Shortly after they were underway, Captain Takagara hailed the other vessels in the squadron,
++ All ships, this is Angantyr-actual. All actuals are requested on channel eight-six, I say again eight-six, at 0830 for mission planning ++
* * *
At the appointed time he began, recounting their orders from MSC Valna,
++ Our mission is clear: sortie to Ultima Black, reconnoitre and then patrol the system. If there are other forces insystem, enforce our sovereignty with vigour ++
++ We can expect support and resupply from the outpost on Ultima VI, of a limited nature. Beyond their handful of non-combatant vessels, nothing else should be making a peep ++
++ Fleet is staging locally to us, and the Rangers will be deeper into the Dead Zone, investigating these silences. Our role is to ensure there are no surprises for them from behind our lines ++
His tone was wry as he continued,
++ Its a messy system, full of icebergs more massive than Haven ... bar Ultima Six which has hoarded all the rock for its moons ++
++ Potential threats could come in the form of smugglers and pirates, remnants of the Brotherhood, or whatever unknown forces are causing the silences ++
++ Rumours aboard the squadron have this as a milk run, the presence of a squadron of 'vettes excessive. If it isn't, then Command has us here in force because of the importance of us finding whatever's lurking to pounce on the rest of the fleet whilst they stage ++
++ We need to be sharp out there, people. Fleet is relying on us ++
Taking a breath, he began to open up the channel to the rest of the captains,
++ Each of us brings different experiences to the table, different perspectives. Let's model the threats and our options before I confirm your orders ++
