Gloria is establishing a new company, Sukun it up, on Sukun. She has to deal with other Criminals, Government officials and various individuals in doing so. Right now, two drivers and a truck of perishable supplies have gone missing, and suspicions point to a rival criminal gang trying to move into the new neighbourhood she is building to sell their drugs.

17 Aug 2182, Sukun, Supplies: 1000 person-days worth, consume 50/week, current crew: 5+Gloria, $526,003,300
This message was last edited by the GM at 01:54, Thu 24 June 2021.

She IS NOT a Criminal Organization or a Criminal!!She is a legal establish business under the laws of Sukun.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 2):

Legally manufacturing and selling weapons to Government approved purchasers?

I am not disputing a legal front...even the Drug dealers have them! They own a used cars dealer, two real estate agencies and several fast food chains, as well as a couple of casinos and pubs.

17 Aug 2182, Sukun, Supplies: 1000 person-days worth, consume 50/week, current crew: 5+Gloria, $526,003,300

"Legally manufacturing and selling weapons to Government approved purchasers?"   what's wrong with this ;-)

I get it, but I don't willingly own up to it...

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 4):

Nothing, if that is what you were doing!

Re: Exploring in an Iiken...

"In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 982):

You arre not sure of the level of protection of HQ or family, but there are plenty of thugs with guns around!"

Well looks like the fighter should do a scan and photos then, so we have more information. lets make it quick, so no time is wasted, get the trucks and men together, two trucks is likely wiser and can cover each other.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 6):

"Ah, now that sounds more like a plan. We can scramble the fighter, and I will gather 20 hard hitters to back it up. Should be ready in 30 minutes, by the time we get the Intel from the flyby."

Hopefully so... Let me get ready too.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 8):

He heads off. True to his word, 30 minutes later he returns.

"We have 20 guys ready to go, armed with anti-material rifles, Storm rifles, grenade launchers and a mortar. The fighter just reached the sight, but reported taking fire from a Laser gatling! They have returned for repairs...the local police seem to have all gone on holidays."

17 Aug 2182, Sukun, Supplies: 1000 person-days worth, consume 50/week, current crew: 5+Gloria, $526,003,300

Why was he so low? We have good enough imaging so he never needed to even be in sight of hose guys.
Tempted to put an Iiken up and use the beam lasers on the gatling laser and other stuff... we should be able to make it much worse on them.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 10):

"Cloud cover was at 9,000 ft (3,000 yards), so he had to be below that, and to get a good idea, had to spend some time. You don't have that good optical, either, x32 for high resolution, so you really need to be closer to closer to 600 yards to recognize faces accurately. Your imaging stuff is not exactly milspec spy stuff...putting an Iiken up would raise the stakes, to be sure. But we have sold some pretty good stuff for starship armour..."

Yes, and I am not into risking it ... although a missile or two might work.
They are obviously expecting us, so driving up is going to be expected and defended against.
What other options do we have?

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 12):

"We can always park nearby and hike in. The truck, like all of ours, does have a GPS tracker, so we know it's approximate location, though the location of the individuals may be a different matter."

That would be expected ...  What I am not sure of is how many of them we may have to fight. Given that they expect us, we can besure all the logical routes in are covered. So w need to find an illogical one... maybe a federal police vehicle or transport ship. ideas?  Maybe an ambulanc that we are NOT in, but their expectation might draw them out of position.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 14):

"A couple of trucks to act as decoys, then we approach in hired cars from another angle? Might take us another hour to hire the cars, but may be worth it. Have 4 guys in the decoys, possibly with a Gatling laser, to create a significant distraction...that what you are thinking?"

Same basic idea... we can give it a try. Bring some rockets/missiles in case of anything big we need to dispatch.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 16):

It takes another 30 minutes to brief the crews and arrange the hire cars, and an hour later you have all moved into positions. The decoy, claiming to be a 'repair team's over the radio, moves towards the trucks position, and is rudely told to leave. The words are soon followed by an exchange of weapons, during which two trucks are hit, but remain drivable. Return fire destroys at least 3 vehicles, including one with a Gatling laser, and kills several others, causing them to call for backup.

You are in position to move towards the trucks...

Uh... I thought they were a distraction and we were going in another way?

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 18):

Yes, you are in position to do that. They are proving a successful distraction...

OK, so we head inaas planned

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 20):

As the decoys withdraw, taking and giving heat, you are able to approach a warehouse that seems to house your trucks, according to the locator signals. A small guardhouse stands at the gated entry, with a linked wire fence around it. The name of the company has faded, or been covered by graffiti.

17 Aug 2182, Sukun, Supplies: 1000 person-days worth, consume 50/week, current crew: 5+Gloria, $526,003,300
This message was last edited by the GM at 06:09, Thu 08 July 2021.

The Gate is open? If so, we drive up like we belong here. How is the guard armed?

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 22):

Sorry, the gate is closed, and the guard makes no attempt to open it if you approach.

17 Aug 2182, Sukun, Supplies: 1000 person-days worth, consume 50/week, current crew: 5+Gloria, $526,003,300

OK, so what sort of gate is it? Chain link we can drive through, solid steel means we'd look for some other place to enter.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 24):

Large chain link, you will certainly get their attention!

17 Aug 2182, Sukun, Supplies: 1000 person-days worth, consume 50/week, current crew: 5+Gloria, $526,003,300

Is he in front of it? She has the driver accelerate into the gate. Thenext car is to eliminate the guard.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 26):

The forward hire car is an SUV, and it responds to your direction by accelerating toward the gate. Your car stops short, allowing the occupants on the passenger side to unleash with an anti-material rifle while the guard is distracted. Overkill or not, it is effective. The SUV then comes to a sudden stop, barely touching the bollards that were activated about 20 metres inside the fence, just in front of the door. The third vehicle, following the first, turns sideways and allows the men inside to get out and head both for the guardhouse (2) and the nearest entrance to the building (2), while the four from the front vehicle head to the only other building entrance.

17 Aug 2182, Sukun, Supplies: 1000 person-days worth, consume 50/week, current crew: 5+Gloria, $526,003,300

Gloria heads for the wharehouse with a few men.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 28):

As you head past the guardhouse fire erupts, injuring ooone man. The return fire from a pair of grenade launchers silences the attack.

17 Aug 2182, Sukun, Supplies: 1000 person-days worth, consume 50/week, current crew: 5+Gloria, $526,003,300

I thought the Guard house had already been cleared by a group... we find a door and tacticaally let ourselves in.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 30):

The guard outside had been dealt with, but it had not been entered, and there were some hiding inside apparently. But it is dealt with promptly, and entrances are made into the warehouse. Explosively in the case of the locked door nearer you. Gunfire from inside indicates more hostiles.

The injured man is taken back to one of the vehicles. His left leg is hit, but he can still drive, and positions himself in a seat and begins applying a bandage to the wound.

17 Aug 2182, Sukun, Supplies: 1000 person-days worth, consume 50/week, current crew: 5+Gloria, $526,003,300
This message was last edited by the GM at 04:25, Tue 13 July 2021.

e engage the shootersand force our way in hiding our entrance with smoke briefly.
I am using the multi spectral goggles and assume others are as well.

[Private to GM: 12:34, Today: Gloria Flake rolled 12 using 3d6 with rolls of 3,4,5.  Guns - rifle  . by 1]

Equipment
Fine Quality (Accurate) Heavy Laser Pistol, 1+3.75 CF,$2400 X 4.75 = $11,400, +2 Acc.
LC:3  Dam:4d (2) burn  Acc:8  Range:300 / 900 RoF:10  Shots:56(3)  ST:6  Bulk:-2  Rcl:1 Wgt:6.6

Gyroc Pistol 15 mm  $200   RoF 4 Ammo 9  Dmg 6D pi++  acc 1   B278
       Gyroc Clips.    3

Storm Rifle, 10mm CLR, Cost: $2700, 10 lbs
  Guns(Rifle), 9d pi+, Acc 5, 1300/5800, ROF 3, 12 Clip, RCL 3, ST:10

Superfine Vibro knives, Large (sw+1d cut, thr+2 imp)

Nanoweave Bodysuit DR 18/6*         $900, 6 lbs Disguised as Vilani business suit $3600

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 32):

Given the numbers and complexity involved, I am more inclined to look for a tactics roll from you, though you are not the only squad level commander...Leut Gardner is also quite capable in this regard.

You force them back, giving significant casualties and taking two more injuries in the process. Your trucks are soon found in the second room in, but there is still no sign of the drivers.

17 Aug 2182, Sukun, Supplies: 1000 person-days worth, consume 50/week, current crew: 5+Gloria, $526,003,300

She directs her team, trying to finish this firefight so they can search for the crews.


[Private to GM:   15:44, Today: Gloria Flake rolled 11 using 3d6 with rolls of 4,3,4.  tactics. By 2 ]

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 34):

You find a heavily defended room near the top and manage to take control of the rest of the warehouse, capturing or killing 8 hostiles in total, with another 3 injuries (now total six, two more serious, no deaths). There seem to be 6-8 hostiles holed up inside the section, when they contact you, warning they will kill the drivers if you do not leave now.

17 Aug 2182, Sukun, Supplies: 1000 person-days worth, consume 50/week, current crew: 5+Gloria, $526,003,300

And how would you have us handle the wounded and prisoners down here? You may be sentencing them and yourselves to death. If You kill them, we have no reason not to eliminate you and that room with a couple of rockets.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 36):

"If they did their job, we would not be in this mess. But if we hand them over, you will definitely clean us out. How about we leave with them, and drop them at the gate, once we are out?"

17 Aug 2182, Sukun, Supplies: 1000 person-days worth, consume 50/week, current crew: 5+Gloria, $526,003,300

Close but no banana, I am also a person of my word. You didn't believe me when I told you to leave us alone,I said you'd regret it, and I suspect you do and will likely regret it much more before all has settled back down.  So we need to fix things so we don't cross paths again, this has likely cost you much more than you realize, as the federal police will be here soon I expect, they don't like big gunfights. So you come out without weapons, safely return my crew to us and I will see you safely out of town. In the future you work your areas and stay out of mine. We can coordinate to avoid crossing each others turf.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 38):

"You may as well shoot us yourselves. I don't have the authority to make those calls. But if the militia are on their way, that is your problem. We are a legitimate business here, and you are illegally entering. So we are happy to wait, since your driver's attacked us by coming here. We know you did not report them missing..."

17 Aug 2182, Sukun, Supplies: 1000 person-days worth, consume 50/week, current crew: 5+Gloria, $526,003,300

That's funny, and we are also a legitimate business. But we don't do drugs as you do... and My drivers did not attack you ... we have the tapes.


Gloria waves the men around to cover the doors and be able to rush in, then indicates some flash bang grenades.  Other men have them as well. When all are in place she will indicate throwing the grenades on 3...then holds up finger 1, 2, 3!  and Throws her flash bang then rushes the door, sliding in and to the side while seeking targets.

[Private to GM:
20:04, Today: Gloria Flake rolled 12 using 3d6 with rolls of 5,1,6.  Guns - rifle  .  By 1
20:04, Today: Gloria Flake rolled 8 using 3d6 with rolls of 1,4,3.  Tactics.   By 5
20:04, Today: Gloria Flake rolled 9 using 3d6 with rolls of 1,6,2.  Throw grenade . By 3 ]

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 40):

Your opponents are smart, but lack military training. They fire blindly at the doors when the flash bangs go off, but your men include a number of TSA, trained in close combat, and it is a one sided affair that is over in seconds. When the dust clears, five hostiles lie on the ground, some groaning, and one of your guys is nursing a shrapnel wound. Three hostiles remain visible all nervously holding guns to the heads of your two guys. When they see they are surrounded, they start to raise their weapons.

17 Aug 2182, Sukun, Supplies: 1000 person-days worth, consume 50/week, current crew: 5+Gloria, $526,003,300

Leave them unhurt or it's going to be a slow and painful way to die ... Who is the leader?

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 42):

A young woman identifies one of those on the ground as the leader.

"A slow, horrible death for us and our families could well as be a reality if we fold..."

She draws a grenade and drops the pin.

17 Aug 2182, Sukun, Supplies: 1000 person-days worth, consume 50/week, current crew: 5+Gloria, $526,003,300
This message was last edited by the GM at 20:49, Tue 20 July 2021.

Or I could see you sent elsewhere... that is within my abilities. But then I'd want all you can tell me for the trouble. Any particular place you would like to relocate to?

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 44):

She scowls.

"I have a daughter he would turn into a whore. Better you kill us..."

She stows her gun and draws a second grenade.

17 Aug 2182, Sukun, Supplies: 1000 person-days worth, consume 50/week, current crew: 5+Gloria, $526,003,300
This message had punctuation tweaked by the GM at 23:59, Wed 21 July 2021.

And you can't bring her along?

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 46):

"She is back in the 'family' compound...so no."

She is now holding two primed grenades, one in each hand. one of the others gets the idea and stows his own gun, and starts fishing for something in his pack.

17 Aug 2182, Sukun, Supplies: 1000 person-days worth, consume 50/week, current crew: 5+Gloria, $526,003,300

OK, Guess I don't get it... you can't take your daughter out of this compound?  What is this, some sort of do as i say or your family pays operation? Can we take them out and get all your families out?


She adjusts her position so she can dive out a door in case ms. Blow Me Up tried to do something stupid.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 48):

It looks as  if something stupid is exactly what she has in mind.

"They look after our families for their protection, but it also ensures a loyalty. Now, like I said, we and these drivers will walk to one of the vehicles, and we will release them once we are out of here. Or we can all wait here until our backup arrives."

17 Aug 2182, Sukun, Supplies: 1000 person-days worth, consume 50/week, current crew: 5+Gloria, $526,003,300

OK, Walk Out, but leave the drivers unharmed ... they have familes too. Put the pins in the grenades if you don't mind tho' , I have given my word. You honor our deal, We will honor our deal.

Gipper, Make sure the guys below know what's going to happen, give them one of the cars ... If the drivers are released unharmed, they will not be bothered on their way out.

Gloria motions for everyone to let them move out...

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 50):

They take their time, but do put the pins back. You follow them to the main exit. At the main gate, they select the rear vehicle you were driving, and insist the drivers accompany them, promising to let them out a block away.

17 Aug 2182, Sukun, Supplies: 1000 person-days worth, consume 50/week, current crew: 5+Gloria, $526,003,300

At the gate, they can walk beside you to the gate... a block away is not workable.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 52):

The driver is already in the vehicle, and they are standing beside your drivers with their greanades. At your refusal, they remove the pins again.

"We said we would release them when we are safe. You want to put all your weapons in a vehicle and leave the vehicle, or do we take your men until we have a reasonable chance even if you fire on us?

17 Aug 2182, Sukun, Supplies: 1000 person-days worth, consume 50/week, current crew: 5+Gloria, $526,003,300

I have already said no one will fire on you, Let the drivers go and I will go with you.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 54):

That offer does take them by surprise, but after a brief discussion, they accept your offer.

They head out in the vehicle, and the driver has to be told to stop three times, but he does two short blocks away.

17 Aug 2182, Sukun, Supplies: 1000 person-days worth, consume 50/week, current crew: 5+Gloria, $526,003,300

She gets out, My Word is good as Gold when given. Perhaps your "Family" needs to reconsiderr their enemies and friends.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 56):

They look nervously at you, but leave quickly.

One of your trucks arrive less than a minute later, and you all head off quickly and get back to base. You are one hire car short, and have significant damaged another. The hire company wants $70,000 for damages.

But you have the trucks back, along with the cargoes and drivers, and half a dozen injured guards. It will probably be on the news tomorrow...

17 Aug 2182, Sukun, Supplies: 1000 person-days worth, consume 50/week, current crew: 5+Gloria, $526,003,300

I assume we have Hard drives and any other useful information and things.
Pay the Company the $70k.
Research where these people (Bad Guys/girls) drove to.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 58):

They did not have any computers, at least by the time you got there, but there were a number of deaths reported locally that enable you to track them. But it is hardly needed, Leut Gardner has more information on them and who is in charge, and where they live. They make no attempt to contact you next day, though local police do come with some questions.

18 Aug 2182, Sukun, Supplies: 1000 person-days worth, consume 50/week, current crew: 5+Gloria, $525,933,300

Of Course, we rescued our people... let them talk to the drivers.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 60):

The police do talk to the drivers, learning about the kidnapping and the rescue. However, eleven individuals were killed in the rescue, and that level of violence concerns them a lot. The public want to see people charged, and it is not feasible to charge the dead or their friends. They ask your security for their weapons, so they can analyse them

18 Aug 2182, Sukun, Supplies: 1000 person-days worth, consume 50/week, current crew: 5+Gloria, $525,933,300

We give them selected security weapons (not heavily used). Other weapons are rebuilt, barrels etc seem to be new (but old ones are available in the blast furnace, although quite liquid right now).
Well, we needed to get our men freed. The police didn't seem to be acting on the attack and kidnapping so we did, as always, time is of the essence. Is there a chance that the local police were told or paid to stay ot of it?

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 62):

They quickly recognize the new barrels, and ask where and when you got them, since the serial numbers do not match the weapons.

The veiled threat is not lost on them, nor appreciated! it is plausible they may be some of those on the take, and their response suggests they do not want that to be public knowledge!

18 Aug 2182, Sukun, Supplies: 1000 person-days worth, consume 50/week, current crew: 5+Gloria, $525,933,300

The serial numbers never matched because barrels are a part and are not serial numbered, they have a part number, which is trackable by date and location of manufacture  ... any barrel will fit any weapon, so why would we track them as inseperable?

Gloria gets the drift, although it was a question, not a threat.  Was there a problem or delay in being notiifed of the kidnapping?

Which should allow tem to weasel out if so inclined.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 64):

They remain defensive, claiming that they were not notified at all, and asking why you did not notify authorities and work with them.

Since barrels are usually matched with weapons by serial numbers by Vilani manufacturers for greater accuracy, they are not convinced. They once again ask for proof of purchase.

18 Aug 2182, Sukun, Supplies: 1000 person-days worth, consume 50/week, current crew: 5+Gloria, $525,933,300

We show them where the weapons were acquired from the company.
Unlike the Vilani, the company does not match all the parts by serial number.
But we can build as good a weapon as they can and sell it less expensively this way.
And of course some never have serial numbers, so they cannot be identified or easily traced.
But we don't tell them that.

We did call, and I can provide times and the information transmitted.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 66):

Which company did you get them from, bearing in mind that you do not have legal weapons production? Happy to be corrected if you can find a reference...but my memory was that you were only a truck company, officially.

18 Aug 2182, Sukun, Supplies: 1000 person-days worth, consume 50/week, current crew: 5+Gloria, $525,933,300

Ah...I thought we had made it legal, but you may be right...  if so, these would be Vilani weapons with matching serial numbers ...quick change barrels for automatics, two per weapon. Recently shot ... probably very much like the weapons we captured, which we can show them.  and the grenades etc that were with the deceased. Any barrels that did a lot of the killiing will not be here, since if we make weapons, we can make barrels with serial numbers and proof marks.  But we will be very helpful and talk about shooting from a lot of directions during the gun fight.

Not your average Guards

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 68):

Ok. If you show them captured weapons, they may be interested. What precautions did you take in collecting and handling captured weapons? Also, what precautions are taken with the weapons you hand to them?

18 Aug 2182, Sukun, Supplies: 1000 person-days worth, consume 50/week, current crew: 5+Gloria, $525,933,300

Well their weapons were just picked up and cleared, with gloves if available.
Our weapons have all been cleaned and made ready for further use.

Not sure what sort of precautions you are talking about ...if you mean is ammo available, no not readily, although we have ours and they have theirs, I assume.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 70):

Looking at gloves and handling, steps taken to ensure captured weapons are controlled and not mixed up with yours or taken as souvenirs, etc.

18 Aug 2182, Sukun, Supplies: 1000 person-days worth, consume 50/week, current crew: 5+Gloria, $525,933,300

Ah, yes, all that was done as I implied with mentioning using gloves etc., but a few probably have our prints from when we cleared them... hopefully everyone had gloves but Murphy is alive and well.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 72):

Lol, I thought that might be the case, but I did not want to assume. You know about assumptions!

You have good accountants and folk to manage these things, so they find nothing incriminating. However. Gardner is concerned they might try to claim the criminal weapons were yours, so you would be charged with the crimes they committed with them, so he documents what they take and where they were from, and has them countersign and witness that.

18 Aug 2182, Sukun, Supplies: 1000 person-days worth, consume 50/week, current crew: 5+Gloria, $525,933,300

Seems fair to maintain accountability of evidence. Done is all civilised worlds.

Quick check with Bjorn to seee how he and his dad are doing.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 74):

Which makes it something they cannot refuse, though they are not particularly comfortable with it. The evidence is gathered, and Gardner gets the best lawyers he can find.

Bjorn and his dad are doing surprisingly well, and a number of doctors that declared he did not have long to live are amazed at the'barbarian' technology. Bjorn also asks about the kidnapping, since scant details have made the news.

18 Aug 2182, Sukun, Supplies: 1000 person-days worth, consume 50/week, current crew: 5+Gloria, $525,933,300

Gran Pa wasn't supposed to be talking about "barbarian technology" now was he ... For Bjorn, I just tell him a cartel snagged a few of our guys, we snagged them back and made it costly for them. We can explain the finer details when next I see you, which hopefully will not be too long.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 76):

"It would appear he is not trained in the finer points of keeping secrets. He did not intend on telling them the details, but let it slip once. He still makes a point of denying it, but now that word has got around, his denials only seem to add fuel to the rumours. However, there is a growing undercurrent of folk who want to foster better relationships with terrans, and the recent quieting of actions only helps that."

Note that the last major battles in this region were in Feb 2182, though Nusku is still under siege. Most regard that as Terrans regaining what was theirs, so it is considered a local issue.

18 Aug 2182, Sukun, Supplies: 1000 person-days worth, consume 50/week, current crew: 5+Gloria, $525,933,300
This message was last edited by the player at 02:10, Wed 04 Aug 2021.

Musky?  i assume that was Nusku before spelling corrections.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 78):

True. Posting from phone has some disads.

Yes it does...

They seem to have some useful ideas in some areas, medicine being one of them. But I think there will be a lot of resistance to any sort of open trade.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 80):

"Perhaps directly, but the forces that attacked nearest to us did not come via Orgill. We have found out there is a colony much nearer here they protect, and they have already been trading with us on the black market. So getting things through them may mone possible. A grey market through intermedaries."

18 Aug 2182, Sukun, Supplies: 1000 person-days worth, consume 50/week, current crew: 5+Gloria, $525,933,300

Makes sense, I need to look into that some then, I'd hate to lose out on a profitable deal. I've dealt with the civil side of Terra as a merchant, as I am sure you have figur out, and find them little different from the Vilani. Their Military seems a little edgy and always looking for a way to get an advantage. I have had little dealings with them other than the normal customs stuff, but have watched them and their behaavior when they wer around.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 82):

"I suspected you might have had quite a bit of contact with them. Any medical technology you can get from them would definitely be appreciated by some, at least. Aslo, any Military details such as the actual risk we face here from those nearby colonies would also be good."

18 Aug 2182, Sukun, Supplies: 1000 person-days worth, consume 50/week, current crew: 5+Gloria, $525,933,300

Well I have already made some enquires on the medical, that was a no brainer given we had to take your Dad there to be healed. Military threat? I'm no expert, but I have not seen anything or heard any talk of attacking this way .. You'd have heard about it if I had.


[Private to GM:  13:54, Today: Gloria Flake rolled 9 using 3d6 with rolls of 4,1,4.  Acting. by 4 thankfully ]

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 84):

"Good to hear. I am sure that there are plenty who would be happy to see the trade increased. Would you be able to take some of our guys to the colony nearest here so we could get some early warning so the attack on Sikigi is not repeated closer to home, as we all fear. That would be very bad for your business as well as my welfare."

18 Aug 2182, Sukun, Supplies: 1000 person-days worth, consume 50/week, current crew: 5+Gloria, $525,933,300

Well, that route was closed off... but if we could go there, I'd suggst an ambassador who spoke honestly with the locals. From what little I learned, the Locals were fleeing the Vilani when their ship had issues and left them stuck there, a vast number of years ago.  Once found, they began to trade wth the peope on systems that had been establish by settlers from Terra. Those settlers do have a reasonable force of ships, but seem mostly inclined to be defensive. I think they have agreed to protect that system from Vilani and Pirate incursions as best they can.   No one has any illusions about stopping a thousand ship fleet, but with warning, te populace would probably flee before accepting the vilani rule again. I think any sort of military operation there would be most unwelcomeand likely taint relations for a long time.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 86):

"As far as I know noone is planning anything offensive around here anytime soon. Course there are always young officers out to make a name for themselves, but I doubt anyone will trust them with the kind of firepower it sounds like they would need. But like I said, we are concerned about Terra using it as a staging point. Would they be open to an ambassador?"

18 Aug 2182, Sukun, Supplies: 1000 person-days worth, consume 50/week, current crew: 5+Gloria, $525,933,300

No Clue, but it wouldn't hurt to ask ... Certainly opening any form of communications is a plus, so long as some Pol doesn't try to squeeze them so he can be important. Do they have a diplomat  chosen? I'd be glad to fly him there and back for cost.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 88):

"The question has been asked, and they are looking into it, but the risk involved in getting them there is considered too great. But if you can transport them there, with a reasonable chance of success, thatayake it more viable. I will pass your willingness on to command."

18 Aug 2182, Sukun, Supplies: 1000 person-days worth, consume 50/week, current crew: 5+Gloria, $525,933,300

I used to trade that way until the raid on Sikigi closed it off. I think it should be reasonably safe. You'll have to wear civilian clothing if you ar coming along.  She smiles.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 90):

"Right. Will they be open to an official ambassador, or will it have to be someone under cover?"

18 Aug 2182, Sukun, Supplies: 1000 person-days worth, consume 50/week, current crew: 5+Gloria, $525,933,300

Well it should be a diplomat, an Ambassador at Large might be a good idea. He or She must be in a position to make binding promises, and know the limits of what is acceptable to the Government of Sukun and what is not, so there are no false promises made. Better to have an honest failure to agree than having anyone lie. I think any military of rank is going to sour the meeting before it starts. They will surely see that as a military reconnaisance.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 92):

"So an official ambassador, then. They if they are kimshagar, they will be willing to accept an official representative of those they fled many years ago? How long ago did they flee?"

18 Aug 2182, Sukun, Supplies: 1000 person-days worth, consume 50/week, current crew: 5+Gloria, $525,933,300

Got a Kimashargur Ambassador?  I think they have been out of Vilani territory for 300 or more years ... don't remember exactly.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 94):

"Kimshargur is a way of thinking, and yes, we have no shortage of them, but their loyalty to the Empire is, by definition, suspect. I am sure we can find a suitable candidate though."

18 Aug 2182, Sukun, Supplies: 1000 person-days worth, consume 50/week, current crew: 5+Gloria, $525,933,300

Understand that these people owe the Empire nothing and got nothing but pain from it. They will not trade with the Empire, but they may willingly trade with Sukun and Dzosuiken. This is a local trade situation and a fragile one. Let them find one empire agent and it will stop instantly, at least that is my thinking.  They will trade with you because you are Kimashargur; the Empire is something to fear.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 96):

He listens, and takes a little time to respond.

"That may be hard for some to understand, but I will try to communicate that to those that will select the individual. But if we find someone, you can get them there safely, right?"

18 Aug 2182, Sukun, Supplies: 1000 person-days worth, consume 50/week, current crew: 5+Gloria, $525,933,300

I think so, If not, then I likely won't have to answer for my failure. But I seriously doubt that there is any serious danger, although we will have to be careful not to apear hostile in anyway on arrival.
This message was last edited by the player at 02:52, Fri 13 Aug 2021.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 98):

"Despite your dark humour, I appreciate your optimism. We will bear in mind your situation when we select someone. When are you coming up so we can meet again?"

18 Aug 2182, Sukun, Supplies: 1000 person-days worth, consume 50/week, current crew: 5+Gloria, $525,933,300

I'm not sure. Did you have something particular in mind   Smiles.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 100):

"Oh, I always am thinking of that!" he answers suggestively.

18 Aug 2182, Sukun, Supplies: 1000 person-days worth, consume 50/week, current crew: 5+Gloria, $525,933,300

Ooohh, a creative thinker... I shall have to visit soon then.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 102):

"That is what I like to hear! Shall we book a date?"

18 Aug 2182, Sukun, Supplies: 1000 person-days worth, consume 50/week, current crew: 5+Gloria, $525,933,300

Sure

She arranges her scedule some so she can go visit.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 104):

Ok, you can manage a visit in the next two days, though the local investigation is ongoing.

18 Aug 2182, Sukun, Supplies: 1000 person-days worth, consume 50/week, current crew: 5+Gloria, $525,933,300

Perhaps she should stay until that is completed ... no surprises. I am sure Bjorn understands that...

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 106):

Sort of. He asks what happened.

18 Aug 2182, Sukun, Supplies: 1000 person-days worth, consume 50/week, current crew: 5+Gloria, $525,933,300

Drug cartel is unhappy we won't let them sell in our factory/town. I suspect they want to distibute from there as well. They kidnapped two drivers and took their deivery trucks and items to a factory near here.  We went and took them back by force. The security forces who didn't ge involved are now upset because we didn't go through them.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 108):

"Ah. There is a right way of doing things, and then there is a more effective way. Why did you not give the Militia a go first?"

18 Aug 2182, Sukun, Supplies: 1000 person-days worth, consume 50/week, current crew: 5+Gloria, $525,933,300

Slow and I think already bought and paid for.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 110):

"Bought and paid for? Perhaps some individuals, but not all, surely. You just need to identify the right ones."

18 Aug 2182, Sukun, Supplies: 1000 person-days worth, consume 50/week, current crew: 5+Gloria, $525,933,300

One doesn't ask for officer Bob so you can report an emergency.
Police forces the worlds over have been bught here and there. It only takes a few to poison the system.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 113):

"Well, actually, you can ask for a particular officer if you know he is honest. That is a time-honoured tradition in places worlds over where Law enforcement is known to be less than pure...it also works from the other side. If you have bought a cop, you have his number on speed dial, and he is the one who get the information first and stats the investigation the way you wanted it started. I have got rid of a few such coppers..."

18 Aug 2182, Sukun, Supplies: 1000 person-days worth, consume 50/week, current crew: 5+Gloria, $525,933,300

OOC: That is how it works in many parts of the world today!

Yes, and he organized crime guys get rid of the other ones. A no win process.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 115):

"He? You have names of corrupt cops? Do you have some evidence so we can start to deal with them?"

18 Aug 2182, Sukun, Supplies: 1000 person-days worth, consume 50/week, current crew: 5+Gloria, $525,933,300

No, that was "The" ...but I am questioning those who came here, as they really wanted to find somthing wrong with us.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 117):

"They may have just been doing their job, too. If they treated the others the same way would be telling."

18 Aug 2182, Sukun, Supplies: 1000 person-days worth, consume 50/week, current crew: 5+Gloria, $525,933,300

True, but of course the "others" moved to a locatiion in a different precinct .

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 119):

"I would have thought investigations of this nature would not be restricted by precincts. I will get some of my friends to look into the situation down there."

18 Aug 2182, Sukun, Supplies: 1000 person-days worth, consume 50/week, current crew: 5+Gloria, $525,933,300

OK, I'll help as I can, although I don't want to makeit look like I have any influence with he investigation.

We will ensure weapon/ammo construction is off the table, as we don't know these new investigators. Trucks and parts go full bore. High pressure tools like Jack Hammers, and such take weapons place on the construction lines. We know there is a need for them too.
Ammo lines make Brass fittings and some holders for commercial explosives, but not the explosives themselves.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 121):

You will run into Intellectual Property conflicts manufacturing anything on the market. You have not taken any blueprints for items from Terra specifically, and many common items are of Vilani design and will run into the IP rights issue mentioned above.

As for the investigation, Bjorn is all over it. He keeps the investigators completely separate. But they will not get there for 3 days to start, as they are coming from the Capital, of course.

18 Aug 2182, Sukun, Supplies: 1000 person-days worth, consume 50/week, current crew: 5+Gloria, $525,933,300

I am presuming that a slightly different design with some changes will step around the IP issue. And we can take any Terran ideas we know of and incorporate them, for better or worse. Perhaps a foot peg to allow more pressure to be applied or a bit that turns as it is propelled forward.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 123):

The Vilani designs have been refined over 1000 years. Literally. Can you give me details of what you want to make, or make a design roll to come up with a new design, or a marketing roll to come up with a Terran product not on the Vilani market


18 Aug 2182, Sukun, Supplies: 1000 person-days worth, consume 50/week, current crew: 5+Gloria, $525,933,300

I was just trying to make soething that would use equipment very much like used to make guns.

She obviously didn't get the 7 or less for success in design or marketng.

14:01, Today: Gloria Flake rolled 11 using 3d6 with rolls of 4,6,1.  Marketing Ideas.
14:01, Today: Gloria Flake rolled 10 using 3d6 with rolls of 4,1,5.  Design Concepts.

Was basically talking powered mine drills and construction hammers that use hydrualics, gunpowder, air or electricity to drill or cut rock like substances.
The vilani may have been doing it for a 1000 years, but they also have a strong inclination to leave well enough alone, so they are unlikekly to have explored all the possibilities. The powder driven drilling tools to open up a narrow shaft to work from or to insert a charge into for blasting, might be a good one.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 125):

You manage to come up with a concept used in the local mining...tubular drills used for mining are custom-made for the local mines, so they give the specifications and the design and contract out construction, which you can easily win, by just covering costs. They also blast through rocks, and so they are happy to have plasma production to get through the rock.

The mines mine natural gas and oil, as well as silica and iron ore.

18 Aug 2182, Sukun, Supplies: 1000 person-days worth, consume 50/week, current crew: 5+Gloria, $525,933,300

That works, we'll keep them suppled and the "cover' is welcome.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 127):

Given you are also one of their customers, that cover does work. Though you will have to invest in approximately $1,400,000 to create some specific parts, such as the drill heads, to secure this as a long term cover. It does take a few days to secure the contract.

In the meantime, the local mafia are getting more antsy. Gardner suggests sending significant armed guards with the supply trucks, including an second armed truck or adding a turret to the existing vehicle.

18 Aug 2182, Sukun, Supplies: 1000 person-days worth, consume 50/week, current crew: 5+Gloria, $525,933,300

Agreed, and the fighter UP HIGH with decent tracking and scanning equipment. Maybe the local version of Hellfire missiles.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 129):

"Actually, may I suggest we look at the purchase of a couple of heavier armoured vehicles. A couple of ambulances, with one of their two sickbays removed and a small turret added with a beam weapon, or a mortar, might be better suited that the cargo shuttle. Or an Assault shuttle.

So that the capacity does not rely on you being here. Of course, for military craft, we may will need a licence, but we have already got an application in for our local security forces."

18 Aug 2182, Sukun, Supplies: 1000 person-days worth, consume 50/week, current crew: 5+Gloria, $524,533,300

That's fine, You know more of these things than I do ... my field was space combat.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 131):

Lieutenant Gardner puts together a list of suitable escort vehicles. The

Medium Tank, $1500 k Solars, 30x11.9x7 (8 dTons), HT:9
Ex Military only and primarily disarmed, the missile launchers are
(Tracks, Move: 39, DR, Front:700, Other: 350, SM:+5, HP: 210)
Sensors: 16, Fusion Power Plant, Railgun and 40mm Auto EMGL and have been removed,
6x64mm Multiple Light Anti-Armour Missile Launcher, 100mm Tactical Missile Launcher

Armoured Personel Carrier, $500 k Solars, 23x10x8 (6 dTons), HT: 9
Ex Military, will cost another $100,000 for a Gatling Laser, more for larger weapons.
(Wheels, AT, Move: 24, DR: 160, SM:+4, HP: 150)
Sensors: 14, Seats: 24, Fusion Power Plant

Ambulance, 820 K Solars, 4 dTons, Fusion Reactor HT:10,
No weapons, most lightly armoured. Will cost another $100,000 for a Gatling Laser, more for larger weapons.
(Grav Propulsion unit/Move: 460, DR: 100, dHP: 13, 2 Sickbays)

Ex Military vehicles are available from the Capital but they have been disarmed, with missiles not being available, so the launchers remain basically installed, but unusable due to lack of ammo, and targeting system also removed. But you can replace them relatively easily.

19 Aug 2182, Sukun, Supplies: 1000 person-days worth, consume 50/week, current crew: 5+Gloria, $524,533,300

Hate to spend all that money, but we have to do something.

2 tanks, 3 APCs and an Ambulance to start.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 133):

That will come to 5.32 million, plus transport from the capital, and take 3 days. Steps in the meantime, and modifications?

19 Aug 2182, Sukun, Supplies: 1000 person-days worth, consume 50/week, current crew: 5+Gloria, $524,533,300

Take Bjorn inthe bedroom and get rid of some tension and stress...

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 135):

You arrange the purchase, flying to the capital to make the arrangements and spending some time with Bjorn at the same time. Leut Gardner goes with you, and overseas their transport back, while you tarry a few extra days.

Discussions do once again turn to the representation at the Kimshigar colony, and a couple of Bjorns senior officers ask to speak with you on the 21st, just after the vehicles have left.

21 Aug 2182, Sukun, Supplies: 1000 person-days worth, consume 50/week, current crew: 5+Gloria, $519,213,300

This being Leikung?

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 137):

That is how you know of it.

21 Aug 2182, Sukun, Supplies: 1000 person-days worth, consume 50/week, current crew: 5+Gloria, $519,213,300

Well lots of Kimashargur colonies about, What is it you wish to discuss?

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 139):

"Outside of Vilani space?"

Do you accept the invitation to talk to his seniors?

He looks quite surprised.

21 Aug 2182, Sukun, Supplies: 1000 person-days worth, consume 50/week, current crew: 5+Gloria, $519,213,300

She looks at him with a bit of surprise. Of course outside of Vilani Space. These are people who fled when the friendly Vilani started nuking places that thought that they had some good ideas too.

She agrees to speak with his senior officers.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 141):

"So you know of several Vilani colonies outside Vilani space? Fascinating. Where?"

He arranges the meeting over dinner that evening.

21 Aug 2182, Sukun, Supplies: 1000 person-days worth, consume 50/week, current crew: 5+Gloria, $519,213,30

She waves her arm across the horizon... Bjorn, there are many and in many different places. A lot of folks ran in small groups most often, but have grown and most prospered. BUT they are NOT Vilani Colonies, they are often Kimashargur who want not a damn thing to do with the Vilani. Some have actively fought against any Vilani  visits or interest. A lot of Vilani scouts just don't come back. Often the crews just stay and become new citizens.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 143):

"Umm, right. We might have to discuss that later."

You are taken by Bjorn for dinner to a nice restaurant. There are four other elderly men waiting there, and you are shown to your seat. The older gentleman waits until you are seated before starting in a mild manner.

"Bjorn has said very little about you. Tell us about yourself."

21 Aug 2182, Sukun, Supplies: 1000 person-days worth, consume 50/week, current crew: 5+Gloria, $519,213,30

Not much to tell, my family was poor, but pushed me in school. On leaving I managed to get a menial job on a freighter, started learrning the ropes and rose in the ranks; then the pirates started to get really bad, so I studied their tactics and how to evade or defeat them. I got pretty good at it and the pirates never seemed to learn or up their game. I managed to amass some prize money and started this business with a couple of friends. Some have moved on, one was let go and Mr Gardner and I have kept trying to grow it. I originally came from outside Vilani space, but we kept trading in it. I noted Sukun and Dzosuiken were good trading areas and saw some opportunity here, so started with a few ships running routes and some manufacturing, Trucks, which seemed to be in some demand, and have proven to be a sound decision.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 145):

"Interesting. Where is your home planet, and how did you come to deal with barbarians, given they are usually pirates?"

21 Aug 2182, Sukun, Supplies: 1000 person-days worth, consume 50/week, current crew: 5+Gloria, $519,213,30

It is Spinwad and a good bit further from the core. As far as the barbarians being pirates, I'd laugh, although I know you believe that. They are just like all the people here. Most are normal, work for a living and want to as little government control on their lives as is possible. A few are pirates, as are a few Vilani.  However they are much more open to exploration of new ideas and places. If the Vilani way is the best, they use it, if they can improve it or find a better way, they do that. They are leess inclined to want to own nd control everything and more inclined to create trade which becomes too profitable for either side to interupt; differences are generally tnegotiated out.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 147):

"Hmmph. When they trade, they are disruptive, when they explore, they are disruptive. They bring diseases, so clearly they lack hygiene. If you ask me, they should have been eliminated...but they were not. But we don't deal with them...we are looking to deal with Vilani, and though they are kimshigur, they should still have some honour. Can you get some agreement for the safety of our diplomatic team?"

21 Aug 2182, Sukun, Supplies: 1000 person-days worth, consume 50/week, current crew: 5+Gloria, $519,213,30

Hmmm, I see a major problem here, your attitude will fly like a lead brick, as they know all you say is wrong and or uninformed. The "Barbarians" medical progress exceeds that of the Vilani, their health is as good or better. Their deals with other systems and cultures is much less authoritarian. The Kimashargur we speak of know this and will buy none of your misguided beliefs. However your representatives will indeed see the inconsistancies in your official views and there will soon be serious doubts raised among the populace about the official Vilani views. Are you sure you wish to open that box, knowing the eventual outcome is unknown?
As for the safetyf your diplomatic team, I see no prroblems so long as they do not threaten or use force of any sort. There might be a terran trader there, hey are welcome there, so nothing should be said or done to or about them. Well if you wanted to have a drink and compare families, that would be OK.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 149):

"Don't threaten or use force? Terran pirates jumped from there and laid waste several systems with a larger raiding force than these parts have ever seen! Thousands of Vilani peacefully living in these quiet frontiers died because of the forces THEY allowed to use their system! As for my ' misguided beliefs' they have been held by billions of Vilani for centuries, maintaining peace among different species while you barbarians could barely go 100 years without a major conflict! Tell me, how long is your longest period of peace on Terra? How long could you keep peace on just ONE planet?"

The disdain is palpable.

21 Aug 2182, Sukun, Supplies: 1000 person-days worth, consume 50/week, current crew: 5+Gloria, $519,213,30

First, what makes you think I am from Terra? The universe is full of beings and full of what we can loosely call Humans. Most are rather peaceful by choice.  Second, as you so carefully pointed out, a very large and powerful Terran force did jump through their space, without their permission or consent. There was little they could do besides complain. They have since taken steps to make that harder to do, although they certainly can't resist a large powerful fleet. But they have clearly said that should any power occupy their system, they will leave and move elsewhere. They have also gone to some lengths to make sure no ships; Terran, Vilani or Pirate leak through their system to attack others. I imagine you have noted that change, however small. Third, the Reason the Vilani have maintained peace is that they keep their foot on the necks of any who dare think outside the little box that the Vilani have approved and used for the last Centuries, which is why it is a stagnant society.  If for some reason you thought I was here to tell you what you seem to want to hear, Let me disabuse you of that misconception, I am here to tell you what you need to know, whether you like it or not. It's the facts as I understand them.  One person's observations that you asked for. I am a trader and Merchant, not a diplomat. My inability to go through Leikung is a serious impediment to trade for me, I'd like to see it reopened.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 151):

"Hmmph. We do not need your ignorant lectures on Vilani politics! You are not Vilani, and since you stand up for Terrans, you may as well be one. But since you have passed through, what did you call it?  Leaking? Anyway, since you have clearly passed through there since the attack, why do you say the route is closed? Is there another Terran force massing there to stop you?"

21 Aug 2182, Sukun, Supplies: 1000 person-days worth, consume 50/week, current crew: 5+Gloria, $519,213,30

Not to my knowledge, Your forces have forbidden us to jump to Leikung, so we haven't.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 153):

"But you did talk about added actions they had taken since the attack. If you had not been there, how do you know that?"

21 Aug 2182, Sukun, $519,213,30

I have business associates there, radio transmissions are still allowed, if your military information is not mentioned. I would presume your assets monitored our transmissions, so you should be aware of what was said.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 155):

"Radio transmissions take years to travel to other stars, so a ship travelling from there is the only way you could have communicated, that we know of. Do you have some advanced technology, or do you have contacts within the Terran spy network, proving they have had ships through there, and here, recently?"

21 Aug 2182, Sukun, $519,213,300
This message was last edited by the player at 21:35, Tue 07 Sept 2021.

She Laughs... Quite an imagination you have, but talking with travelers on our ships is informative. But sitting here and being insulted accomplishes nothing, let me know if you want me to try and take an Emvoy there or not... Gloria rises to leave.

OOC- I do not beleve she has been in Liekung since Cyril's raid and I don't think she was there when it happened. I know she cursed the stupidity of it (in her view).
This message was last edited by the player at 03:17, Wed 08 Sept 2021.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 157):

Since radio does indeed travel at the speed of light, and one parsec is about 3.2 light years, a 2 parsec jump will take about 7 years, give or take a year, each way. So his statement is accurate.

Jump drives work by taking the ship into a different dimension, known as the hyperspace dimension, to get around this. Hence the speed of messages is usually the speed of the fastest ship...on the ship!

She would have learnt this information from Argon, I suspect. But how much of that trip she want to tell...will let you edit the last post, if you wish.

Else the Vilani will be non-committal for now, seeming to disagree among themselves.

21 Aug 2182, Sukun, $519,213,300

I updated it.
She leaves as she came in, wondering why she was brought here anyway. She'll ask Bjorn as soon as she can with out being overheard or causing a stir.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 159):

As you leave, one of the younger commanders comments

"Well, good to know it is an option, anyway. Perhaps we can talk to them to find out what we can do to alleviate their concerns...I doubt we want to extend our military any further."

The comment seems to draw consternation from the older commander, but he says nothing else, and you are free to leave.

21 Aug 2182, Sukun, $519,213,300

And she does, with or without Bjorn.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 161):

Bjorn follows her out after taking his leave. Once outside, he comments that it probably went as well as could be expected.

21 Aug 2182, Sukun, $519,213,300

She turns to look at him and raises her right eyebrow You knew it would be like that? seriously? And said nothing?
She turns and storms off, getting a ride to her shuttle and going back to the factory.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 163):

"I knew it could be, but I did not know he would have been hard- headed. But the others...hey, can we discuss this like adults?" as you are storming away.

21 Aug 2182, Sukun, $519,213,300

She'll call him later, after she cools a bit. She felt set up and is very defensive. No one rose to her defense. She is inclined to let them rot in their Vilani world.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 165):

Bjorn responds a bit cooly. He felt you did not need defending, as you seemed to do well on your own. There was disagreement between the leaders who you spoke to, and your discussion opened up the divisions a little further.

21 Aug 2182, Sukun, $519,213,300

A cool response doesn't genrate any warmth in return. OK, lets see what happens.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 167):

On getting a cool response, he asks what your involvement with Terrans really was.

21 Aug 2182, Sukun, $519,213,300

Long pause ... You think I lied to them?

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 169):

"I don't know what to think. Your reaction was stronger than I would anticipate, even from a Kimshigur. You were very defensive of those that just raided a lot of your customers."

He is quiet a d thoughtful.

21 Aug 2182, Sukun, $519,213,300

I was ? I thought it was presumptuous to think I had anything to do with it.  It's like saying you are guilty because the Vilani in Dingir attacked Terra. I think it was a dumb, no stupid attack to make!  It didn't do anything positive, no great loss to Kidashi or wherever the leaders are, just useless violence that hurt  lot of innocents. How do you defend that?

Gloria perceives that her relationship with Bjorn is probably done for at this point.  He'd never accept her innocence if he knew the truth.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 171):

The fact she herself conducted raids would be a deal-breaker if he ever found out, you are pretty sure.

"Their actions were not defendable. But I was surprised at your attack on the Vilani way of doing things. You really can't see why the Vilani way of keeping the peace is so valuable?"

21 Aug 2182, Sukun, $519,213,300

Oh, I can see keeping the peace as very valuable, But keeping it at gun point is excessive. Regardless, if there is a change in attitude, let me know.

Oh, well... sometimes you just can't win. It was fun while it lasted.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 173):

"The Vilani do not keep peace at gunpoint by any means. Wait, if you grew up in almost any Vilani colony, you would know that. Where did you say you grew up again?"

Sleeping with the enemy has its risks!

21 Aug 2182, Sukun, $519,213,300

Sigh... she again relates being from a distant sytem he has no knowledge of that is neither Terran nor Vilani, although people of both groups live there peacably.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 175):

"There is a system with both Terrans and Vilani? You are from Nusku?"

21 Aug 2182, Sukun, $519,213,300

She Laughs, Oh No, I only know of Nusku from charts and the news, I come from a system we call Averenth far to the rimward and spinward from here. I haven't been there is some 18 years anyway.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 177):

You hear him typing away.

"That is not a Vilani system...so you are Terran? Or it is known by another name? What is the chart name?"

It is Averenth on our charts and it is not on Vilani charts. As for being Terran ... so anyone who isn't Vilani is Terran? Not the way we think of things. I feel more Kimashargur than Terran.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 179):

"The only barbarians with jump drives in these sectors are Terrans, though there are rumours of a strange race of living rocks they work with. But there are no other known humans with jump drives outside our borders. Who you are is starting to worry me."

I see, it is your lack of experience outside your little portion of the universe. Jump drives are common enough, some are copies of Vilani drives from those who ran from the Vilani, some are developments of others, the Terran drive was a copy of the Vilani drive at first, I believe. But the Labrysians made their own and there are others who did as well.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 181):

"The who? Labysans? Just how much time have you spent outside the Empire?"

Eh, oh I don't know, maybe 20 or 25 years.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 183):

"That is much more than a quick trip! Where was that, exactly?"

21 Aug 2182, Sukun, $519,213,300

Bjorn, I WAS BORN outside the Empire... so there is some 17 years of the time, since then I have traveled and saved money to be able to start my business here.  It's been touch and go, but it has worked well enough. With luck, we can be mostly debt free in a few years.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 185):

"Yeah, I am struggling with that. You would have to be Barbarian, likely a Terran colonist, or from an unknown Kimshigar colony that managed to escape detection for 1000 years to be born outside the Empire. You came with a LOT of cash, have a lot of Terran connections and can clearly travel beyond where out tape drives can go and have no local loans, so where did you get your loans and that kind of technology? I appreciate what you have been able to do for my father, but I would like some honesty, as things do not seem to add up. If you are Terran, I can live with that, but unless you are honest with me, you are likely to get us both into trouble as others start to ask these questions as well."

21 Aug 2182, Sukun, $519,213,300
This message was last edited by the player at 04:03, Sun 19 Sept 2021.

Sigh ... I am a spacer, I think I have both Vilani and Terran blood, but it's old and back a ways. I managed to save up a good bunch of money from my merchant days, and one trip was especially lucrative as the place we landed had just had some serious volcanic upheavals. I expected to make a profit of about 40%, but everyone was bidding  over everyone else for the computers, food, and vehicles we had. Eventually the government itself stepped in and I got something like 240% profit. I did a quick round trip to bring more there, but others had heard and the market was down, Still I made almost a 100% profit. I took it in rare earths and Minerals that they mined and had in profusion, while others took cash.  I took a chance and went to Girii, who was very happy to pay me very well for those items.  I spoke with some wealthy merchants, in Girii about getting a foot hold here, they agreed to match my funds, so I have a reasonable amount of cash. It has been difficult to pay them back in a timely manner, but they know and they understand that I am making every effort. I have managed to pay back just under a third of what I owe and they are quite interested in marketing things here, like medical equipment; had you noticed we have a new hospital? and  small class learning what you call Terran medicine? The biggest trouble is all the higher ups think I am some sort of Terran agent. Now why the Terrans would pay me to come here, build a factory, introduce better medicine, and improve trade escapes me. What secrets does Sukun have that would concern the Terrans? Nothing I know of, it's a backwater area far from the where the battles are being fought and It is not strategically located to harm Dingir ... basically, there is no reason for Terra to give a damn about this place, but your leaders think they are on the front edge of the war with Terra, I do not get it.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 187):

Lets shorten this with an opposed influence roll of your choice...he is dubious, though you explanation does make some sense there are still holes regarding your origin that concern him. Leave it up to the dice and then we will move on.

21 Aug 2182, Sukun, $519,213,300

Well I am tiring of the discussion, which is now over barring super roll on your part.



15:26, Today: Gloria Flake rolled 3 using 3d6 with rolls of 1,1,1.  Diplomacy.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 189):

Yes, sensed that, hence the call to resolve it with a roll, which you blitzed.

You put his mind at easy, identifying a small colony on the outskirts of Girii that had recently been discovered, Tralp. It is a known colony recently under the influence of Girii and known by the Vilani, and hence you are able to put his mind at ease.

You leave, knowing that whilst you could continue with him, it may just be a matter of time. But for now you make a mental note to remember the name of the colony!

21 Aug 2182, Sukun, $519,213,300

I'll try... but she is going to distance herself from Bjorn, he seemed nice and she'd have liked to carry on with him in a different situation. Still, telling him she was Captain Flake of the Terran Navy would have made it hard for him to swallow.

Do I get a plus for this superb performance?
I had been thinking of Nova Pacifica Myself, or one of the other worlds out that way and recently brought to light.
This message was last edited by the player at 22:49, Mon 20 Sept 2021.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 191):

You do get an extra level of Diplomacy (already added). Those other worlds are under Terran command, and that would have you labelled a Terran in a heartbeat!

But yes, if he knew you commanded a Terran warship responsible for raiding Vilani sectors, there would be issues!

21 Aug 2182, Sukun, $519,213,300

Gee... did I do that?

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 193):

Do you want to check your (or my) memory? You were one of Silverbeards better Captains...after working with Cyril.

Where to from here?

21 Aug 2182, Sukun, $519,213,300

Oh, I wasn't thinking that was as a Terran officer, But Ceti-Command was.
Anyway, We keep building until relieved by someone new I suppose.
Ceti-Command and Admiral Freelunder run my show, but we have been supporing the dissidents all this time with weapons, vehicles and know how. We have exported some of this to Dzosuiken as well. We have spent a BUNCH of money, but do seem to have an effective information gathering  operation. exporting it has been hard, but is done from the Girii run generally.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 195):

For now, Nusku is besieged, and Ceti-Command and Chrysolite have managed to draw significant resources to this neck of the woods, and is playing it quiet for fear of drawing enough heat that Command might decide decisive action is required.

Your intelligence network is well established, working through Girii and the scouts, and begins bringing in news from a Terran perspective. Kidashi cries for reinforcements are finally being heard, drawing vital units away from Nusku and resulting in containment rather than a counter-attack.

Your relationship with Bjorn continues to reveal considerable divisions within leadership, from the sector court all the way down to the local Sukun governance. Some want to embrace the new Terran ways, while others insist on maintaining the Vilani ways. However, the most significant events during the month following the visit to the capital is the ambush of the Dishaan battallion at a little oasis called Kashmir.

Kashmir is a small oasis town on the overland trading route to the Hokum mines from the capital, but it is also a hotbed of dissatisfaction. Several attacks on the Dishaan in the capital were traced to individuals who were traced back to this town, so a punitive raid was planned. With a population of just 120, the Dishaan Battalion of nearly 800 (all that remained of this battalion) should have had no trouble bringing the town to heel. But the terrain was desert, and control of water was critical, a factor overlooked by the Shigniid Dir Ugkin commanders. When Gatling lasers were used to bring most the G-Carriers carrying the troops down about 100 miles short of the town, the gruelling desert trek turned the quick raid into a desert slog the Dishaan were ill prepared for. Over the course of the next week, the local populace were ingenious in the use of very heavy weapons to wear the attacking force down. Thought the raid finally succeeded is destroying much of the town's structure, they lost 600 Dishaan in the process.

As a result, the remaining 200 have been taken from the battalion, and the battalion disbanded and sent to defend Sikigi, a decision very popular with the locals. Local arms sales have slowed in the week since then.

21 Oct 2182, Sukun, $519,213,300

Lt Gardner and I will discuss what we can send to assist  the residents of Kashmir without arrousing any aanger in the capital ... perhaps some medical aid in trucks.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 197):

"It is unlikely any aid to Kashmir will not anger the capital, given their losses there, though if it can be offered in such a way as to gain control over the region to stop them going completely rogue may be advantageous. Medical aid would be best in that case...but it will need some delicate diplomacy in the Capital to pull that off."

21 Oct 2182, Sukun, $519,213,300

We can treat the Dishaan as well, then send them to the capital for further medical care. Don't expect to find a whole lot of them and will probably need to put them out before treating.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 199):

"Unlikely that there will be any Dishaan survivors. The locals will have made sure of that by the time we get there."

21 Oct 2182, Sukun, $519,213,300

Most likely true ... but we can say we tried. Maybe treated one but he died regardless.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 201):

"The Dishaan are hated, but there may be non-dishaan members you may have a better chance with if a token effort is what you are aiming for. Since most of the weapons were sold by us, though and disarming them is what they will be wanting in the capital, we have conflicting interests..."

21 Oct 2182, Sukun, $519,213,300

Weapons? What weapons? whoever did this ambush was long gone as best we could tell. The village was certainly aggitated, but not threatening when they realized wewere rendering mdical aid.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 203):

"There were some survivors, and they had reports of heavy weapons hitting them. Any investigation will reveal the same..."

21 Oct 2182, Sukun, $519,213,300

OK, so we shouldn't render aid? We have no control over the attack, we do have first rate medical care, are we wrong to offer it?
If they run the residents of Kashmir off, they will just set up some place new. If they seize them, I'd expect a lot more hostility.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 205):

"Yes, as nasty as it sounds, we need to be very careful offering aid. They did just smash an Imperial battalion, so aiding them might be seen as siding with rebels. We might be able to offer some aid, either subtly, or with the blessing of the planetary parliament. The latter might be hard to obtain, unless we can broker some agreement in which the government saves face and maintains control, at least in theory, while the town is not going to be open to any form of retribution...and we do not want any investigation, since it has a chance o lead straight back to us!"

OK, so we do nothing except provide supplies to any who seek them I suppose.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 207):

"Yeah, that is the lower risk approach. I can arrange to send a few unmarked trucks up that way loaded with supplies, and driven by folk I never met...from the scouts.

Might be better to let them help out, and we stay at a safe distance for now..."

OK, Fine by me, I have plenty of other things to do...

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 209):

"Ok. Like what?"

21 Oct 2182, Sukun, $519,213,300
This message was last edited by the GM at 22:59, Fri 24 Sept 2021.

Umm David. I am running a rather large and diversified company at this point.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 211):

"Well, sure. But to be sure, the company is basically running itself. What do you plan on doing now?"

21 Oct 2182, Sukun, $519,213,300

Guide it and look for new opportunities. Did you have something else in mind?

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 213):

"Between the criminals and the rebels here, it is pretty lively.

The Terran scouts report that there is a planet in the Khishirii system that, though Barren, can support life. They are looking at establishing a base there. Perhaps worth checking out to see if you can legally claim it, as there is no current official population there."

21 Oct 2182, Sukun, $519,213,300

[Private to GM: Planet is 5,000 miles in dia, barren with 30% water, thin breathable atmosphere. Gas Giant satellite, monster tides]
This message was last edited by the GM at 04:40, Sun 26 Sept 2021.

Might be able to, what's the map ID number and subsector, I am not familiar with Kishirii.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 215):

"It is 2 sectors coreward from here... not so hard to find.", system 0121

21 Oct 2182, Sukun, $519,213,300

So close? I just assumed those were all in habited. It maybe a good place to work from, we will have to see what secrets it holds, as normally the Vilani do not pass over habitable locations.  I wonder how we claim it... beside occupying it with a horde or two. I'll get a ship together to see what we find. I'll have SLIPPER readied and of couse SPIRIT will be carried for this run.


So "Barren" means nothing, or just nothing human created? If totally barren, it's going to require a bit more work...if it has plants and some life, that increases it's potential habitability.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 217):

"It is barren, with no obvious life and far from a major system so the Vilani can easily overlook it, but yes, an expedition to investigate it would be in order. You could even do it officially, looking ostensibly for minerals, to justify transport to and from the system. Establishing mining base would be sufficient, though you do not want to claim it officially as that would require a Vilani government to be set up.

Plant life would be a good start to, but you may have to set up an entire ecosystem."

21 Oct 2182, Sukun, $519,213,300

Hmmm, that may ruire some care. But I can take a botanist along, as well as a geoligist and some mineral and mining expertise. I'll get a team worked up. Anything else around here we need to know about?

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 219):

"Well, the local organised crime around here are not happy about being beaten up, and are making things difficult, trying to antagonize authorities against us, and we are using locals to try to placate the government and deal with them. But I think I can handle that, unless you want to and I look into this new planet proposal..."

21 Oct 2182, Sukun, $519,213,300

Anything we can do to get them under the authorities thumb? Maybe make them look like they supported the Kashmir attacks? Probably a bit late to plant their weapons though.  I'd like to do the planet review and get away for a while. I don't want Bjorn trying to contact me for a bit.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 221):

"I will see what can be done about the criminals. Perhaps they need a change in leadership. Why don't you go through the inventory of what you will need and prepare for your trip?"

21 Oct 2182, Sukun, $519,213,300

I intend to, but do keep me advised before you do anything as we can't risk it backfiring.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 223):

"You will not be the only one to suffer if it does. We will keep you posted."

What preparations do you make?

21 Oct 2182, Sukun, $519,213,300

Well I mentioned getting the botanist and geologist, a mining expert... their needed equipement, normal survival stuff. Mind is in wedding planning more than ship trip planning.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 225):

"Wedding planning? Are you getting married?"

21 Oct 2182, Sukun, $519,213,300

In reply to LT David Gardner (msg # 226):

No You are, I've got your spouse choices down to two...

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 227):

"Unless you are one of them, you have no say it that!" he laughs...

Not me! Henrietta Hooknose or Thelma Thunderthighs. Helga Hamhocks is still posible.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 229):

He laughs. "Yeah, right.

Back to planning your trip, and I will get back to planning the local criminal intrigue...You have a look over your ship and detail what you want, I will be busy with the local stuff. See you tomorrow."

He heads out the door to sort out the criminal scene.

21 Oct 2182, Sukun, $519,213,300

She heads over to the ship after arranging for the specialists/scientists she thinks they will need.
She gos over a full preflight check with the pilot and engiineer.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 231):

The specialists and the engineer recommend about $5 million worth of gear, including a 6x6 truck with a laser Gatling, just in case, needing 10 crew positions and 8 dTons of space total. They have weapons, survival equipment, surveying equipment and 4 surveyors and food for 3 months.

26 Oct 2182, Sukun, $519,213,300

OK, Let's down size a little, we are not staying that long this trip; 4x4 truck and things needed for a week long survey of the planet.
I am taking a small ship not a cargo vessel.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 233):

They argue that they should plan for a longer stay in case they get stuck there for whatever reason. Uncertain of other parties, such as pirates that could see this as an opportunity to move in, or being uncertain of hostile local wildlife, they suggest they should take the weapons. Essentially you find them all arguing for all the kit, but they can tone down supplies as long as the ship is sent for more when you arrive. Reducing the vehicle to a 4x4 vehicle, just large enough for the weapon, reduces the required space needed to match Slipper, but it is a tight fit, and you will need to be resupplied within 3 weeks. Cost is mainly for gear, and remains unchanged.

26 Oct 2182, Sukun, $519,213,300

OK, so this is still a very tight fit. My goal was a 1 week review, not an indepth study. However if we find the place habitable, we can use a Hero to drop a bigger and more permanent set up there. Right now I want t confirm that the basics for life are available ... or was that already established?

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 235):

No, nothing really established at this stage, so yes, that does make it a tight fit. How do you want to manage the risk?

26 Oct 2182, Sukun, $519,213,300

Which risk? Sorry, I am very tired and not mentally following so well. Wedding was over last night, clean up is ongoing.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 237):

All, good, take your time. I trust the weddings went well!

The risk is the small amount of food you have, and the time taken to send the ship for more, during which time you would be planetside without support.

26 Oct 2182, Sukun, $519,213,300
This message was last edited by the GM at 04:43, Mon 11 Oct 2021.

Ah... NO!  The ship will leave with everyone aboard. We are not putting down a settlement on this trip. Next trip does that when we are more comfortable with the planets ability to support life.

Wedding went fairly well due to the Bride's maids and groomsmen doing a lot of behind the scenes magic.

We are whiped, with the plus of very high winds last night and a power outage which left the house stuffy (not a good idea to open windows to 40-60 MPH gusts. That provides a ton of dust and stuff as well as blowing over lamps and who knows what else.).
This message was last edited by the player at 02:50, Wed 13 Oct 2021.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 239):

Ah, great to hear! We are getting out of COVID now, and things are getting busy!

"Well, that will very much limit the amount of research we can do. Once we determine it is safe to do so, we would request a proper research base put in to check it out properly, or there is not much point to this exercise."

26 Oct 2182, Sukun, $519,213,300
This message was last edited by the GM at 03:10, Wed 13 Oct 2021.

Well if we are wasting our time, then we push it back a bit until we can get a bigger ship to carry stuff in.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 241):

"Should I see what ship we can find?"

26 Oct 2182, Sukun, $519,213,300

I was thinking to pull one of ours for a bit, but go ahead and look, looking is cheap.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 243):

It is the next day by the time he gets back to you with what is available. All are unarmed as purchased.

Sharushid Remote Freighter, 40 M Solars, 1000 dTon Flattened Sphere, HT: 8
Originally designed to service planets off the branch lines that needed larger services than Heros could provide, usually for specific large shipments or very important individuals, these craft are capable of aerodynamic flight as well as safe Gas Giant refuelling, making them excellent for servicing remote locations.
They are capable of significant weapons, making the requirement for an escort unnecessary in times of peace, and they are more economical in terms of purchase price per dTon of cargo and better for crew than Heros, but not as good as the larger branch freighters. They also are cheaper to run per dTon of cargo than the smaller vessels.
This vessel is 123 years, and may require extensive repairs. It is currently at Sukun.
(2.1G/move:2069.5, dDR: 10, dHP: 50, Cargo Space:441 dTons, Fuel:200 dTons (2 Parsecs), SM:+10)
Docking for 2x Ships Boat, 1 Workshops, 1 Sickbays
8x Hardpoints, Crew:24, PAX: 20 Standard, 10 First, 5 Luxury

Ikaakur Hospital Ship, 500 M Solars, 800 dTon Flattened Sphere
Hailing from the days when the Vilani were explorers, these Hospital ships were designed to assist in dealing with the many plagues that came with meeting new worlds. A fleet of 50 to 100 of these would travel to stricken worlds, combining their laboratories to resolve the problem. There are calls to rebuild the fleet in the light of meeting with Terrans.
This was build last year, and is surplus to requirements and hence being sold off from Kidashi. Price includes delivery and small craft.
(2.39G/move:2229, dDR: 50, dHP: 70, Cargo Space: 20 dTons, Fuel: 2 Parsecs, SM:+10)
Crew:119 (50 medical specialists), Life support: 171
10 Workshops, 50 Bed Hospital, 2 Laboritories
1x Ships Boat (Standard), 1x Ships Boat (Cargo), 1x Ships Boat (Fuel), 2x Ships Boat (Base)
Weapons: 7x Hardpoints

There is also a 46 year old Regular Hero for 34 Million (HT: 9), and a 56 year old Iiken Cargo courier for 23 Million (HT: 9) that are available at Sukun, the former being sold by a retiring merchant and the last being sold by a second hand ship dealer.

27 Oct 2182, Sukun, $519,213,300
This message was last edited by the GM at 06:23, Thu 14 Oct 2021.

The Old Sharushid is very intriguing, as it could pick up one of our routes, particularly the one to Girii... let's look into how much repair it needs and factor that into the cost.

The Hospital ship isn't such a good fit, but might prove useful at another time. 500 Million Solars is more than I want to spend.

The Hero is worth a look, the Iken might be useful, but we have several now and seem to need a bit more cargo/passenger capacity.
We are trying to grow the company. The Hero might be a good fit for his jaunt to Khishirri.

How are our profits looking?

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 245):

The volume of trade has slowly picked up to the point that the Hero and the Van working the rimward route is at capacity most of the time, and is making a small profit. The route coreward is less profitable, and is usually supported by the rimward route. Both routes cover maintenance. The newest route to Girii is loosing money, and requires support for now.

The local businesses are borderline from a legitimate perspective, even loosing a little. But the black market side of things is booming.

The Old Sharushid will need at least 50 Million to be running sort of reliably, but really needs 200 million over the long term to replace the power plant, which is very old and the source of most of the problems. But this might be plausible through operations. It will cost M$24 to equip it with 3 Beam for each turret, plus another $50 million to upgrade the power plant enough to run the Beams. This will also add to redundancy, but reduce cargo space a little. Overall, $124 million will see it armed and with sufficient reliability to operate, or $50 million just to see it operating.

27 Oct 2182, Sukun, $519,213,300
This message was last edited by the GM at 22:28, Thu 14 Oct 2021.

I wonder if my friend in Dzosuiken could fix it a bit cheaper if we can safely get it there. A used power plant in much better condition would be fine. Three turrets are pretty much a necessity.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 247):

You would have to take it to him to see. The turrets can be fitted with three Missile launchers for $2.25 million, or three Beams for $3 million each. However, beans need more power...and the reactors are the biggest issue.

But first, the purchase, before you can take it anywhere.

27 Oct 2182, Sukun, $519,213,300

[Private to GM: 2nd Hand Shanshurid Branch freight reactor, worth 90 Million, power 16 Beams, or 8 Beams and 16 Pulse]
This message was last edited by the GM at 22:13, Fri 15 Oct 2021.

In reply to Fate (msg # 248):

Yes, of course, and we go over it to avoid surprises. We also look to dicker andperhaps barter some thing we make as a part of the deal.

[Private to GM: 11:43, Today: Gloria Flake rolled 9 using 3d6 with rolls of 2,4,3.  merchant. made by 3.]

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 249):

The previous owner is a mineral exploration company that has been able to upgrade, and has purchased a replacement. They are not likely in the market for weapons, but you never know. You want to try them?

They will go to $36 million when you point out the state of the reactor. What are you paying for now?

27 Oct 2182, Sukun, $519,213,300

But trucks and some medical things would be a value to them. I expect explosives might be as well as laser tools to create bore holes.
We could make a long term agreement for the trucks they surely need and good medical support at our facility as well as supplies and perhaps some refresher training for the medical types.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 251):

Yes, they would, but they are buying them from you anyway, so it is not in your interest to reduce the price any more than you do.

The idea of a long term agreement with you is interesting, but they would prefer to keep it separate from the sale of the old starship in case it breaks down! At least they are honest about it...

27 Oct 2182, Sukun, $519,213,300

OK, We do understand that part ... will they back off the price some? I did do a merchant roll ... scared to do another.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 253):

They did drop to $36 million...(see msg #250)

27 Oct 2182, Sukun, $519,213,300

OK, We'll bite. It seems a reasonable risk.  We buy itand put our guys on it to make it space worthy for the trip to Dzosuiken.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 255):

Sure. You purchase the vessel. What add-on are you wanting to budget for? Do you send cash with them?

29 Oct 2182, Sukun, $519,177,300

Whoa, not so fast, First we make the ship safe enough to take the trip. THEN we go to Dzosuiken, and I am going with my "Checkbook"

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 257):

Ok, mechanically it should make one trip without problems. The sellers will not guarantee more than that. But weapons may not be available there.

29 Oct 2182, Sukun, $519,177,300

Should be fairly safe moving between Sukun and Dzosuiken, shouldn't I?

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 259):

Generally yes. Unless Cyril is about....

We will post a special Cyril spotting shift and move out.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 261):

You arrive at Dzosuiken a week later, moving to your spaceport, which is nearing completion, though it does not look like it. The fusion plant is confirmed as the most pressing issue, and your agent there confirms he knows of a Shashurid branch freighter that recently came to grief through fine pilotage. He has recovered the Fusion reactor and can intall it for $90 million. It is a bit bigger than the one there, and though 60 years old, is in better condition.

06 Nov 2182, Dzosuiken, $519,177,300

Hmmm... a lot of money for a reactor from a wreck! What sort of increase in power does it offer?
Guarantees on the system andinstallation?


Is this my guy in Dzosuiken?

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 263):

Yes, this is your guy here. The reactor is worth twice that new, and this one has been reconditioned to have a reasonable warranty...it provides enough power for 2 Beams and a pulse for all turrets, in addition to all other power requirements.

06 Nov 2182, Dzosuiken, $519,177,300

That sounds reasonable, although Sandcasters in two turrets and a Missile in one, along with the two beams.

OK, with the warranty, we will go with it. What other things can they do for us?

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 265):

They are able to install the new power plant and weapons, for a price, though you will need to purchase the weapons. Changing a pulse for a sandcaster or missile launcher is easy at this point...just buy a different weapon. What other things might you be looking for?

They order the new power plant. The changeout will take a month.

06 Nov 2182, Dzosuiken, $429,177,300
This message was last edited by the GM at 03:00, Wed 20 Oct 2021.

Well the normal computer upgrades to Terran systems behind the obvious Vilani ones. Better ship defenses for the marines, and more marines able to be carried.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg #267):

Ah, increased accommodation they can do, presumably adding cabins for Vilani. Bunks are unusual. Changing the computers would require you getting new computers, but they think they could do the work.

50 Vilani bunks take the space of 100 Terran bunks because they are more spacious, and it would cost $100,000 to install them and the accompanying Life Support systems. I have put up in players ships what a vessel with these modifications would look like. Note the speed...

Stealth precautions would cost an additional $6 million, and would include measures such as engine and drive masking, electromagnetic emission controls and various other measures to make the vessel harder to detect that are common on Terran vessels.

06 Nov 2182, Dzosuiken, $429,177,300
This message was last edited by the GM at 03:00, Wed 20 Oct 2021.

Do note that we did provide him quite a few sets of Terran computers. He should have a complete set, as he shouldn't be selling them to just anyone.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 269):

"Ah, yes. Them...ahem. I do seem to have one set available...forgot about them. $100,000 to install them secretly. So $200,000 for them and the accommodation. Do that, or do you want me to add the weapons as well? Stealth is $6 million, and 16 Beams, 2 Sandcasters, 1 missile and 5 Pulse weapons will be $20 million. $26,200,000 total for the lot. Go ahead?"

Of course, none of your freighters are armed at the moment, something that makes the crews a little nervous.

06 Nov 2182, Dzosuiken, $429,177,300
This message was last edited by the GM at 07:14, Wed 20 Oct 2021.

Yes, and we'll look into arming the other ships, although some are armed from their descriptions last I looked.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 271):

Just some of the smaller ones. Which ones are getting weapons, and what weapons?

06 Nov 2182, Dzosuiken, $429,177,300

Can't do anything right now, next week may be better. I'll be home.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 273):

Yeah, very cool. I have a paper due on Sunday (+10+1 (daylight savings) GMT), so happy to wait!

OK, BUS- Has 2 Hard points, no weapons - Iiken Cargo
VAN- Has 2 Hard points, no weapons  - Hero
TRUCKER - Has 2 Hard points, no weapons - Hero
SLIPPER- 4xBeam, 1xMissile, 1xSandcaster, 'Inspection Shuttle' Spirit - Modified Iiken
        SPIRIT - 1x Gatling Laser
LINER - 4xBeam, 1xMissile, 1xSandcaster - Modified Iiken
TOURER -  2x Beams, 2x Missile, 2x Sandcaster - Modified Scout Iiken

So Bus, Van and Trucker all need two turrets with 4 beams, 1 missile and 1 Sandcaster. Each turret will have 2 beams and a Missile or Sandcaster

Tourer needs to be reconfigured the same configuration as above, which will supply some of the parts for the others.

The Sharushid should have 8 Turrets, 4 with 3 beams, 2x with 2 beams and a Missile and 2x with 2 beams and a Sandcaster

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 275):

Ok. You should bear in mind Hero's have notoriously small fusion plants. You will need to upgrade them to manage beams. Cost $12 mill, 4 dTons of cargo space.

Beam weapons cost $1 mill
Missile launcher cost $0.75 mill
Sandcaster cost $0.25 mill

So $25 mill per small craft, X3
Reconfigure Tourer, $2 mill - $1 mill (assume full price resale, actually saving on purchases above) = $1 mill
$22 mill for the larger craft
Total to arm all craft : $98 mill

Tourer was operated by the scouts, wasn't it?

06 Nov 2182, Dzosuiken, $429,177,300

In reply to Fate (msg # 276):

Tourer is operated by the scouts.

Would using pulse lasers be better on the Heroes? We aren't planning on them being employed in dangerous areas. Sikigii is sort of quiet at this point.

The other ships go to more dangerous places, so need full up beams.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 277):

Yes, pulse weapons use half the power and cost half as much, as well as reducing the power requirements by half as well in both size and cost. Would make sense...

06 Nov 2182, Dzosuiken, $429,177,300

OK, Let's do that.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 279):

Actually, checking my maths, that should be $17 million for the Heroes and $5 mill for bus for a total of $62 mill, but it does reduce to $9 mill with pulse.

Beam weapons cost $1 mill
Missile launcher cost $0.75 mill
Sandcaster cost $0.25 mill

So $5 mill for bus
$9 mill (-2 dTons) for the 2 Heros
Reconfigure Tourer, $2 mill - $1 mill (assume full price resale, actually saving on purchases above) = $1 mill
$22 mill for the larger craft
Total to arm all craft : $46 mill

You place orders for the above. It will take about a month to get all the changes done to all vessels, but the biggest vessel that you bought should be done in a week.

06 Nov 2182, Dzosuiken, $383,177,300

Sounds good, but we need to see some income from all this pretty soon or I'll have to sell myself to Dingir.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 281):

Your income is barely paying for expenses, bearing in mind you are a relatively new business in a time of hardship, and so far growing rapidly. As such, what makes you think Dingir would 'buy' you, when they could just take you?

The modifications and weapons are done to the large new craft. Are you going to put it into service, and use one of the Heros for the exploratory mission?

13 Nov 2182, Dzosuiken, $383,177,300

I was planning to, which route could use the extra size?
Even considered replacing Tourer with it... but there may not be enough trade to justify that yet.

Whichever Ship is replaced will get a complete overhaul and minor conversion to add things like Terran Computers as plug in modules.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 283):

The rimward route, Dzosuiken, Sikigi, Kamuukshar and back to Sukun, is regularly over capacity, and the other vessels often help out.

Tourer is no-where near capacity yet, though another ship to increase the frequency may help with that. The scouts do not officially change the name, opting instead to use the non-descript number instead.

I think from memory you only brought enough computers for one more ship modification. You could send one of them back for more, of course.

13 Nov 2182, Dzosuiken, $383,177,300

We'll use that set on the Hero Explorer, and get Tourer to acquire some from AK Enterprises.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 285):

You used them on the new 1000 dTon craft. But yes, the Tourer can pick up a couple more sets from Girii. Would be a long order process, but perfectly feasible! Price would be about double, and 6 month wait time. But that is planning ahead...

What is happening in the meantime?

13 Nov 2182, Dzosuiken, $383,177,300

OK, I thought you were saying that an additional set was still available.

Should the bigwigs get their heads out of their asses, we might be able to do it that way both cheaper and faster.
A thought is using the new 1,000 tonner to drop off stuff at Khishirii and then replace the Hero, which can, in turn, keep that location supplied easily.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 287):

That would work, though even an Iiken could keep the place supplied. You wanted a vessel there though the whole time.

13 Nov 2182, Dzosuiken, $383,177,300

I did, no, they wanted a vessel there all the time. We can pull the Iken off the Shurashana route and use the  Hero, put that Iken for their resupply ship.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 289):

You have a lot of options, but the ships are yours. The explorers want some craft to live in, but it does not have to be a starship. Let me know what you want to do.

13 Nov 2182, Dzosuiken, $383,177,300

Agreed, not sure what sort of options we have for a "Mobile home" sort of container we can put down for them.
I expect the Big ship will be able to deliver it easily. We will christen the big ship as "Banana Boat" since it carries cargo and passengers.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 291):

One option would be to make 'container homes' to be transported. That would probably be cheapest, though you may have to travel back to Sukun to design that. Another would be to buy a very old starship and fly it there on a one way trip. Such a starship could cost about 6 million for a very old Hero, plus maybe another couple of million to have it fitted out with a basis labs, life support, etc. Or you could make a few trucks to be fitted out as mobile homes for about $400,000 per truck, accommodating 2 scientists per truck, so want about 5 trucks as a minimum, prefer 10 for additional storage space.

13 Nov 2182, Dzosuiken, $383,177,300

Trucks are cheaper, and not all of them need to cost $400k, since some will just be storage. We can also make a trailer for the same mobile home look and powered by the truck as well. A couple of the trailers can be used for Labs etc. too. so 4 or 5 trucks with trailers should cover the needs. We can throw in a spare generator or so.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 293):

A storage truck still needs to be gastight for this purpose, and will cost $300,000 with the appropriate modification. The modifications include an airlock. For a requested survey team of 10, you would want 5 trucks worth $400,000 ($2 mill) plus 5 storage trucks worth $300,000, for a total cost of $3.5 mill. The trucks have their own fusion plants, and spares would be part of supplies.

13 Nov 2182, Dzosuiken, $383,177,300

You re just trying to get me to spend lots of money!!

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 295):

I am pretty sure it is part of GM job description! But I let you earn it first! Of course, if you want things done right, you need to spend a lot!

13 Nov 2182, Dzosuiken, $383,177,300

But I have to please Government bean counters.   Do the 3.5 Mill... keep the story going.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 297):

You give directions for the new trucks. Transport will require 100 dTons of space, plus some additional supply containers, and take a month.

So have the new one transport take you there, and a smaller craft resupply you monthly? Will you go with them?

13 Dec 2182, Dzosuiken, $379,677,300

Yup, Banana Boat takes them, I go aboard it, and a smaller ship with handle resupply.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 299):

You arrive at the planet. It is a desolate, dry desert planet with just 30% of the surface covered by water. Plant life exists only is some places, with rolling sand dunes in many other locations, and rock desert over much of the rest of the surface. There are a number of active volcanoes.

Do you go with the exploration team?

20 Dec 2182, Khishirii, $379,677,300

No, I stay with the ship in orbit after dropping off the supplies/trucks etc.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 301):

And then transfer to the next Iiken when it comes?

20 Dec 2182, Khishirii, $379,677,300

No, Banana Boat is holding long eneough to ensure they are set up and things are working.  No more than a week later, we either pick up everyne for whatever reason says we can't leave them or we head out and the Iiken should be there by then or shortly there after.
Banana Boat is not staying here.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 303):

Right.

Despite the inhospitable appearance, they soon report some underground caves in the rocks that seem friendly enough. Edible life forms are found there, and they are happy to make a base, requesting some earthworking equipment.

Where are you planning to be?

20 Dec 2182, Khishirii, $379,677,300

Gloria is the leader, so she needs to be where things are happening.
This seesmt o be going well, so we head back to get  some earth moving equipment, which will hopfully fit in an IIken.
If not, then the Hero makes the next supply trip.

I am checking on things at Sukun and trying too see what , if anything, has happened with the diplomatic visit to Leikung.
How is the Hospital doing and how is tthe "Medical School" doing?
Any demand for those new medical equipments? We can hopefully acquire them from 'Girii'.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 305):

Earth moving equipment will cost about $1 mill and require 30 dTons of cargo space, so some cargo Iikens can manage, but not other Iiken models.

Since no one else has charts for Leikung, the diplomatic mission has very much stalled.

The hospital is very busy, and is clearly filling a local need. Most of the work is standard for a Vilani remote hospital, but there are a few patients who have needs the local system cannot cater to, though the reputation for resolving them has not really had time to spread.

Giro, it seems, does not have any spare 'new' medical equipment, still struggling to keep up with their own demands, although items can be ordered through the AK office there, with a one year lead time the time you ordered them on Sukun.

28 Dec 2182, Sukun, $379,677,300

Well of course they were coming from AK, we just wantd them stamped as if from Girii.
We will take orders, but with a touch of luck should be able to beat a years delivery.
Of course, being able to go through Liekung would greatly shorten the travel times involved.

We do NOT need a D-9 Cat!!
I am thinking Kubota type tractors at closer to $35-40k.
These weeigh in the 2-3 ton range max and have a lot of attachmnts that would be useful for digging and creating places for the trucks aswell as walk ways, septic systems etc.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 307):

They are asking for a self contained tunneling unit and rock blasting tools, as well as a few smaller electric Kubota types and a pair of dump trucks. Tunneling unit is the expensive bit, as there are not the usual crowd of miners there.

28 Dec 2182, Sukun, $379,677,300

And that is an unexpected request, WHY do they want a tunneling set? They were taskedd to explore and document, not dig mines.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 309):

Life on the inhospitable planet is largely underground, and they believe that they need to establish a base to get a stable food and water source.

28 Dec 2182, Sukun, $379,677,300

Right! they live in the trucks for now, we will expend and dig in once we are sure this is a worthwhile place to colonize.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 311):

They are already reporting significant iron ore deposits...and significant underground caverns with poor access. They ask what else you are looking for.

28 Dec 2182, Sukun, $379,677,300

Any potential problems, predators or chemicals? Is the water clean? If so, opening up those caves might be a faster and easier solution to long term housing.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 313):

Water is pristine, likely cleaned by the cave vegetation. There are small predators, some reptile (kind of like Commodo dragons or Goannas) as well as numerous rodent-like creatures that feed on the underground vegetation. Nothing else has been seen yet. It is a harsh land, but livable.

8 Dec 2182, Sukun, $379,677,300

How big are these Lizards? Komodo's are unpleasant and grow large with adequate food. We do not wish to become such ;-)
I assume that if they just eat  rodents, they are 3-4 foot long? maybe 12-15 pounds?

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 315):

Yeah, that is generally the size seen. Many are smaller, and there are possibly larger specimens, but 3 ft seems normal. About the size of the komodo dragons or goanas.

8 Dec 2182, Sukun, $379,677,300

3 feet is fine, BUT
The average size of a male Komodo dragon is 8 to 9 feet and about 200 lbs., according to the Smithsonian National Zoological Park, but they can reach a whopping 10 feet (3 meters) in length. Females grow to 6 feet (1.8 m)

So we do not want to see nything like that!!

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 317):

No guarantees...there is still a lot of planet. But I have never heard of them attacking a human...

8 Dec 2182, Sukun, $379,677,300

Well they have, although now most a very careful to stay clear.

OK, so the planet seems useful and not too hostile. I am sure these guys have weapons that will drop a big lizard should the need arise.
Big ship heads back, small supply ship should be here in a day or two.
This message was last edited by the player at 04:03, Mon 15 Nov 2021.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 319):

Ok. You are staying or going?

If going, what are your plans? What would you like Gloria to be doing, given the context?

8 Dec 2182, Sukun, $379,677,300

Gloria goes with the big ship, ensures the supply ship has already gone on and that the Banana Boat gets put on the inner trip.
The Hero is pulled and maintenance down, with checks to make sure it is safe and functional.

She checks again to see if anything has changed in the Government's positions.

We start making a list of desired medical equipment, medicines and specialists we may need.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 321):

You travel back to Sukun and direct things from there. It will take a good month to give a good overhaul and install the new weapons. You get the process started.

The news indicates that there is considerable unrest in the capital, though in the growing city you are based in things are much calmer. The ongoing fight you are having against organised crime (other than your allies) is making the area safer, though the quality of banned substances seems to be giving rise to crimes of opportunity, creating ghettos that contrast with the areas of greater prosperity that you more directly contribute to.

You cannot determine change in government policy from news feeds, but they seem to not be favouring the heavy handed approach.

22 Dec 2182, Sukun, $379,677,300

That's a step in the right direction, no heavy handed is good.

Are these Ghettos in an area we control?
Definitely want to work on supressing the drugs, especially the transportation of them into our areas.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 323):

You have a lot of influence in all of this growing city, but the only area you control, per se, is the immediate area around you, where there is no ghettos due to the good income you provide those you'control'.

The compliant dealers also act as your eyes and sometimes weapons smugglers.

 22 Dec 2182, Sukun, $379,677,300

That's good. Now about these Ghettos, are they close? I want to eliminate these potential problem areas as soon as we can, if they are close to us. If further, it is less of a priority, but still worth trying to improve things.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 325):

They are further from you, for reasons already mentioned. However, they are also excellent distractions for local law enforcement, and many of the dealers work with you. How do you plan to improve them?

22 Dec 2182, Sukun, $379,677,300

Some limited food handouts, improve schools, build clinics for family care. See if we can find/make jobs to raise the standard of living a little.
Basically you need to work or do something to get help.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 327):

Ok. That sounds like a combination of social engineering and money. The Vilani are masters of social engineering, so assume you can find someone to help with that. How much money are you willing to throw at it, and how do you manage those who have been helpful to you whose income you may effect?

22 Dec 2182, Sukun, $379,677,300

We look out for our own and those who help. We'll see if we can't supply other things they could sell like hard to come by drugs.

In reply to Gloria Flake (msg # 329):

There are a couple of combat drugs that are illegal, but few useful drugs will grow in this fry climate. Weapons could be sold illegally... and building industry is picking up for a more legal industry. But increasing prosperity will also bring increasing law enforcement and political scrutiny, as well as greater pressure from 'established' Vilani companies and syndicates. You have avoided this thus far due to the remoteness and pirate activity.

In fact, you are told that with the growing confidence in regional security, the Vland corporations are back, asking questions as to who is behind the new transport company. They are clearly wanting their route back and are starting to apply political pressure to get it.

Medical drugs are available cheaply legally.

22 Dec 2182, Sukun, $379,677,300
This message was last edited by the GM at 05:41, Thu 18 Nov 2021.