orbit) the planet.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 88):

The planet is smaller than earth (5000 mile dia), with about half the gravity of earth (0.5 g), so staying aloft is relatively easy. Earlier I had you at 10,000 yards, or 5 miles, up. So you have gone up to 9 miles up? You would detect less from that height, but OK. That will reduce the effectiveness of your scanners.

24 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300

OOC: Suggestion - so we don't end up in the difficult spiral of having to nail down lots of physical details every time we operatre in a new system (whether on a planet, moon or asteroid), let the players assume things are broadly earth-normal until the GM says othrwise (and he assumes responsibility for that).
So in this case, player would say "We reduce our orbit to 75% of previous." (Yes, I know orbits don't have to be circular, but we'd assume that the nearest appraoch is over the area we want to look at.)
I think something like the above could help reduce back and forth which some folks can find tiresome.
Just my thoughts.

In reply to Fate (msg # 89):

So just half earth's gravity should give us something like 47 miles altitude. Any lower and we would have to fly in the atmosphere, which would use a lot of fuel/power.
But while we are here we can use the fuel skimmers to pick up water for us to make into fuel.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 91):

You would use power of the main thrusters, but not fuel. Your Fusion reactors last 500 years, and the water used is negligible. The fuel is only used for the hyperdrive system...

24 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300

Good, but we do need to refule the hyperdrive systems.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 93):

Sure. In your own time. No pressing rush, and no impact on current capability.

24 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300

But using the drones seemed something to distract the bugs, who can't do much about things way out in the oceans, but they can worry about what those additional ships are doing.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 95):

Yeah, if then shoot at it, they will. But out to sea, it is hard for them to shoot at you. That is a fair assessment based on what you have seen.

24 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300

And if they do shoot, it will make them easier to locate.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 97):

Also true. So plan is to focus on helping the locals and refuel then?

24 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300

If there's no way we can find bugs nor their ship(s) then those seem to be the only option short of bug-hunting afoot and that coould take tens of years.

Reminder...



I do not remember you ever saying you were hunting the ship, despite this.

======
OOC: TY! Thought that was the primary purpose of the scans that then defaulted to bugs in the absesne of the former, but ok, can we do so now?

Since we Had already "Found" the ship, we would have surveyed it closely. Since we are actively killing all bugs, we would have dispatched any there for sure.
You have to give us some credit, we cannot specify everything.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 102):

Yeah, OK. There are a large number of bugs there, but you seemed distracted defending the locals, which is also a good idea. Lets role play that one though. I thought you may have missed it...

How would the approach go?

24 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300

======
OOC: I recall a ship that was empty and under water? No power. Was that in another system?

In reply to Brutus Cartwright (msg # 104):

That was another system. This one is parked on a rocky hill, high and dry. Only the hills and rocks provide cover. Sensors suggest the weapons are powered up, but if is blocked from your previous actions by the planets curvature.

24 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300

"The locals we've found seem to be calm again. Safe for now. Let's see if we can locate the ship the bugs arrived on," suggests Brutus.

Taking orbit again a scan around the planet for energy souces shows something.. a  bug ship. "Permission to engage, skipper?"

We know where it is ( location sent) and a recent scan shows the bugs are now outside and doing things... expect trouble.
We will try and launch a bunch of missiles as you come cloae, to give them something to shoot at, besides you.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 107):

Which small craft are engaging?

24 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300

"Suggest we hold back with the more vulnerable research vessel, skipper," comments Brutus on their priovate channel. "Your call though.."

Just the tanks for the moment.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 110):

So just 2 tanks, Brutus in one. No APCs?

24 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300

Once we hav the bug's fire under some control, the APCs can move in.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 112):

Cool, Brutus in tank or switch to APC with troops in that case?

24 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300

Switch to APC.

In reply to Brutus Cartwright (msg # 114):

The two tanks move in as the craft powers weapons. You take an approach with minimal turrets, based on what you have seen of these craft...roll three dodges vs 12 for the tanks.

The tanks both fire the plasma cannons, to devastating effect on the enemy ship.

24 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300

OOC: Gloria can roll..

Gloria is not a great small craft pilot! Also, she isn't there.

======
OOC: Brutus isn't in a tank either.
Just though you might like to roll the dice.
17:53, Today: Brutus Cartwright rolled 9 using 3d6 with rolls of 2,4,3.  Tank Dodge 12
17:53, Today: Brutus Cartwright rolled 12 using 3d6 with rolls of 3,4,5.  Tank Dodge 12
17:53, Today: Brutus Cartwright rolled 15 using 3d6 with rolls of 6,4,5.  Tank Dodge 12

In reply to Brutus Cartwright (msg # 118):

Impressive, three rolls of exactly what was needed!

Despite the hostile rounds missing by margins to small to be comfortably measured, the tank pilots keep them intact while their own rounds strike the motionless craft with enough precision to take out the hostile turrets. Noting the main powerplant and maneuver drives coming online, the tanks continue the barrage. The sensors bear testimony to the effectiveness as the craft remains where you saw it. The secondary weapons on the tanks and APC are soon put to great effect as the crew start to abandon what the tanks are currently in the process of demolishing.

Out of the background behind the APC, sensors ping as one of the small flying craft emerge, firing on the tanks that are causing the damage...roll one more dodge as before, and an Attack from the APC, which is currently the closest craft to it.

24 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300

OOC: 22:32, Today: Brutus Cartwright rolled 13 using 3d6 with rolls of 4,5,4.  APC Dodge 12
22:34, Today: Brutus Cartwright rolled 10 using 3d6 with rolls of 4,2,4.  APC attack, skill unknown
This message was last edited by the player at 21:35, Thu 07 Sept 2023.

In reply to Brutus Cartwright (msg # 120):

The Gatling laser uses the Gunner(Beams) skill, 15 for Brutus.

Despite the glob of gunk that sticks to the hull, you destroy the bug with a few hits and it crashes down.

OOC: I notice you have Plasma drones with thinner armour, and Beam weapon tanks with thicher armour. Which are you using here?

24 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300

Thicker armour, please

In reply to Brutus Cartwright (msg # 122):

So you are using the manned modular tanks with beam weapons. It will take a few more hits to take out the ship, but the turrets will still be immobilised quickly.

24 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300

"When the mother ship and these little ones are immobilizer, permission to investigate and engage with boots on the ground, skipper? See what we can learn."

In reply to Fate (msg # 121):

Tanks, not drones

In reply to Brutus Cartwright (msg # 124):

Once you  kill off the majority of the bugs, fine; but I do not want anything close to an even fight, you can engage on the ground when we are completely dominant.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 126):

The tanks have reduced numbers somewhat, but there are still plenty more...

24 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300

"Aye, skipper, as you say," replies Brutus.

In reply to Fate (msg # 127):

The ship is using it's beams and the odd missile as well.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 129):

With the beams down, the additional shots by the ships turrets and the missiles soon make hort work of the ship. You see what appears to be a number of giant cockroaches scurrying away from the stricken vessel, as well an a number of individuals bugs, most stopping only long enough to fire at anything in range of their weapons.

24 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300

Gloria has strong feelings about cockroaches ...  she prioritizes them as targets.  I assume a ships beam will do them, even through the atmosphere.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 131):

The ships beams are effective against the roaches. On hitting them, you notice a large number of bugs scatter. However at least three escape into heavily wooded areas or possibly into caves, with two heading for cover in the waters of a lake and river systems.

24 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300

"Skipper, propose a tank takes one heading for cover in the lake and the other tank goes for the one headed for the river. I can try the cave system?"

OK,  I HATE Roaches... but you only have an APC now, the Tanks are better protected.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 134):

The beam and plasma weapons are not so effective underwater. They have scurried there while you were targeting the other roaches.

24 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300

Options are?

In reply to Brutus Cartwright (msg # 136):

There are three in the heavily wooded area, plus the mothership. And the two now underwater, where depth charges can be made for them. If you can find them.

24 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300
This message was last edited by the GM at 06:18, Wed 13 Sept 2023.

"Skipper, those that have gone to ground, or 'water', have done just that. I propose we leave them, one tank on water overwatch, while we, lead by me, investigate the remains of the mothership."
This message was last edited by the player at 18:11, Wed 13 Sept 2023.

A Missile can be used in the shallows, and will be, before they get too far.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 139):

The missile seems to have worked for one, but the other in the lake used a weapon that destroyed the missile about 50 yds short of its target, as the missiles were slower in the water.

24 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300

No one is surprised and the follow on missile volley is all sent to target that bug.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 141):

How many missiles do you send?

24 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300

Two fom the ship and two from the Combo fighter all launched simultaneously.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 143):

One exploded and three were destroyed by weapon fire. You lost the tacking of the bug beneath thermal layers prior to the missiles reaching it.

24 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300

OK, finish up with the other bugs...

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 145):

You cannot track the other three. But you do detect caves they are likely to be hiding in...

24 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300

Perhaps we should just nuke the caves and get it over with ... I am tired of these bugs...


btw, how are our bugs doing?

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 147):

The little ones? Growing up well. And peacefully...They are nearly a month old and eating solidish food.

Nuking the caves may sort them out, though roaches may survive nukes if not hit directly.

24 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300

Or they could spend their days cut off inside the caves, barring more entrances.
Playing exterminator is not especially thrilling ... granted they are suppose to be semi-intelligent, but talking with them seems fruitless.
We are watching and learning from our own bugs, to seewhat sort of native intelligence these bugs have.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 149):

They are picking up languages surprisingly well. However, they seem to have somewhat of a hive mind. You do not convince or teach individuals, but all of them together.

24 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300

Interesting, but also a serious handicap if you can't think on your own.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 151):

True.

But it can explain a lot about the tactics of those you are fighting...

24 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300

Brutus asks the lead researcher, "Do we know the medium and/ordistance over which the hive mind operates? If not, then it's something you need to work on."

In reply to Brutus Cartwright (msg # 153):

"We don't know, but it seems to be within a system. We are working on that. They do not use anything in the electromagnetic spectrum, but do seem to use radios to supplement it over long distances, IE ship to ship."

24 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300

"Perhaps it's sound? Albeir outside our normal hearing range," suggests Brutus. "Worth checking."

In reply to Brutus Cartwright (msg # 155):

"That would not work through space though. Interestingly, the initial bond has to be made physically though. So our kids are not susceptible to the enemy hive Mind unless they meet..."

24 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300

"Well, I was thinking if we can educate them in a certain way, perhaps they can influenece the other hive mind," he continues. "But we might need to capture and isolate a couple of the other bugs. That's why i was asking about how they communicate. Ultrasound or whatever."

In reply to Brutus Cartwright (msg # 157):

"Not sure. But it has to work in space, which sound does not. We are trying to work that out."

24 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300

"Well, you understand my line of thinking, so I'm sure you'll come up with something helpful."

In reply to Brutus Cartwright (msg # 159):

"Absolutely, Sir. We are working on it. It is....just something we have never seen before. We are working on the theory it may be through an as yet undiscovered dimension."

OOC: Good long term approach. Short term? We have one crippled mothership, a bunch of roaches and a few scattered bugs and a decimated local population.

24 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300

"Skipper? How do you want to handle the locals? They've taken some heavy losses from what I've been seeing," queries Brutus. "While I'd be pleased to go bug hunting, I get it that you're not keen on the idea. And you're right, of course." He doesn't add 'Even if you're not.'

"I think exploring more of the mothership is worthwhile. We've discovered a fat lot of nothing on it so far. There's got to be something there somewhere. If not, maybe it means they somehow grow there instrumentation when they need it. or else their ship is like a giant creature and they talk to it somehow. That's the weirdest thing I've said in a while. Anyway, if I'm exploring their ship, maybe some of the bugs will come back too and we can swot them." Brutus is casual in the way he understates the danger level the bugs present, but is mindful that thier speed is stored up energy and needs a recharge somehow, probably a prolonged thing.

Go ahead and explore the Mother ship, carefully. Keep the APC and Tanks around.
For the locals we need to find them a safe place for them to recover.
I am not comfortable knowing that there are bugs around, as their technology gives them an advanatge just as ours gives us one... butI cannot fathom a way to ensure they are all dead.  We can also hope that they cannot procreate here based on one gender missing, hopefully.  With many insect types, the male is little more than a device for procreation.

"Their ship is organic. Maybe that's a giant, specialised bug," Brutus speculates wildly.

I had rather thought that they ships were some sort of plaant like thing. That might be something to clarify.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 164):

The material of the ships is definitely organic, but whether is is plant or creature is actually hard to determine. It seems to have characteristics of both, including what appears to be a circulatory system, hard exoskeleton and chemical reactions not unlike photosynthesis. It seems to consume the waste of the bugs and use sunlight to reconstruct itself, as well as provide food for the bugs.

The technology is very alien for you.

The society seems to work along similar lines to ants. There seems to be a queen that provides eggs, workers and soldiers. However, workers seems to be able to become soldiers if needed. It seems stress might activate this. All of your eggs have hatched into workers. They are not creative, having an almost slave mentality, but do not require much sleep.

24 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300

So happy sweeping the floors and emptying trash?

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 166):

They are happy, as long as they understand how this contributes to everyone.

24 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300

"What next, skipper?"

Well, I gather we have killed their ship, and dispersed the bugs some, what can we do to make things better for the locals? They are likely going to have to deal with odd bug or three for some time to come.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 169):

"Yeah, if they survive. The bugs have done a pretty good job of smashing the planet and they may finish the job if left unchecked."

24 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300

"Could give their ship a once over, skipper," offers Brutus. "Maybe they've sneaked back in. Or we might pull some of them out of hiding nearby."

Possibly, but I suspect they will be coy about going back.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 172):

"Or not, if the queen is still in the ship...if she got out in one of those big bugs, that would be important information to know too."

24 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300
This message was last edited by the player at 04:26, Wed 18 Oct 2023.

"I think it's imporatant that we check this out, skipper," pushes Brutus. "Ship first, then see where that leads us."

"Skipper?" prompts Brutus.

Um, sorry, was thinking... yes, do check it out, but take plenty of power, as if she isthere, they will likely fight to the death for her.



OOC- Sorry, a great deal going on (here) and I missed that Brutus had posted ... won't bore you with the details.

"Righto, skipper, will do!"

======
OOC: It's fine. Just hoping you're ok and that it's 'just stuff', not health. No need to comment though.

In reply to Brutus Cartwright (msg # 177):

All good. Looking throught you Players Vessels post, what do you want to take?

24 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300

The APC is probably appropriate.

In reply to Brutus Cartwright (msg # 179):

Ok. You can take more. Indication of weapons loadouts?

24 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300

OOC: Brutus will know but I don't

In reply to Brutus Cartwright (msg # 181):

Brutus would know that overwhelming firepower would be provided with 3 full APCs (21 of the best security forces [15+Brutus+5 unused pilots], 3 pilots, 3 medics and 3 scientists), backed by 2 Plasma drones, 2 Tanks and a SR Modular fighter (for missile support) and SR fighter in orbital support, out of range of hand weapons, along with the ships weapons.

24 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300
This message was last edited by the GM at 02:54, Wed 01 Nov 2023.

Fine, we can do that then, skipper permitting.

In reply to Brutus Cartwright (msg # 183):

Of course, and let us knowwhat else you might need as things evolve.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 184):

The heavy firepower offered by the drones, combined with the tanks and the sheer numbers, makes the end result a foregone conclusion. What is at stake is the number of casualties. Give me a Tactics roll for that...

A good description of your plan can add to that roll. The wreckage of the mothership is somewhat like Urban warfare, with a shell around it that seems to be made of some sort of biological armour. There are currently three entrances you have 'created', plus whatever entrances were there.

24 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300

20:37, Today: Gloria Flake rolled 6 using 3d6 with rolls of 1,2,3.  Tactics.
But Brutus is the man on the ground...

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 186):

As overwatch and controller of the drones, your initial estimation of the enemy was excellent. Their supposed ambush was predicted and devastated by the drones...with a number of new entrances opened up to your advantage. Clearly the defences were not designed with plasma cannons at short range in mind...

Brutus moves closer and seraches the remains of any bugs that are in the open..

The ship keeps it's drones searching and watches for any sign of trouble.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 189):

You note the area has very few bugs. Two try to fire out as you approach, but are quickly silenced by the heavy beam weapons of the escorts.

Brutus, Tactics roll once you get down?

24 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300
This message was last updated by the GM at 05:30, Sat 16 Dec 2023.

09:55, Today: Brutus Cartwright rolled 7 using 3d6 with rolls of 1,1,5.  Tacttics 12

In reply to Brutus Cartwright (msg # 191):

You anticipate the ambush locations well, and suffer only two minor injuries gaining entrance to the vessel, killing at least 12 bugs on the way in.

You control what seems like half the vessel quite quickly. A second tactics roll like that should end the fight...

24 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300

10:05, Today: Brutus Cartwright rolled 12 using 3d6 with rolls of 5,5,2.  Tactics 12.

In reply to Brutus Cartwright (msg # 193):

The element of surprise given by opening up new entrances is now lost, with the bugs retreating into the core of the vessel. Their defence stiffens causing more casualties as you are forced to fall back and evacuate two badly injured members. Two others are saved from serious injuries by the helmets.

OOC: They rolled well that time...try again?

24 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300

08:22, Today: Brutus Cartwright rolled 9 using 3d6 with rolls of 5,3,1.  Tactics 12

In reply to Brutus Cartwright (msg # 195):

You take a more measured approach and manage to identify the location of the key defenders, using ships guns from the drones to take some of them out by blasting more holes in the hull. There are two more minor injuries though, so you will probably have to lead the last assault on those near the core yourself.

24 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300

Brutus checks his equipment and moves carefully forwards, lokking and evaluating as he goes.

======
OOC: Need a map or layout or something with which to orientate & interact..

In reply to Brutus Cartwright (msg # 197):

The plan seems simple, with co-incentric shells supported by one transverse and two longitudinal bulkheads at right angles. The hull is egg shaped, and the bulkheads divide the hill into 1/8 ths. You believe you must be near the inner chamber.

24 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300

OOC: Difficult to make a plan for it, especially in 3d. But now so deep into the hull, the external weapons will be not so helpful. But their numbers are less, and exit fewer as well. Indeed, the core seems to have only one entrance...unless you make another.

Still needing a map?

======
OOC: For a tactical situation then it would be very helpful, please.

I have tried to make a basic layout in Game Map for group 6. You have not made it into the inner section.Map is plan, but hull shape rotated for 3-D.

Engineering includes engines, life support and Hangers.

Brutus applies breaching tape to the next inermost bulkhead. The tape's combination of thermite paste and shaped charge can made an impromptu entrance really spectacular. Following hot on the heels of his team's stun grenades Brutus nips over the hot edges of the new entance to stand on the new floor that was previosuly a wall and tries a pop up attack on bug defenders if any.

The new entrance is sufficient surprise for the remaining defenders and as they attempt to regroup, they are cut down by your teams fire. The inner core has an independant power supply that is still running and a large incubator, with at least 15 unhatched eggs.

And a very large bug that seems to be laying eggs...

24 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300

"Hey skipper! Take a gander at this!" says Brutus as he relays the picture before him. "Maybe we can communicate with Mother? Maybe even re-educate her through the little bugs that seem to have adopted our bio-techs?"

You can try, but they all seem to be preprogrammed from conception. I would question the idea that the Queen has much in the way of free will.

"Maybe the relevant techs may have a more informed opinion, skipper?" respponds Brutus. "Still a way to go to be certain, but it's likely there little else to discover here. Having said that, there's operational life support here, bug tech, which some of our techs likely will want to study for longer than therthen we can permit."

Well we do seem to have greatly reduced their numbers, but those 15 in incubation are a concern, though unarmed.  Harming them will instantly put the queen against us I'd think. So when they hatch, we will need to carefully remove them, perhaps with our own bugs. Then instruct them as we did the other bugs.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 207):

While you are discussing this, the security detail with you start shouting about something in their heads, and most run out.


24 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300

Brutus swallows.

She must have strong mental powers, be careful.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 210):

"Ugh!" exclaims Brutus.

In reply to Brutus Cartwright (msg # 211):

Just Brutus and 2 others remain...both bring weapons to bear on the queen, awaiting the command to fire.

Having failed at making you run in fear, it tries a different tactic...


24 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300

Brutus thinks at the creature, the queen, 'Can you understand these words?'

In reply to Brutus Cartwright (msg # 213):

There is no response...

24 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300

20:35, Today: Brutus Cartwright rolled 13 using 3d6 with rolls of 3,4,6.  Will roll 12

Wonder if sending one or two of our Bugs down would be a good idea ... showing that we didn't harm them.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 216):

"Maybe, but it could backfire. Our bugs have not shown any abilities like this. This may be how the cult trains the next generation...and deals with outliers."

Meanwhile, Brutus gets a feeling of extreme pleasure, unlike anything he expected! You are unable to move for 10 seconds before the feeling starts to subside. At least one of the others seems to be having similar problems, but the third, noting the effect fires after 5 seconds, causing rivulets of green ichor to flow out of the wounds as the creature recoils.The shooter fires again before you can respond, killing it.

24 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300

That was not a desired outcome, lets secure that soldier and see what he felt and why he did what he did.  [Substitute she for he if appropriate]

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 218):

The others from outside the space will take time to get back to him, and Brutus and the only other soldier in the room take quite a few seconds before they respond. Once they respond, the soldier, who was quite shaken, is calmer and able to talk. He was scared for what might happen when Brutus and the other soldier suddenly seemed incapacitated.

24 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300
This message was last updated by the GM at 05:24, Tue 06 Feb.

Her mental powers must have been considerable... she seems to have not understood how we think and work together or she would never have let him become so scared/oncerned.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 220):

"I guess with a hive mind, you scare some, and the rest will follow. Quite possibly you are right, Ma'am. That might be valuable for later...Can we check the remaining eggs?"

24 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300

Certainly, have our other bugs care for them AFTER they have been recovered.  Don't want our bugs anywhere near that ship.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 222):

"Brutus, can your team collect the remaining eggs?"

"Yes, that should be fine. We'll use a hover-sled*, gauze, cloth blankets and an IV drip to recover them without drying out," replies Brutus who forwards an extra set of images of the scene. "Some crash-foam** might be useful to seat the eggs into."


======
OOC: *High tech wheelbarrow
**Self-setting foam that's the equivalent of a vehicle air-bag
This message was last edited by the player at 22:44, Wed 07 Feb.

In reply to Brutus Cartwright (msg # 224):

"We can get some stuff down to you once the area is secured. Will take an hour or so to pack it up though and get it down there, and it sounds like it will take a couple of hours to set up appropriate transport and facilities to receive them. With your permission, Ma'am."

24 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300

Brutus assumes that he's not being addressed as Ma'am and doesn't respond.

Yes, Certainly. Brutus, did you copy that?

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 227):

"Aye, Skipper."

In reply to Brutus Cartwright (msg # 228):

They head off to start preparations, as described. They will be some time before they are down.

24 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300
This message was last updated by the player at 10:03, Tue 13 Feb.

Brutus keeps an eye on proceedings, notably in case any patrolling bugs are returning home.

He contacts medical on a private line, "Hey doc! Please check out my guys* that have just had a severe emotional or mental attack from the queen bug. When the transfer's done I'll report in myself and you can check me out too. Rules apply to all!"

======
OOC: Brutus communicates the names of those involved.

In reply to Brutus Cartwright (msg # 230):

Aside from the Trauma of having something mess with your mind, they are unharmed. A few weeks of Psych therapy will help them sort it out, but there is the realization that there are some things current science cannot explain lingering...for now.

There are a couple of bugs that seem to try to return home, but the combined firepower, along with the defensive positions you have taken up, make short work of them, and they soon stop coming.

24 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300

Barring the unforeseen Brutus stays with it until the transfer is complete and confirmed secure then updates Gloria before heading off to medical.

The staff up date is typical, but she asks Brutus to come into her office and close the door. She is more solicitous and concerned about him there. Then sends him to sick bay.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 233):

Brutus is adamant that the creature was effecting his mind, though he has no understanding of how that worked. It made him see and feel things that were just not right.

Medical has similar records for the others, but no explanation.

24 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300

Brutus complies in private and then duly goes to medical. "Hey, doc, maybe see if there are any speculative theories about such things. I can't beleive that no one has tried to weaponise this before."

In reply to Brutus Cartwright (msg # 235):

"There is nothing official, we checked while you were on your way up. Maybe someone has tried to weaponise it. Maybe that is why it has been buried so deep as classified we cannot find anything."

"Thanks," says Brutus with a nod. "Let me know if anything occurs to you. But that's something to bear in mind for 'our bugs': that maybe they can communicate mind-to-mind, whether words or just emotions I counldn't say, but if I recall we did some tests here with bariers and so forth that showed it wasn't airbororne chcicals, wasn't pheromones or somesuch."

He reports back to Gloria and requests, "Hey, skipper, maybe you could ask at some point through skipper-only channels? Anything to do with mind-to-mind contact."

Well of course, when we get back to civilization.

Brutus asks the techs, "Is there anything else to learn here, from the organic ship? or are we done here?"

In reply to Brutus Cartwright (msg # 239):

"Unsure, Sir. We may be able to work out something about their organic computers, and we can take the eggs that remain as well as any other loose items. There are a small number of weapons as well. We have not fully checked out the ship. it looks like it was landed intact, more or less."

24 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300

"Sounds important; something we should do," comments Brutus. He updates Gloria and then asks, "Permission to continue, skipper?"

Certainly, carry on, but be cautious

"Will do, skipper." He does so.

In reply to Brutus Cartwright (msg # 243):

The scientists carry on, with some working to removes the eggs to a temporary incubator onboard the ship, and others working their way through the rest to the ship and the equipment available.

You find extra weapons and small equipment, such as chargers, power cells and even what appears to be an organic computer, a brain-like organism in a jar of fluid.

That is when the scientist discover one of the eggs is significantly bigger than the others, by about 50%.

24 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300

"What seems likely, here?" asks Brutus. "If this were a mundane insect colony with which we are familiar, perhaps ants or bees, would that be likely to be a replacement queen? Are eggs for ants or bees, or perhaps chickens, harmed by being XRayed?"

In reply to Brutus Cartwright (msg # 245):

"X-Rays are hazardous, but Ultrasounds are fine. Yes, we suspect the same. The other eggs do not seem to vary more that 10%."

24 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300

"Perhaps our bugs can have a nice influence on the rest of these eggs," speculates Brutus without really knowing anything of substance. "Please consider what you've found and discovered then put it in a report. Inferences and speculation are fine but please clearly mark those as such so that non-technical folk, such as me, may more clearly inderstand. If you require me, or our bugs, as test specimens for the brain-computer-thing then fine, but flag it up front with me first. I'll leave it to you folks to sort out your 'controlled test conditions what-nots."

Brutus retires but takes some of the bug small weaponry to examine.

======
OOC: Have we finished exploring the bug-ship? or is there more to do?

In reply to Brutus Cartwright (msg # 247):

You find about 60 missiles in the ship, about 48 cm in dia and at least 10 ft long, but quite alien in nature. You also find a heavy dorsal turret with a pair of very strange lasers.

Other weapons and gear are

Heavy Blue-Green Laser Pistol, Damage: 4d(2) burn, uses a strange battery-like power supply x 12

Blue-Green Dinosaur Laser, Damage 8d(2) burn, uses a strange battery-like power supply x 5

Superfine Vibro Long Knife x 10, batteries seem damaged.

There are a number of spare batteries, but there seems to be a problem with them. The scientists suspect they got some sort of disease.

Bioplas Suit x 4, suitable for bugs!

24 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300

Brutus says to one of the techs, "Do you think the batteries are interchangeable between the pistols and the rifles? Do you think the bug bioplas suits will have batteries too? If they have, and they're interchangeable with those from the pistols or rifles then perhaps the bioplas suits could be used to recharge batteries for the guns? Do the knives use the same batteries?"

In reply to Brutus Cartwright (msg # 249):

"A battery is a battery, Sir. It might take some rigging up, but I am sure we can adapt them to use our batteries, with time."

24 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300

"So are these weapons more powerful or accurate then ours?"

In reply to Brutus Cartwright (msg # 251):

"Oh, we can make them. They are not more advanced, but these particular ones are very useful underwater, and quite powerful all the same. They are about equivalent to some of ours. It does not take much to take the barrels out and put them into our own weapons, with our own sights. The large rifles are more powerful than our assault rifles, but only because it is bigger. That suggests they may be stronger than us, on average. The large dorsal turrets are not as powerful as our beam weapons, though quite large, suggesting lower technology. They use rapid pulse fire instead of continuous fire mode. The missiles may be useful though, as they are aerodynamic for atmospheric operations."

24 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300

"Very good. Carry on, but keep me posted."

In reply to Brutus Cartwright (msg # 253):

The crew and scientist make their way through the ship, processing everything they can. Ultrasounds confirm suspicion that the larger egg is different, heightening the suspicion that it is another queen.

How long do you want to spend going over the craft?

24 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300

Brutus asks, "How long do you want us to spend going over the craft, skipper?"

If we are still learning things of value, carry on, once we have exhausted  it, quit and come back up to our ship.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 256):

There are things that are being learnt, but the benefit will start to level off after a day. There are trickle raids (by one to three individuals) throughout that time.

24 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300

"We learn a bit more and a few less bugs sounds fine," comments Brutus, but after another three days he suggests to Gloria that it's time to leave.

In reply to Brutus Cartwright (msg # 258):

It will take some time to gather and collate all that is learned. After 4 days, you have gathered everything up and you are presented a brief on what has been found by the various specialties.

Biologist
- The eggs come in three types, Queen, Worker and Soldier. The live ones you have are workers, the smallest and weakest ones. Soldiers can fire webs, like spiders, but workers can only spin the webs, which may be used for constructions like ropes as well as clothing.
- Queens seem to have some sort of connection with all others. There are no communication devices in their inventory.
- The ships and the small craft are partly made, partly grown. Maintenance by workers may use webs for repairs. The hard external carapace is like bio-armour, but the biology is different, though a similar tech level to Terras. All other techs are inferior.

Electronics
- The computers use bio-computers, not surprisingly. While the artificial brains are potentially more powerful, losses in the interface make them overall less powerful, a similar problem to what was faced by Terran researchers looking into bio-computers.
- They believe they have been able to tap into one of the bio-computers to gather some semblance of history of the race. The social scientist will elaborate later, but it would seem the current death cult was not always the only cult.
- Additional information on the computers reveals little more about the weapons and systems than you already know. There are no star charts, other that a list of stars that colonisers were previously sent to. None had faster than light drives, but all were a version of generation ships. You do find a layout of the ecosystem used to keep the bugs alive indefinitely in space.

Social
- Bugs are organised into Soldiers, workers and a single queen. An older queen will lay a single new queen egg to replace her about 30 years before she dies, but will daily inject it with a small amount of pacifier that will stop it from growing. Should she die, it will hatch in about 5 days. The biologist confirm that the queen egg is about to hatch.
- The Death cult was influenced by a black hole near the home world. Six separate cults, the Cult of Light, the Cult of Power, the Cult of Tranquility, the Cult of Technology, the Cult of Economics and the Cult of Order (names were assigned based on characteristics, as translating actual names was too difficult), formerly held sway over the planet. The Cult of Technology, which discovered the black hole, was the first to be 'corrupted', followed by the Cult of Power. When the Cult of Economics was faced with massive losses due to these changes, they soon succumbed as well, with the Cult of Order being overwhelmed by the chaos and most members left them. That left the Cult of Tranquility, which had negligible standing army to start with, and the Cult of Light. The ensuing war quickly overwhelmed the remnants of the first four cults and the Cult of Tranquility, with most opposed to the Death cult joining the Cult of Light. The last Cult, heavily outnumbered, fought bravely for eight years, with most members killed rather than surrender, but in the end overwhelming numbers eradicated them.
- There is detailed working of the Cult of Light, and tell-tale signs of their members in case they may be found. This raises suspicion that they may have gone into hiding, despite the propaganda.
- There is a section for the Queens to read that looks like heavy indoctrination of the Cult of Death. It details why all other life must be 'thrown into the void', and seems very convincing. They have not read through most of it yet, but the suggestion is that the rest of the hive follows the Queen.

Other Tech
- You now understand how to feed the bugs...sugar or honey are very similar to their high energy food, but they also need protein. Usually from cockroach-like bugs.
- The batteries are easy to replicate with your own, so their equipment is easily modified to your tech.

Any Further Questions?

28 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300

"Is there enough there for us to be able to filter out the death indoctrination and replace it with something more akin to light? Or, actually, anything functional that isn't a death cult?" Brutus asks. "Can we educate our bugs and integrate those into an embryonic bug cult of light?"

In reply to Brutus Cartwright (msg # 260):

"The history and indoctrination are very much geared to the Death Cult, much like the old dictatorships on Terra that relied on heavy indoctrination. Perhaps the best counter is to give them our history, which they are likely to verify, that will counter the death Cult. The Cult gives excessive meaning to the black hole, assuming it is an entity in and of itself that should be satisfied. I am guessing the Cult of Light, the details of which are sketchy, considered the Black Hole as a scientific phenomena, but with the most advanced cult subsumed, this voice was drown out by rhetoric.

From what we know, the Cult of Light was described as weak and indecisive, selfishly concerned with each tribe rather than the greater good. They may have had similar philosophies to Terra, so without the details, coming up with our own Cult of Light, enlightened by the scientific discoveries of other aliens (us) they might well be positioned to counter the death Cults rhetoric. But this is getting very theoretical."

28 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300

"Might be a task, or programme, for folks other than us," comments Brutus. "Good work, team!" He looks to their captain for further comments..

Impressive indeed. I want the Death Cult parts made unavailable to the queen and the others., give them the new Cult of a Bright Future, based loosely on Terran and other positive  experiences. Once that is in place, we can then tell them their race is being destroyed by a cult of darkness and death. With luck, we can breed a counter to the Death cult. This planet may actually be useful for that, if we can get the bugs and Humans to cooperate.

Brutus nods, pleased at the captain's praise for everyone.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 263):

"Yeah, about that, the queen egg is developing, and is likely to hatch tomorrow. What should we do with that, Ma'am?"

28 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300

Feed it, have our bugs help it and we need to have "books for it to read that have positive concepts.

Brutus nods a 'Righto, skipper,' and sets about making sure the security end is well catered for.

In reply to Brutus Cartwright (msg # 267):

The rest of the scientists get real busy making the appropriate preparations. The previous queen was quite large, so they are concerned that this one will take up a lot of room as well, longer term.

The next day, the new queen bug breaks out of her egg. The others gather round her, communicating, it seems, without words.

29 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300

We ensure plenty of their food is available.

She also walks in and addresses the queen Welcome, I am the captain of this ship and we have rescued several of your subjects from others who seem to have had evil intent. We would like to have a peaceful and profitable and productive relationship between our peoples. With some care, we hope to put you on a habitable world with others and see all benefit.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 270):

The small creature looks into your mind, rather than talks. One of those nearby suggest it may not have the physical capacity to talk.

You sense more than hear the question about its mother.

29 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300

Your telepathic communication frightened my crew members, one of them became terrified and shot her against our orders. She was dead before we could render any aid. I have tried to save such records as we could for you.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 272):

You feel sad. Will check...

29 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300

Gloria remains firm , as she has told the truth.

20:43, Today: Gloria Flake rolled 8 using 3d6 with rolls of 3,1,4.  Will. –

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 274):

A wave of sadness passes over you, but you resist the urge to cry.

OOC: You can choose to respond, or just wait for a few minutes.

29 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300

She waits for a bit, letting the creature come to terms with the situation.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 276):

There is a few minutes, and you sense she is going through some of your memories as she contemplates what has transpired.

"Are we safe with you? Why?" The questions is clear and almost startles you with it's abrupt simplicity.

29 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300
This message was last edited by the player at 22:26, Tue 05 Mar.

Because it is our way to give all a chance. Wecan’t see all or know all, so we live and let live, indeed we help other to live if they are not destructive.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 278):

"My people are destructive though. But they don't have to be. If my tribe is not destructive, will you help us survive against those that are?"

29 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300

Brutus waits, relaxed but ready.

Yes, that is our plan, and hopefully you can show them another way.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 281):

'Maybe together. But I will need your help for that. Combined history together.'

29 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300

It is our intention to help, and to get others friendly to us to help as well.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 283):

'So, where to from here?'

29 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300

We will put you and the others of your kind back on the planet. We will have to tell the other locals that were attacked by your kind, that you are not their enemy. They will be doubtful I am sure. There are likely a few of the bugs from the old queen here. Will they accept you and your guidance which conflicts with all they have been told?

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 285):

'Unlikely. Please do not abandon me!'

I pledge that if this place is not safe, we will bring you back to this ship and take you and yours with us.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 287):

'I am still very young. Please stay with me for a year so i can learn about the universe. There is still so much to learn and my only teachers are those you say are dangerous or primative. Take us with you!.'

Brutus takes a pace forward, "All ok, skipper?"
This message was last edited by the player at 20:04, Mon 11 Mar.

She wishes to stay with us as she learns.

turning back to the Queen  How may we address you? I am called Gloria Flake, although just Gloria will do here among us.

Brutus nods and relaxes, stepping back again.

In reply to Brutus Cartwright (msg # 291):

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 290):

'Address me? Hmmm....is it not my mother who decides how I should be addressed? Is that you?'

29 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300

No, I am not your Mother. She and I never had a chance to communicate, I did not even know her names or how she was addressed.
I will have my scientists search through such records as we found and see if we can provide her name and title.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 293):

'Mother does not have to be literal. it is term for person who looks after me.'

29 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300

In that sense I may be considered your Mother to my best of abilities.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 295):

'Then you will look after us and not leave us?'

29 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300

My Lady, I already promised that we would not.

OOC: Is mental talking faster than verbal?

In reply to Brutus Cartwright (msg # 298):

Mental communication is at the speed of thought, so yes, much faster than talking.

The creature is pretty much newborn, so it is wanting assurance. What do you plan to do from here?

Well, reassure the Local primitives, tell them we will be back sometime and do what we can to treat the ill/injured and teach them a little before we move back to  contact with Friendly forces to report what we have found.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 300):

Are you leaving a small force to assist with that, given the number of bugs you have with you? They assume you will be taking them with you...

29 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300

We promised the queen we would take all her subjects as I understand it, which is four plus another six? Not a huge amount.
We are concerned about the queen laying a lot of eggs and will ask her if she can hold off for a bit.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 302):

She is too young to lay eggs for now. It will be at least a year before she can.

Yes, there are about 10 extra crew, but you were pretty close to capacity when you arrived. You could use the cargo hold, but there is also the matter of food that will need to be carried. Your vessel does not have a very high cargo capacity to start with, due to the VatFacs.

29 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300, 18/18 Cargo, Life support 111/120 with all bugs, food growth 111/100

Can we increase the food output of the Vat Facs?
I expect we can store some food, but if it will be enough to get us back to Rita's place, I don't know.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 304):

Vatfac capacity is pretty much set at flat out. It could be reduced to make more palatable food, but not increased. Storage of 18 DTons of food would reduce what artifacts you could carry as well.

There are some scientists and security members willing to be part of an away team...

29 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300, 18/18 Cargo, Life support 111/120 with all bugs, food growth 111/100

Since we don't know exactly when we might get back, Gloria is skeptical. give me a bit more idea of whom is volunteering please.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 306):

There are four security members who like the outdoors, two scientists, including one who is a capable medic, and the following:

Pilots
  PO Kia Moikuru (Beams 18, Other Gunner/Guns/Beams 13, Armoury 12, Mechanic 12)
  Pilot Mnwa Phwi (Piloting 17, Navigation 14, Gunner 18, Armoury 12)
  Pilot Lois Alley (Piloting 17, Gunner(Beams) 16, Navigation 16, Ultralight (Pilot 16, Mechanic 12)

Engineering:
  Electronics: PO Gun Da-bin (Electronics repair/Ops 16, Programming/Crypto 15,
    Languages : Korean, English, Russian, German, Spanish, Low and High Vilani, Labrysian, Talz)
  Manufacturing: PO Bramich (Engineer 15, Electronic Ops/Repair/Mechanic/Armoury 16, Explosives 13)
  PO Tanner (Small craft)

They suggest leaving them the following small craft:

1 x Ships Boat Rescuer III 42.5 B Solars, 30 dTon Needle/Wedge
1 x AK Light Modular Tank, M$ 13 Solars, 6 dTon Flattened Sphere
1 x AK Auto-Miniminer, 7.4 M Solars, 6 dTon Flattened Sphere
1 x AK Modular Surveyor, 9M, 6 dTon Flattened Sphere
This message was last edited by the GM at 20:12, Wed 27 Mar.

So 10 people, at least one of whom is a female... I see an issue, with "Boys being Boys". Lois might not be able to walk let alone pilot her craft... and a few more women would even things out some. I am also concerned about the number of pilots  looking to stay. I could see us coming back to a small village. Children will greatly reduce the number of working crew members.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 308):

Not just one, Kia, PO Tanner and the medic are all also female, as is one of the security members, and Mnwa Phwi is not human. But the concern of coming back to a village is not without basis. You suspect PO Tanner and PO Bramich may already be heading along that path...and the relationship with the medic and scientist is known.

Are you wanting more pilots to volunteer?

29 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300, 18/18 Cargo, Life support 111/120 with all bugs, food growth 111/100

No, I was concerned that too many already had…

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 310):

Just 3, you have 12. Format changed to be easier to read...

29 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300, 18/18 Cargo, Life support 111/120 with all bugs, food growth 111/100
This message was last edited by the GM at 04:49, Thu 28 Mar.

So if all these people stay here, we will have just enough VatFac to feed everyone? I assume it will also give us a bit more storage space as well.
Do we have seeds and plants to get them started with farming?

Correct on both counts.

You would have very limited seeds, but there would be plenty of local produce. The scientists can work out what is edible with a little time.

29 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300, 18/18 Cargo, Life support 111/120 with all bugs, food growth 111/100

Not thrilled, but if we can get the  proto-humans here to know they are here and friendly to a point.
Don't need Og deciding he wants to breed one of our women unilaterally.

"Skipper, all ok?" prompts Brutus after quite a while of silence. His hand rests casually on his sidearm.
This message was last updated by the player at 01:52, Mon 01 Apr.

In reply to Bonny Taching (msg # 315):

So plan moving forward?

As in 314 for the moment, but we will also pack up samples and maps and any surveys.
We do plan to leave soon.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 317):

It is not hard to let the local tribe know, depending on where you base yourselves. There are no locals anywhere near the downed ship, however, so if you wanted a safe place, that would be it. The locals are pretty scared of strangers...

So, where to set up camp?
What to leave?
What to take?
Any other pertinent details?

29 July 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300, 18/18 Cargo, Life support 111/120 with all bugs, food growth 111/100

The downed ship is a draw to any remaining bugs... so not a good place to set up camp, but certainly a place to watch.

We'd like a place up a little bit so they can see around and with a spring so they have clean water.  Nit awfully common but certainly we can find such a spot.

The local  primitives are not very friendly toward us?  I'd hoped they would see us as heroes who saved them from the bugs.

Planning what is to be left and what is to be taken is the job of others, I will review the plans before they are executed.

Brutus, have you seen any glaring issues  I may have missed?

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 319):

The local tribes vary. Those tribes that were saved by you direct intervention see you as saviours, while those that heard about it from other tribes are more neutral, seeing you as the saviours of the neighbouring tribes and therefore their attitude depends on how the got along with the neighbours. Those that saw the bug and not you are, frankly, mostly dead and those that saw you and not the bugs, and therefore did not see or hear how you interacted, make little distinction between you and the bugs.

You can find a location by a mountain stream, a plateau with the mountain continuing up in the distance behind you. There is a local tribe that inhabits the plateau, and by attacking the couple of bugs that are just arriving there you ensure you are on good terms with them.

The twelve being left request the small craft as above,

1 x Ships Boat Rescuer III 42.5 M Solars, 30 dTon Needle/Wedge
1 x AK Light Modular Tank, 13 M Solars, 6 dTon Flattened Sphere
1 x AK Auto-Miniminer, 7.4 M Solars, 6 dTon Flattened Sphere
1 x AK Modular Surveyor, 9 M, 6 dTon Flattened Sphere

as well as tools and equipment to manufacture some parts as needed. There is the thought of leaving an APC for accommodation as well. They request you bring back a Robofac.

01 Aug 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300, 18/18 Cargo, Life support 99/120 with all bugs, food growth 99/100

I am reluctant to give up the ships boat and offer them two APCs in lieu of it.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 321):

Their concern is that if any craft run into trouble, they cannot recover them. The ships boat has limited Robofac facilities for manufacturing parts from base materials provided by the Mini-miner. Two APC cannot replace that.

01 Aug 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300, 18/18 Cargo, Life support 99/120 with all bugs, food growth 99/100

Can't argue against that ...we will do it their way ...

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 323):

You set them up in the camp site, and they set up a perimeter, making friends with the nearby local village, or what is left of it after the bugs. Hanging around for a week to ensure things run smoothly, they start to teach the local tribe about farming in return for local food, which is identified as safe by the scientists before you leave.

Anything else before you go?

08 Aug 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300, 18/18 Cargo, Life support 99/120 with all bugs, food growth 99/100

Not that comes to mind...

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 325):

Brutus?

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 319):
"They need more than a minimum level of security. The agressive bugs, thinned out although they are, still represnt a significant threat," answers Brutus as he mentally readjusts and tries to catch up with his skipper's mental exchange.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 323):
"Aye, Aye, skipper."

In reply to Fate (msg # 326):
"Plenty of charged energy cells. Another comms unit as back up. Two more security. It'll leave us short, but it's important they remain secure."

======
OOC: Sorry for the absense. Have been overwhelmed by a tidal wave of RL

Are you suggesting looking for volunteers?

"Up to you, skipper. Or I can stay if you want. I can cover for two."

Volunteers to be sure .... and you may not volunteer.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 330):

You get just one young security member volunteer, and a scientist (biologist) is open to the idea as well.

08 Aug 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300, 18/18 Cargo, Life support 99/120 with all bugs, food growth 99/100

OK, sounds good... we prepare to move on...

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 332):

You have a location by a mountain stream, a plateau with the mountain continuing up in the distance behind. There is a local tribe that inhabits the plateau you made friends with by attacking the couple of bugs that were attacking them and your folk have set up a perimeter. Hanging around for a week to ensure things run smoothly, the shore team start to teach the local tribe about farming in return for local food, which is identified as safe by the scientists before you leave.

There are five security members who like the outdoors, three scientists, including one who is a capable medic, and the following:

Pilots
  PO Kia Moikuru (Beams 18, Other Gunner/Guns/Beams 13, Armoury 12, Mechanic 12)
  Pilot Mnwa Phwi (Piloting 17, Navigation 14, Gunner 18, Armoury 12)
  Pilot Lois Alley (Piloting 17, Gunner(Beams) 16, Navigation 16, Ultralight (Pilot 16, Mechanic 12)

Engineering:
  Electronics: PO Gun Da-bin (Electronics repair/Ops 16, Programming/Crypto 15,
    Languages : Korean, English, Russian, German, Spanish, Low and High Vilani, Labrysian, Talz)
  Manufacturing: PO Bramich (Engineer 15, Electronic Ops/Repair/Mechanic/Armoury 16, Explosives 13)
  PO Tanner (Small craft)

You also leave the following small craft:

1 x Ships Boat Rescuer III 42.5 B Solars, 30 dTon Needle/Wedge
1 x AK Light Modular Tank, M$ 13 Solars, 6 dTon Flattened Sphere
1 x AK Auto-Miniminer, 7.4 M Solars, 6 dTon Flattened Sphere
1 x AK Modular Surveyor, 9M, 6 dTon Flattened Sphere

What is your route back?

09 Aug 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300, 18/18 Cargo, Life support 97/120 with all bugs, food growth 97/100

Route back is the way we came...  Or Brutus can plan it...  feeling a bit off after minor surgery to put a "port" in my upper chest.

BAck the way we came is fine

In reply to Brutus Cartwright (msg # 335):

So, 1438, 1439, 1639, 1838, 1938, 1939, 2040, 2102, 2104, Rita's Place, right?

You could shorten that to 1739, 1939, 2040, 2102, 2104, Rita's Place, though I do not know if you have explored 1739...

Unless there is a reason not to, e.g. time pressure, let's explore 1739.

In reply to Brutus Cartwright (msg # 337):

Given it would be significantly shorter, it would also be faster...so time pressure would not be the concern.

09 Aug 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300, 18/18 Cargo, Life support 97/120 with all bugs, food growth 97/100

Is there another known concern?

In reply to Brutus Cartwright (msg # 339):

Not that I am tracking...that you are aware of.

09 Aug 2188, System 1539, Supplies: 5600 person days, Vatfacs can cover all, $87,496,300, 18/18 Cargo, Life support 97/120 with all bugs, food growth 97/100