The Walkers, updated 9-28-03
 

Though most of you will not remember me, I used to be very active on these Boards. I have always lurked around, but I have once again caught the SE4 bug. So I decided to start up another game tonight with one change to my usual foray...I am going to attempt to enhance my experience with a little story-telling. Now I realize there are many of these threads floating around this board, in fact i enjoy reading most of them myself, but for my sake i think i'll try to keep myself interested in this game by writing a bit. Understand, I have never written like this before, with no due date or pressure, but i think it will be entertaining for myself. Also, understand that my classes here at Princeton start again very soon so I probably won't be able to update as often as I would like, but I will try. So without further ado, i present the first installment of my tale...please, criticisms encouraged

Prologue

So many years have gone before my time, and there is so much to tell. Perhaps I should simply start from the beginning. Yes, that would be the wisest place to start, for wisdom is the virtue prized above all else in our society, so indeed the beginning is where I must start.
Our glorious civilization has been in existence for 8,400 years by our records, though some scholars claim that we were conceived further still in time. However, I don’t believe I can assert that our civilization can lay a legitimate claim to that long of a heritage. You see, much of our early history is unknown to us, though we are aware of the fact that we were a warring society of sovereign nation states for the first 4000 years of our existence. Many battles were fought, and many of our people died vainly for the pursuit of money, pleasure, and most seductive of all, power. It was directly before the time of the eighth Great War, around 6888 that three powers emerged: the Cindron, the Eldron, and the Vandron. These three peoples had succeeded in consolidating their power and making themselves strong enough to lay claim to complete mastery of our world, though it was not fated that all should Last.
The Cindron hailed from the west. They were a society who thrived on combat and the glory of victory…at any cost. They were an advanced power who made as much use of guile and treachery as they did their physical power. It was the Cindron who ignited the eight and final Great War.
The Eldron made their home in the East. The largest of the powers, though the least advanced, they had more resources then both the Cindron and the Vandron and used this advantage to survive. The Eldron were not risk takers, but made calculated decisions to maximize their gains. They won many key battles early in the war for this reason, though, in the end, they could not stand up to the might of the Cindron.
Finally, the Vandron were caught like a city between two armies, neither of which was concerned about the city’s fate. The Vandron prized wisdom and honor above all else, and vehemently tried to stave off the inevitable onslaught between the Cindron and the Eldron. For the first 5 years their stance of neutrality and cooperation served them well. It was during these 5 years that the Eldron won many victories and looked to have the Cindron defeated. The Vandron urged a peaceful settlement of the conflict and litigated a truce between the two powers, but the Cindron’s victory would not be denied.
As the peace summit came to a close, a lone Cindron death squad succeeded in igniting a single thermonuclear weapon and in the process destroyed the Eldron High Command and any hope of a peaceful end to the Great War. The use of these weapons had been Banned since the close of the fifth Great War, and both sides had abided by these commandments…until now.
The loss of their High Command sent the Eldron into a precipitous spiral downward. None had the wherewithal to rise up and lead the people, let alone organize an adequate defense against the newly embroiled Cindron. The Eldron summarily fell to the onslaught of the Cindron though both sides continued to weaken themselves to the point of dysfunction.
Throughout these middle years of the war the Vandron persisted to sue for peace. Having had their capital city destroyed in the initial thermonuclear bLast, and continually having to scrounge together every resource and penny to sate the thirst of the Cindron, the day drew near when the Vandron would be drawn into the conflict as well. The Eldron were falling and the Cindron was eager to usurp the mantle of total world domination. They struck quickly and overran half of the Vandron’s territory. They continued to push the boundaries further until they were within grasp of terminating the Vandron. It was then that the ever calculating Eldron decided to break their self imposed ban on using their weapons of mass destruction in the hopes of guaranteeing their survival. For they had many more of these weapons then the Cindron did, and succeeded in weakening their enemies enough to drive them back. Having been pressed to action the Vandron then joined forces with the Eldron, but it was to no avail. The Cindron redoubled their efforts and burned with a great fire to quell the world of the taint of the Eldron, and in the 14th year of the war, the Eldron fell. Now the full forces of the Cindron were turned on the fledgling Vandron in the final push for supremacy.
The facts of the final years of the Last Great War are not fully understood, but what is known is that as the Vandron were once again falling to the Cindron onslaught a being of immense power and wisdom appeared to lead the Vandron. This was the Almighty, and under his watchful eye the Cindron’s forces stood no chance. Though the Vandron detested violence, the Almighty forged them into an overwhelming force whom the Cindron could not contain. As the Cindron lost battle after battle, they grew more and more desperate. It was decided that the use of their final thermonuclear bombs was the only means of defeating this new and enigmatic force, though they new that their use would render their world unusable. As the weapons fell, so our ethos teaches us, the Almighty transformed his people so that they could survive in this radically changed world, and led his people on to victory over the Cindron. Having defeated the enemy, the Almighty then began to lead the remaining Vandron on a quest to rebuild their embattled world.
Under the leadership of the Almighty, new cities were built and the Vandron established themselves well enough that their future was no longer in doubt. It was at this time that the Almighty left as quickly and quietly as he had appeared. By then, the Almighty had already come to be worshiped by the people, and none doubted that his guidance had saved our world. That was in the year of 6,000. Thereafter, we began keeping track of time anew. We slowly progressed and advanced over the course of 2000 more years without the taint of war. We concentrated on those virtues we held most dear: wisdom, honor, and trust, and in time we surpassed the technological marvels of even the Cindron. However, we have never forgotten that our survival was made possible through the Almighty’s hand, and that knowledge without wisdom is for naught. It is with this creed in mind that I, Lord Chagnon, the 27 Lord of the Vandron, turn our glorious civilizations gaze to the heavens in the hopes that we may one day come face to face with our savior the Almighty. We are the Vandron, the Walkers and we are coming…

[ September 29, 2003, 01:55: Message edited by: chewy027 ]

Re: The Walkers, updated 9-28-03
 

chewy http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon7.gif

nice start of a story... its a bit on the 'too close to alegory in real life' type of thing if you see my meaning

(with all the almighty stuff and 2000 years etc;)

but otherwise, i like trio of powers story line... well done http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon7.gif

and im almost guessing they'll be gas / methane based or something ? http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/tongue.gif (from the nuclear line)

anyway, keep it up, nice to see you back

Re: The Walkers, updated 9-28-03
 

Mind if this gets archived in the Fan Fiction Archives on SpaceEmpires.net?

Re: The Walkers, updated 9-28-03
 

I like it, it has a kind of Tolkienesque mythos to it.

Re: The Walkers, updated 9-28-03
 

Primitive likes it. Primitive wants more.

Remember, there are more important things in life than getting an education. Keeping barbarians carrying big sticks happy might also be wise.
http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon12.gif

Re: The Walkers, updated 9-28-03
 

Fyron...be my guest, though i'll probably edit it a bit to make the flow better and such.

Cirvol...yeah i agree with the alegory impressions, though it wasn't intended. I did the graphics for the vandron originally, and used the race description to build the brief history of the story. As for the 2000 years thing, the game starts in 2400 so it kinda fell into place like that.

Re: The Walkers, updated 9-28-03
 

2400 ~ The Beginning

It is now the year 2400, and I, Lord Chagnon have been leading the Vandron people for the Last 3 years. My predecessor, Lord Mignon, was a great and wise leader whom led our people for over 10 decades. He guided our great civilization into a golden age of advancement where new technologies and theories about our world and our galaxy flowed like the blood of our sacrifices to the Almighty. There is much that we now know, yet we are wise enough to realize that we do not know all. We know that our system is one of 133 in our quadrant that has the potential to contain other planets, yet we are wise enough to realize that there must be thousands more throughout the galaxy. We also know that those systems are situated around the quadrant in small clusters, yet we are wise enough to postulate that there are many paths through these stars. We know that there are other races to be found, yet we know not where they are. It is for this exact reason that we have made our push to reach the stars and continue our search for our savior. You see, a theoretic view of the Almighty has been growing within our society since before the time of Lord Mignon. When Lord Mignon became the 26th Lord of the Vandron he was one of the primary believers in this theory, and thus steered our great civilization by its tenets. The theory holds that the Almighty was not of the Vandron, nor of the Eldron or Cindron. He was, in fact, a being not of this world. With Lord Mignon championing this belief, it soon permeated our society and gave us the determination to find the being responsible for our survival. This is how we know that we are not alone in this galaxy, and why we have made every effort to discover what lies in the Great Beyond.
From our home world, which we renamed Serenity after the Last Great War, we have seen that there are two colonizable planets in our system. Many believe that we will end our search on one of these two planets as the Almighty could have easily come from either of them. The first we call Hope, as it resembles our home world almost exactly, and many think that this is where the Almighty hailed from. Hope is a large gas giant planet with the same carbon dioxide atmosphere composition that we have been adapted to. Before the final Great War, Serenity was a beautiful rock planet with an oxygen rich atmosphere, but after the Cindron’s final attack and the Changing, we now survive most readily on a gas planet of a carbon dioxide composition. It is for this reason that I believe we will not find the Almighty on Hope. For he came to us as our planet once was but no longer is, and he continued with us many years after the cataclysm that changed our world. Therefore, I, and many others, believe that the Almighty could have come from any planet despite its makeup, and so I am resigned to the fact that it may take many years to see our ambitions realized if, indeed, they can be. Nevertheless, reaching Hope has been our main focus for the Last 50 years.
Under the rule of Lord Mignon, we made rapid advances in propulsion technologies and intra-system travel. It was in his final years that we finally developed a working Ion engine prototype that would allow us to finally reach Hope, and secondarily the planet of Rigil. Unfortunately, Lord Mignon was unable to witness the completion of these ambitions as he passed into the realm of the Almighty three years ago. It was at this time that I, Lord Chagnon, received the honor of continuing, indeed, finishing the work that we have so long been focused on. It was with this in mind that I made our first order of business to reach Hope at Last.
From the years 2397-2400 I commissioned 19 scouting missions to Hope and 3 to Rigil. We learned much about each planet, but there were simply too few Vandron to make an adequate search for the Almighty. It was for this reason that in 2400 I commissioned the construction of our people’s first Comet Class colony ship. Upon completion it will be destined for Hope, carrying 34 million colonists within its confines. It is anticipated that with this many Vandron we can establish a self-sustaining colony on Hope and eventually make this world one of many from which we will continue our search for the Almighty, unless of course we do indeed find him upon Hope. I have also harnessed our people’s broiling excitement and focused it on making new advances in the fields of physics and our own unique religious technologies granted us by the Almighty. It is the belief of Vice Lord Junon, the minister of technology, and myself that if we remain vigilant and steadfast in our research we will be able to more easily facilitate and accomplish our goal. It is at this juncture that our present history is being molded through mine, and my chief Vice-Lords decisions ultimately guided by the wisdom and honor that are central to our people. It seems that our people's future is before us.

Re: The Walkers, updated 9-28-03
 

2400.1 – 2400.6 ~ A Simple Decision

Our construction on the first of two comet class colonizers is moving along exactly as planned. It should be completed within the next tenth. At the same time, Vice Lord Junon tells me that he feels that we have indeed reached a new level of expertise in physics and in religious technology, and that this new understanding will allow us to research such wondrous things as energy shields, advanced sensors, and even energy based weaponry, though this final area, that of weaponry, is the least appealing to us Vandron. It is for this reason, and after much deliberation, that we have decided that we will indeed forge ahead in the area of energy shielding to give our vessels greater protection from whatever may lay ahead of us. For this is the way of the Walkers. We have always been slow to aggressive action, but have been content with defending ourselves from the aggressor. Indeed, it is because of this that we were called the Walkers by the Cindron and the Eldron, for we accomplished our ends through the use of wisdom and application instead of brute force. And it is this philosophy that we will continue to use as we venture out into the Great Beyond. The Almighty has taught us that we should be slow to action, however, when action is necessary, we should move swiftly, wisely, and honorably. Ironically, it was during our deliberations as to what we should next focus our research on, that the twelfth of our deep space probes relayed information to us from the edge of our system that demanded immediate and swift action.
We quickly put aside our research deliberations, to the consternation of Vice Lord Junon, and focused our attention on this new information that had been brought to our attention. The following is a recording of some of the discussion that took place immediately thereafter:

“It seems” explained Vice Lord Exnon, the minister of space and exploration, “that the twelfth deep space probe that was sent out in the second tenth of 2398 has discovered a strange anomaly on the far eastern part of our home system.”
“What sort of anomaly?” asked Vice Lord Junon. “Is it of any special significance?”
“Well,” continued Exnon “The anomaly seems to be some sort of elliptical disturbance in the fabric of space itself. While we have seen strange anomalies akin to this before, none produced the same results upon further examination by our probes.”
“What do you mean by that?” asked Vice Lord Defcon, the minister of defense.
“Yes, explain the significance of these ‘results’” Lord Chagnon demanded.
“Of course Chagnon, it seems that as our probe approached the anomaly for closer readings, as it is programmed to, it somehow vanished.” replied Exnon.
“Vanished? What do you mean vanished?” asked Defcon.
“Well, ah, we were tracking the position of the probe from our sensors here on Serenity when the probe suddenly disappeared from our scanners. It doesn’t appear to have been destroyed, nor does it seem that its systems went offline.” answered Exnon as manner-of-fact as possible. “It simply vanished.”
“I see,” replied Defcon “and do you have any possible explanations for this occurrence?”
“Yes, Exnon, what did happen then?” asked Chagnon.
“Well, to the best of our calculations and observations it appears that the probe went inside of the anomaly. That is why it went off of our scanners, but we don’t know if it was indeed destroyed once it entered the confines of the spatial distortion. I think it would be best if we received Lord Junon’s incite into this.” replied Exnon trying to deflect some of the attention from himself.
“Is that what you think?” replied Junon, “Well then I suppose I could make some educated postulations as to what may have happened.”
“Please do,” said Chagnon, “perhaps you can shed some light on this matter.”
“It appears,” Junon went on, “that there are two likely scenarios as to the fate of the probe. The first is that it was indeed destroyed by this anomaly. If that is the case then we should make note of the coordinates of the distortion and avoid it in the future. The second scenario is that the probe was not destroyed, but was affected in some different way by the anomaly. In either case action must be taken as to ascertain the correct outcome of the probe, and the exact properties of this anomaly.”
“Yes, I agree.” said Chagnon, “the question is, what is the wisest course of action to proceed with? Should we continue to send more unmanned probes through, and continue to collect data from here on Serenity or should we commission a manned scout ship to approach the anomaly and give us a precise explanation as to its effects. What do you think Exnon? This seems to be your department.”
“Yes of course Lord Chagnon,” a somewhat shaky Exnon replied, “I would think that the wisest and safest course of action would be to continue to send probes to the anomaly. We could easily outfit some probes with our new ion technology so they would reach the destination within a few tenths.”
“However,” cut in Junon, “while I agree that would seem to be the wisest course of action, we do not yet have the capability to equip these engines on small probes.” Junon’s interest was beginning to pique as to the possibilities of such an anomaly. He went on, “besides, we don’t even know if the probe was initially destroyed.”
“But we don’t know it wasn’t destroyed.” added Defcon.
“Exactly,” put in Chagnon, “I do not think it wise or necessary to endanger the lives of any of our people. However, I also do not believe that the probe was destroyed.”
“Why is that?” inquired Defcon, “There is no evidence indicating it was or wasn’t destroyed.”
“True,” replied Chagnon “yet something leads me to believe that it was not destroyed, and therefore, I have a proposal as the action we should take.”
“Your intuitions have not been wrong before Lord Chagnon,” said Exnon perking up a bit, “perhaps the Almighty has given you a unique insight into the situation.”
“Perhaps,” Chagnon replied with a slight smile, “In any case, I believe the wisest course of action would be to commission a manned scout ship to investigate the anomaly. However, I also believe that the ship should be equipped with its own probes to send into the anomaly before it takes any such action itself.”
“As long as my men aren’t endangered I see no case for objecting to this course of action.” agreed Defcon.
“Yes, I agree as well,” quickly replied Exnon, not wishing to be the Last to speak up “that is a wise decision.”
“If this is the will of the council then I have no qualms against it.” answered Junon as he rolled his eyes.
“Then it is settled then,” Chagnon said as he stood up from the table. “As soon as the second Comet Class colony ship is built we will begin construction on a scout ship to examine the anomaly.”
“May I make one suggestion,” Defcon put in, “perhaps it would be wisest to commission the scout ship before the second Comet. We know what lies ahead of us on Rigil, but the anomaly may hold something completely unexpected. Speaking from a strictly defensive state of mind, I believe we should know what exactly this distortion is before we make plans for anything else.”
“A wise insight Defcon,” Chagnon replied slowly sitting back down, “So it shall be. The scout ship shall be commissioned before the second Comet is built. And if there are no further details to discuss then I believe this meeting is adjourned.”

And so it was. Upon the completion of the first Comet, a Revelation Class scout ship, derived from the escort chassis, was commissioned and built. It was immediately sent to the coordinates of the anomaly to discover once and for all what secrets, if any, this distortion held.
Meanwhile, Comet 1 safely arrived on Hope and the construction of Hope Colony was immediately begun. In addition to the construction, teams of scouts began to scour the land in search of any signs that the Almighty may presently be or may have previously been to this world. Hope was designated a Research World as the initial scans showed that its resource levels were particularly low, a fact that Lord Chagnon was not pleased with. Since the end of the Last Great War, resources had to be closely monitored so as not to waste anything. As it was, Hope would serve the Vandron well in their search for the Almighty, and boost their glorious civilization’s research capacities, which had been performing wonderfully.
The research for the energy shields proved to pass very quickly as an adequate level was reached within only two tenths. These new shields would now be included on the designs for all of their ships, a detail that Vice Lord Defcon saw to personally. At the same time, it was decided, albeit grudgingly, that the best defense would now be a stronger offense, and so a new level of expertise was sought for the projectile weapons currently in use, and the ability to build larger chassis for the fleets starships. Though it was projected to take nearly a year to accomplish these goals, it was decided that it would be the wisest course of research to pursue, in the event that someone or something should meet them.

[ September 02, 2003, 02:36: Message edited by: chewy027 ]

Re: The Walkers, updated 9-28-03
 

2400.6 – 2400.7 ~ Revelations

As the Revelation class scout ship neared the distortion, it began sending probe after probe into its maw. They all simply vanished without a trace leaving no hint that they had ever existed. This information was relayed to the High Command on Serenity, and the decision was made by Lord Chagnon and his councilors to allow the ship itself to approach the anomaly. This was made possible by the decree that all ships in the Vandron’s Navy were to be equipped with real-time communications devices that would transmit everything that the ship saw and everything that the crew spoke. It also allowed for orders to be transmitted as soon as they were decreed by the High Command. In an instant, the Revelation class starship vanished just as quickly as all of the probes. This turn of events was expected. However, what wasn’t expected was the sudden silence of communications and images being broadcast from the ship. Immediately, thoughts of regret swept through the mind of Chagnon: Had he made the wisest decision? Was the crew dead? Why did the transmissions cease? What should he do next? And he could visibly see the effects of the seeming loss on the faces of his comrades. And then, just as suddenly as it had vanished, the Revelation reappeared on their scanners as the anomaly gave a blinding flash as it spewed the little ship forth. For a moment there was silence, and then it was broken by the laughter of Vice Lord Junon.
“It’s a wormhole!” Junon sputtered with glee. “The Almighty be praised! We had thought that wormholes, if possible, could only exist in deep space. This is welcome news indeed.”
It was at this time that the voices of the crew came through over the speakers and the men and women of the tiny Revelation could be heard cheering and laughing for joy, though there was a hint of nervousness present in all of it.
“So what did you see?” asked Vice Lord Exnon. “What was on the other side?”
“What do you mean ‘other side’?” asked Vice Lord Defcon, “what is a ‘wormhole” anyway?”
“It’s a tunnel,” grinned Exnon, “a tunnel to another part of the Great Beyond.”
“He is right” added Junon, “a wormhole is adequately described as a tunnel, though what lays on the other side and how far away it exists are the questions on my mind.”
It was at this time that the crew had received the initial question and was responding.
“Another system,” the commander was saying, “but there were no signs of any planets. Just one dim yellow star, however, that was not all that we found.”
This Last sentence seemed to hang in the air like the incense that was burned to the Almighty.
“What do you mean ‘that was not all that we found.'” quipped Chagnon.
The room was silent until the captain responded, by this time the ship’s crew was also deadly silent. “Well, i…it seems th…that there was another ship in the system, in one of the far eastern parsecs." The captain's nervousness was detectable in his voice. "There was no time for communication, nor time to hide our own presence. If they are as advanced as we, they will have known that we were there. What’s more is that they seemed to already know of the properties of these anomalies, and es…escaped through one as soon as we appeared.”
“Are you sure of this? Are you positive it was another ship, and how do you know they escaped through one of these wormholes of their own?” Defcon spoke the words incredulously.
“W…well sir,” the captain went on. Even more timidly then before, “h…having studied the patterns of the anomalies or w…wormholes as you have called them, we have determined a way to d…detect them, sir. I…in fact, there are two more of these anomalies in our own home s…system. One to the far n…north and one in the south near H…hope, sir. The…therefore, we have de…determined that there was an anomaly in the same vicinity as the ship, and s…surmised that the ship must have passed through it, sir.”
“But are you sure it was a ship your scanners detected?” asked Defcon the disbelief now gone from his voice.
“Y…yes sir.” The captain began to regain his confidence, “It could have been nothing else. It was at a standstill, and then vectored off toward the wormhole, only to vanish an instant later.”
“So what of this system, what is it like, and where were you?” asked Exnon.
“Yes, please describe it to us.” added Junon.
“Like I already said, sir, it is barren. There are no signs of any planets, just the remains of a star, and of course the other wormhole to the far east, and one closer to our position to the North. As for distance, it was perhaps 40 light-years away. It was hard to tell, we were there in an instant, and came back through soon after.”
“So you are unharmed?” asked Chagnon feeling much relieved.
“Yes my lord. Praise be to the Almighty that we were not harmed.”
“But why did the transmissions cease?” asked Defcon.
Junon answered, “Going from a couple parsecs to 40 light-years will have that effect on communications.” And almost as an after thought added to himself, “I will have to devise a way to continue communications utilizing the strange properties of these wormholes.”

After a few more quick questions to the captain, the High Command retired to their deliberation room to decide what should be done. None thought that these wormholes were dangerous, the seemingly unharmed ship and crew proved this, however, with so many of these wormholes no one would take the risk of not further exploring them to be sure that they would not be invaded by a hostile enemy through one of them. The fact that a starship was present in the barren system proved beyond a shadow of a doubt that there was other highly intelligent life to be found, and that the far eastern wormhole held a way to reach beings of this caliber. After a few hours of deliberations many decisions were unanimously agreed upon. First, the Revelation and its crew would travel back into the Churba or barren system, and see if this ship would make another appearance. In the meantime, Vice Lord Junon and his team of scientists would devise a means to continue communications through the wormholes. Secondly, the current research into ship construction would be continued, for the projectile research had ceased, and the research into ship construction was going faster then expected. Vice Lord Defcon’s intuitions about the appearance of the wormholes had proved accurate, and they were now quite pleased that they had prepared thus. Finally, with the completion of the final Comet colony ship, Serenity would begin to mass produce Escort class Angels. They would be equipped with the new projectile weapons and the new shields in the event that they were attacked.
On Hope, the search for the Almighty was winding down as it appeared that there was no trace of any prior inhabitants. With that order of business settled the colonists turned their full attention to the completion of their own space yard, before commencing to build their monstrous research complex comprised of 23 research facilities. Though there were hints of disappointment that the Almighty was not found on Hope, things here were going well, and the High Command believed that in the future Hope would become as indispensable as Serenity itself.

[ September 02, 2003, 17:52: Message edited by: chewy027 ]

Re: The Walkers, updated 9-28-03
 

2400.8 ~ Peace…

For we Vandron, peace is a way of life. We have always tried to look past our differences and made every effort to avoid situations that may lead to violence. This was our way even before the Almighty manifested himself among us. And since the destruction of our enemies on Serenity, we have had nothing but peace for over 2000 years; wisdom, honor, and foresight have prevailed where anger and rash action have failed. At least that was what Captain Mandron was telling himself as his ship, an escort class Revelation scout ship, appeared back in the Churba System where his mission was to make contact with the alien vessel they had seen before.
“I do not like the fact that we have no communications with Serenity.” Mandron thought to himself. “Still it seems prudent, even necessary, that we meet this race and determine if they are friend or foe.”
“Captain!” his first mate Sharnon was saying, “There they are, and they are not moving toward the wormhole, sir.”
“Excellent Sharnon, open all frequencies but make no transmissions.” ordered the Captain. “We will see if they want to communicate with us before we play our hand.”
“A wise decision sir, opening all frequencies,” came the reply.
“Lieutenant Sharnon, I don’t need your opinion on the wisdom of my dec…” but he was cut off by a low muddling sound coming from the speakers.
“What is that?” demanded Mandron.
“It seems to be a transmission coming from the vessel, sir.” answered the communications officer.
“Can we determine what they are saying?” asked Sharnon.
“No ma’am” came the reply. “But the computer is working on making a translation. Their language, or whatever it is they are transmitting, seems to be very different then ours.”
The transmission continued for some time until they could make out what it meant. While the transmission was being decoded, Mandron silently contemplated what the wisest course of action would be. His thoughts were interrupted when the communications officer suddenly spoke up.
“The message says, ‘We are the Aquilaeian Empire. We mean you no harm, though we are curious as to what your intentions are in this system,’ and then it starts over and repeats itself.” said the communications officer with an edge of triumph to his voice.
“Can you make a reply in their tongue?” asked Mandron.
“No, sir.” answered the officer.
“Then transmit to them in our own, ‘We are the Vandron, and we mean only peace.”
Almost as soon as it was sent a reply came back in their own tongue “Greetings Vandron, we are glad to see a fellow race with peaceful intentions. My name is Arguile; I am the captain of this ship.”
“Put me on direct communications, ordered Mandron.” He waited a second and went on, “I am Mandron the captain of this ship, by the authority of the High Command. We have declared our intentions of peace, what are your intentions?”
“We wish for nothing but peace,” the reply came quickly, “and it is for this reason that we have been waiting for you.” Arguile went on, “You see, Mandron, we wish to extend to you an offer of a trade alliance.”
“An alliance?” the surprise was evident in Mandron’s voice.
“Well, more of a trading pact” Arguile went on. “An agreement stating that we will give a certain percentage of our goods to you every tenth, for the same percentage of your goods in return.”
“Why would we want to agree to this ‘trading pact’?” asked Mandron.
“Well, Mandron, we Aquilaeians are much larger then yourselves, and have many friends and enemies. It seems that you are in a disadvantaged position in that we are the first species you have met beside your own, and the one you call the ‘Almighty’.” Arguile said this with a discernable air of superiority that made Mandron’s head swim. How did they know so much about us? What should I do? Make the wisest decision he ordered himself, but as he was telling himself this, his thoughts were again interrupted.
“You are no doubt wondering how we know so much about your people? The answer is simple really, we have been monitoring you for some time now, and we know that the wise decision for you to make will be to agree to the pact.” The words dripped off of Arguile’s tongue. “Besides,” he went on, “why would you not want peace?”
Mandron thought for a moment, “You are right,” answered Mandron, choosing to avoid the tone with witch these Last remarks had been said. They would no doubt greatly benefit from this inflow of new resources, as the amount they were going to receive would more then likely be far less than they would give out. “We agree to this trading pact. But how will we give you our materials if we don’t even know where to send them?”
“Do not worry about that, our ships are already standing by. When our shipment is delivered we will simply pick up our percentage from you.” And with that the transmission abruptly ended, and the Aquilaeian vessel, a ship comparable in size to the Vandron’s own, plunged through the far eastern wormhole and vanished.
“Take us back through the western wormhole.” Mandron ordered, “Prepare a transmission for the High Command. Tell them we have good news.”

Re: The Walkers, updated 9-28-03
 

I'm just a bit curious as to who has taken the time to read any of this, and if i'm taking too much time on these seemingly meaningless points. How can I make this story better? or do you like it as is? Your responses are appreciated.

Re: The Walkers, updated 9-28-03
 

As is, very good story wouldn't change a thing. Keep up the good work.

Now until the next chapter, I guess it's back to the good ol German Scat Porn http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon12.gif

Re: The Walkers, updated 9-28-03
 

I read it, and I like it a lot. Perfect stuff to read at work http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon7.gif

Your writing is very good, with lots of detail. If I should critisize anything it would be that it had too much detail. As the game grows, there is no way you can be that detailed on everything.

Remember your audience: We all played this game dozens (hundreds) of times, so the interesting stuff is whats different in this game from all the other games. Your race, your interaction with other races, and Last but not least the small snippets of artistery you put in. Things like the stuttering captain makes the story much more readable, while the details on how a T/R agreement work.... well, I knew that from before http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon12.gif

Keep up the good work.

Re: The Walkers, updated 9-28-03
 

Thanks for the feedback guys, keeps the incentive up to put time into this. Here's the next installment...

2400.8 continued ~ …and War

Lord Chagnon and his Vice Lords anxiously awaited news from the Revelation they had sent through the wormhole. Each, save Vice Lord Junon, had retired to their personal chambers until word came back that the ship had returned. “Could this be the race from which the Almighty had originated?” Chagnon thought as he paced around his room. “If these wormholes have been in existence for as long as Junon says they were, the Almighty could have easily used them to come to his system and lead our people. I will have to think more on this matter, and keep a clear head so that I will not make a clouded, unwise decision.”
While Lord Chagnon paced around his room, Vice Lord Defcon bent over the star charts and satellite images of the area in which the Churba System was located and the coordinates of the exit wormhole into their home system. “We must be prepared he thought. I don’t like these wormholes one bit, it leaves us vulnerable to an attack from an unknown enemy who may be much powerful then we.” As he thought of this Defcon thought if this, his mood darkened. “I shall have to petition Chagnon to begin construction of an adequate defense fleet. It would be most wise to be prepared.”
Meanwhile, Vice Lord Exnon sat at his desk with thoughts of adventure and far off places coursing through his head. He had gone into the ministry of exploration because he had always loved the vastness and possibility of the Great Beyond. Now that a way had been found that to traverse the star, seemingly in an instant, his dreams could come true. “I wonder what the Churba system looks like.” he mused aloud. “Perhaps these aliens that our little ship spotted will be friendly and share with us their knowledge of our little shared corner of the galaxy. I would like to meet them very much.” and with that his thoughts turned back to the stars.
Of course Junon was hard at work with his team finalizing the details for a prototype communications system to be employed on ships so that their real time communications would function through the wormholes. He had no time for frivolous thoughts, and concentrated on finishing his work so that when the escort class Revelation scout ship reappeared, a probe carrying with it the prototype system could be sent out to meet it. This prototype system was just being loaded onto the probe when Junon was summoned to the High Command conference room to receive an urgent message. “They have returned.” Junon thought. “This must mean that the meeting went well.”
“a t…trade alliance.” Captain Mandron was saying as Vice Lord Junon entered the room. “They will give us resources in exchange for a percentage of ours.”
“Are you authorized to make such an agreement?” demanded Defcon, only enhancing Captain Mandron’s nervousness. “What makes you think that this is the wisest decision? How can you be sure that we will benefit from such a deal? They will bring their ships here?!? How will we know that they will not try something devious?”
“Calm down Defcon,” commanded Lord Chagnon. “Captain Mandron made the right decision. The way of peace is always the right way.”
“Th…thank you sir,” came the sheepish reply from the Captain. “They seemed to know much about us, and intimated that this trade would be bene…” he was cut off by an even more annoyed Defcon.
“They seemed to know…‘much’…about us?” he hung in the word as he spoke it. “What do you mean by that?”
“W…well, s…sir,” an overly intimidated Mandron replied, “it s…seems that they have been studying us f…for some t…time now. They even kn…knew that they were the first race that we had met other then the Al…Almighty.”
“They knew of the Almighty?” Chagnon asked, a bit taken aback.
“Yes, Lord Ch…Chagnon. Though they did n…not say more than that.”
“It seems to me,” Junon chimed in, “that there is nothing we can do now but wait for this shipment of resources.”
“Perhaps it will be beneficial to us, as this Captain Arguile, or whatever his name was, told Mandron,” Exnon said flippantly. “In either case, I would like to meet these Aquilaeians and find out what they know of our quadrant, and any other races they are in contact with.”
“It appears that you will get that chance,” echoed Defcon, “even though I am wary of the situation.”
“So how were you able to communicate with them?” inquired Junon. “Did they speak our language?”
“W…well at first no,” replied the captain, “b…but then they did after we r…replied to them in our own t…tongue.”
“So you would agree that they seem to be more advanced then we?” Junon asked in a rhetorical tone. “By the way, where is your current position?”
“We are a few parsecs outside of the f…far eastern w…wormhole” answered Mandron. “About f…four parsecs from Serenity.”
“Excellent Captain,” returned Junon, “standby to receive a probe that is carrying our new prototype communications system. It should allow us to communicate like this once you pass through the wormhole.”
“And Captain,” added Chagnon, “when that probe arrives, see to it that you return here with it, I would like to debrief you further myself. In the meantime Vice Lords, let us discuss what should be done next.”
And so it was, Captain Mandron returned to Serenity, while Lieutenant Sharnon took control of the Revelation class ship. The new communications system was installed and tested, and worked exactly as designed. Now the real time communiqué between all vessels and Serenity would function even when the ship was in another part of the quadrant. It worked by setting up specialized transmission beacons on either side of the wormholes that could transmit through them without any lag time or interference.
At the same time, and after much deliberation, it was decided that Lieutenant Sharnon would pilot her ship back through their wormhole, and continue through the far northern wormhole in the Churba system, a system that was now recognized to be in the same cluster as the Vandron’s home system. Likewise, Mandron was debriefed fully by Lord Chagnon and commended for his handling of the situation. Because of this, he was elevated to the position of liaison between the Vandron and the Aquilaeians, as well as any other races that may be encountered, effectively making him the minister of diplomacy, and the fourth Vice Lord.
In unrelated events, Hope completed its construction of a space yard, and began construction on the massive research complex that would encompass the planet. Meanwhile, research into ship construction moved swiftly, and it was predicted by Junon that a new level would be reached within the next tenth. The new class, what would be called a frigate, would be slightly larger then the current escort class, and allow for greater firepower to be added to the defense fleet that was being raised around Serenity. For Vice Lord Defcon had succeeded in convincing Lord Chagnon that it would be wise to be prepared for an attack through one of the, as yet, unexplored wormholes.
A few days later, the four Vice Lords and Chagnon gathered again in the High Command conference room. The beacon had been deployed, and they watched as Lieutenant Sharnon’s vessel cleared the second wormhole and appeared in a system with twin stars. This new system had six planets, three of which were adjacent to the wormhole from which the ship had flown through. This system was again within the same cluster as the other two, and was named Vando or twins in their language. However, almost immediately the ships scanners began picking up readings from four of the planets in the system. It seemed that all four had substantial amounts of life, and at least one was highly developed.
“Another new race!” Exnon called out. “What should we do?”
All were silent until Mandron summoned the courage to speak up. “M…maybe we should w…wait as we did l…Last t…time?” his reply sounded like a question lacking any real conviction.
“A wise idea,” put in Chagnon. “Lieutenant Sharnon, proceed as you had previously in the Churba system. Open all frequencies, but broadcast nothing.”
“Yes, sir” came the response. “My Lord, we are picking up an unknown vessel approaching us from the closest of the planets. It has begun to transmit something, we are patching it through you n…” but her Last word was cut off. As the High Command looked on, the unknown vessel opened fire shorting out the audio feed from the ship. The Revelation went evasive and tried to make its way back to the wormhole, but it was equipped with no shields nor did it have any weaponry of any kind to fight back.
“We must do something!” cried out Defcon. “There are good soldiers on that ship.”
“What can we do?” came a dejected reply from Junon. “That system is light years away, and we have no ships in a position to offer assistance.” As he was saying this, the ships engines were hit, and the little ship began spinning out of control.
“They are being massacred,” a breathless Mandron said almost to himself. “I should have been on that ship. That’s my crew. That should have been me” he whispered as he watched the little ship being raked by enemy fire. Then, in an instant, there was nothing.
A few minutes later the haunting silence was broken by Junon. “We have the translation of the message that was broadcast by the enemy vessel.” He said in a low solemn voice. “It said ‘We are the Terran Confederacy. You have invaded our space and, therefore, must be destroyed. No exceptions will be made, and no survivors will be taken. Prepare for war.’”

Re: The Walkers, updated 9-28-03
 

Those damned Terrans...

Re: The Walkers, updated 9-28-03
 

Don't want to be a bore, but parsec is about 3.26 light years ! http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/image...s/rolleyes.gif 4 parsecs away from Serenity would place the ship on top of Aquellenian home world http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon7.gif

Re: The Walkers, updated 9-28-03
 

Thanks for the info oleg, i'll have to update the story accordingly and keep that in mind for future installments....

2400.9 – 2401.1 ~ Discovery and Deceit

“Perhaps there was some mistake,” thought Lord Chagnon as he traversed the steps to the High Command conference room a few days later. “It doesn’t make sense for them to just attack us for no reason, there had to have been a mistake, we must have aggravated them in some way.” These were the thoughts that had been going through his mind the past few days. The crew of Revelation One had been the first Vandron killed maliciously in over 2000 years. It was almost unthinkable to believe that that crew had been destroyed in the fashion that they were. Yet, there the High Command was, about to debate what should be done with this new threat from the Vando system. Vice Lord Defcon had already put three escort class Angel defense ships on notice to be prepared for an attack should these Terrans try anything. Meanwhile a new frigate class Vigilance defense ship was in the final stages of production. Both types of ships carried shields, however, the Vigilance ships had an extra set of depleted uranium cannons to bring added firepower to a fight. It was with these actions in mind that Defcon opened up the talks.
“We must be prepared for whatever lies ahead” he said with a grim expression. “We should continue to produce our new frigate class ships, and we should continue with our research into those projectile weapons. Junon, you’ve had some ideas about new improvements that can be made there have you not?”
“Yes, indeed Defcon” Junon answered with a smile. “I think we can still improve on the amount of damage that they will be able to deal by increasing the velocity from which they are fired. Perhaps we may even be able to increase there range as well.”
“Very well Junon” came the tired answer from Lord Chagnon, “continue research into these weapons. I feel it is indeed wise to prepare for any threat that may come our way. Likewise, continue production on our new class of ships. I do not want any more needless deaths on our hands. For that matter, no more defenseless ships will be sent into the great beyond, and all colony ships will have armed escorts.”
“A wise plan my Lord,” offered Exnon, and then went on “Maybe we should explore some of the other wormholes leading into and out of our home system.” He added quickly, “it would be a wise defensive precaution to take.”
“I agree,” noted Defcon “I have thought the same thing about that wormhole to the north of us. I think it may be wise to send the three ships I have on standby through that wormhole to discover what my lie on the other side. It may even lead to another Terran system, in which case, we would be able to try to come to some sort of settlement.”
“Or even an empty system that we may be able to colonize, and continue our search for the Almighty” put in Exnon.
“Yes, I do see the wisdom in that” agreed Chagnon. “However, I do not wish to precipitate any more violence.”
“But Chagnon, these ships are well armed and shielded. They will be able to stand up to whatever they may find.” Defcon argued.
“Though I do not wish to loose more Vandron lives, I do agree that knowing what is on the other side of that wormhole would be advantageous. Defcon, are you certain that those ships could handle an attack like Revelation One sustained?”
“Without a doubt, sir” Defcon said with an air of confidence. “In fact, we have been running simulations going over just that scenario, and it seems that we would not even take any damage if were to come up against a similar attack.”
“Very well then, give the order to send the three ships through. And make sure that production on those new vessels does not fall behind.” With that Chagnon dismissed them and retired back to his quarters.

It was a welcome sight…a system devoid of any signs of a Terran presence. In fact, it seems that Exnon’s hunch was correct; there were indeed two partially colonizable planets and two rock planets with a carbon dioxide atmosphere that would be fully colonizable if the technology was available. There were also two more wormholes in the northern portion of the system, neither of which seemed to lead to Terran space. The system was named Parvenium, after one of the great Vandron leaders of old. After the system had been adequately scanned, and the beacons had been positioned, it was decided that the three ship battle group, named the Host of Heaven, would continue through the northwestern wormhole into another system that seemed to be part of their star cluster.
In the meantime, the first of the Aquilaeian shipments arrived. The deal was indeed beneficial to the Vandron, as they received much needed resources, and it was decided to increase the trade percentages accordingly. Plans were drawn up for resource storage facilities so that none of these resources would be wasted, and it was decided that one of the future colonies in the Parvenium system, if not resource rich itself, would become a storage colony. At the same time, another level of projectile weapons had been reached, and the focus was turned toward developing more efficient ion engines to propel the Vandron vessels, and increase the distance they would be able to travel before having to re-supply. Also, the first of the vigilance class frigates was completed and put on standby in orbit of Serenity; they would not be caught unprepared by a Terran attack again. However, it seemed that the Vandron would not be left alone by the Terrans, as a message was being broadcast to the beacon left in that system. It seemed that, while the specifics of the system could not be ascertained without a ship present, they still could receive transmissions through the beacon that had been dropped there. It was over this transmission that the High Command was currently having an intense discussion.
“They are trying to deceive us” argued Defcon. “It is the same type of tactic the Cindron used to lure their enemies into a false sense of security.”
“It may be, but for a chance at peace…” Lord Chagnon’s voice trailed off, “but still, I see the wisdom in what you are saying Defcon. It does not make sense that these…these Terrans would attack us and then turn around and offer us a trade alliance. Not even the Cindron were that blatant.”
“P…perhaps they were only trying to t…test us in that initial a…attack. Maybe when they s…saw that we were unarmed they had a ch…change of h…heart” offered Vice Lord Mandron, as nervous as ever.
“Perhaps Mandron” Junon cut in, “or perhaps they have seen what they perceive as a weakness and they wish to exploit us. After all, our ship did just sit there and do nothing until it was attacked. Maybe they think that they will be able to get close to us with an offer like this.”
“Exactly my point Junon” agreed Defcon “they will use this trade alliance to get close to us.”
“But they may genuinely want peace” put in Exnon. “Perhaps they simply made a mistake. Maybe they mistook us for a different race.”
“That may also be the case,” agreed Chagnon “but it may not. It appears to me that we are at an impasse with theses Terrans; we can not trust them, yet we want to have peace.”
“At least one thing is clear,” Exnon said, with a smile creeping to his face, “the Almighty certainly wasn’t a Terran.”
After a light laugh the High Command decided that in light of the previous events, though peace was the desired end, the trade alliance could not be accepted at this time. This much was said in the message transmitted back to the Terran Confederacy. They gave no reply.

Meanwhile, the Host of Heaven was busy charting the rest of the systems in their star cluster, and the entanglement of wormholes that connected them, when they came upon another race. These sentients were the Rebel Alliance and they resembled the Terrans in their speech. However, unlike previous encounters with the Aquilaeians and Terrans, the order was given to transmit a message of peace and declare that the Vandron’s purpose was to merely explore these systems. To this there was no reply, nor any trouble from the Rebel colony present in the system. Therefore the battle group continued on scouting the systems, finding two systems inhabited by Aquilaeians and another by this new Rebel race. It was after this second Rebel system was found that the three Angels had there first taste of combat.

Re: The Walkers, updated 9-28-03
 

2401.2 – 2402 ~ Vengeance

As soon as the Host of Heaven battle group appeared on the other side of the wormhole, battle claxons began blaring. There in front of them were two Terran vessels of the same type they had encountered before, and another Terran vessel of a different variety, much bulkier and slower then the other two.
“Admiral Nefta, we have detected a three ship Terran battle group directly ahead of us Ma’am. Two of the same class of ship that destroyed Revelation One are among them. In fact, Ma’am, I believe one of the ships is the same exact ship that was encountered previously.”
“Very good, Lieutenant” came the cold reply, “all Angels raise shields and close to attack range. Target weapons emplacements and engines of the lead ship. You may fire at will”
The two battle Groups slowly wove their way towards each other vying for the best tactical position available to them. The weapons of each were similar as each used a variation of the same type of projectile technology, though the weapons on the Terran ships seemed to be a bit more powerful and more prevalent. However, the Vandron ships were shielded and could risk a more direct assault hoping to absorb the damage that may be dealt to them.
Angel Two closed within range first and avoided the fire sent its way from the enemy ship. In return it raked the aft portion of the lead ship sending fiery molten steel out into space, and destroying one of the ships main engines. At the same time, Angel One opened fire and raked the top of the ship destroying the weapons emplacement positioned there. As Angel Three closed within range, the second Terran frigate fell in behind her and unleashed a flurry into her aft shields. The shields held and Angel Three was able to pound her target with her own fire, destroying the Last of her gun batteries. This in effect knocked the first Terran frigate out of the fight.
“Target one has been neutralized Admiral, it no longer poses an immediate threat to any of our ships,” said the Lieutenant with a bit of tension leaving his voice.
“Excellent…bring us around to face the second frigate” came the reply from the Admiral. “All ships focus fire on the second frigate. And Lieutenant, what is the status of the third Terran vessel? Where has it gone?”
“The third vessel has vectored away from the battle Ma’am. They appear to be running away.”
“We’ll have to see about that won’t we,” came the icy reply. “Captain Orton, break off your attack from the frigate and proceed after the fleeing enemy vessel.”
“Yes, Ma’am” the answer came over the com. “We have just taken out the engines of the second frigate, we are now mov…” fire from the second Terran frigate fizzled against the Angel’s shields and made the transmission skip, “…ing to intercept.”
“Very good Captain Orton” she knew that the fight was not yet over, and thus didn’t allow herself to relax for an instant. “Helm, bring us around for another pass near the frigate’s aft, and avoid those guns as best you can,” she commanded with an extra emphasis on the word ‘avoid.’ “Angel Three make a pass to the ships starboard side and take out that gun emplacement.”
The ships moved in beautiful synchronization around the crippled vessel all the while dodging fire or absorbing it within their shields. Angel Three missed the gun battery but succeeded in bLasting away what appeared to be the crew quarters. While Admiral Nefta’s Angel One swung behind the enemy frigate and blew away the final engine. At the same time, Captain Orton caught up with the third vessel and began raking it with DUC fire. A gaping whole was blown in the side of the ship on the second round of shots, and what must have been Terran passengers began flying from the gash.
“Show them no mercy,” ordered the Admiral as Angel One scored two more direct hits on the second frigate that sent it spinning wildly out of control.
“Now you know how Revelation One felt,” Nefta said in a cool menacing voice as she watched the Terran vessel begin to consume itself with a blistering explosion that ripped the ship apart like a tin can. “Now you know how my sister felt…” her voice trailed off into silent thought. At the same time, Captain Orton watched as the same fiery end came to the vessel that had tried to flee.
“Angels, focus all fire on the final ship,” Nefta ordered not willing to concede victory until there wasn’t a single Terran left in the sector. The battered frigate had tried to escape on its one remaining engine, but it simply wasn’t fast enough. The Host of Heaven swooped in and rained death onto the final Terran vessel. The wormhole from which the Host initially exited would now be active for some time as the lifeless debris from the Terran vessels floated aimlessly into its maw.
“Well done Captains. You performed as expected and for that you have my appreciation.” With that Admiral Nefta silenced ship to ship communications and made ready for her report back to High Command.

High Command was summoned immediately after the ships exited the wormhole and thus was able to witness the majority of the battle as it unfolded. However, Admiral Nefta did not have her audio feed back to Serenity activated, and High Command was anxious to speak with her about the apparent victory.
“Excellent work, Admiral,” came the approval of Vice Lord Defcon. “Your actions today will be noted as the first of many victories for the Vandron.”
“Yes, indeed, Admiral,” said Chagnon stepping into the conversation. “Though I must admit I am curious as to why that Terran vessel was fleeing.”
“It was a transport vessel of some kind, perhaps even a colony ship,” the icy Admiral Nefta replied.
“You knew this when you ordered it to be attacked?” asked Chagnon.
“Yes.”
“Why then was it not spared?”
“I did not wish for it to alert the Terran’s to our presence in the system. We caught them by surprise when we exited the wormhole, and I do not think that they had time to alert their command. Even so, if it was a colony ship, as I suspect it was, there were two worlds that fit the description of the Terran home world in that system. I could not let them gain a foothold now, only to have to fight a harder battle later.”
“A wise decision, Admiral,” came the reply from Chagnon, “but the fact remains that innocent civilians were destroyed with that ship.”
“Like the innocent soldiers slaughtered aboard Revelation One!” she caught herself before any more of her emotion flooded out. “I apologize, Lord Chagnon, for that outburst.”
“We know that your sister, Lieutenant Sharnon, was the Captain of Revelation One, Admiral. And we understand how this must make you feel toward the Terrans,” replied Chagnon with an air of pity in his voice. “However, Admiral, you must not allow your emotions to get the best of you next time. While your reasoning may have been militarily sound, I suspect that your intentions were fueled by a deeper motivation.” The room was silent as Chagnon paused to collect himself. “Remember Nefta, our aim is peace and cooperation. We will do what we must to defend ourselves, but we must not allow ourselves to stoop as low as our enemies.”
“I understand my Lord,” Nefta replied in a steely voice.
“Admiral," said Defcon, "your orders are to return home to Serenity for a more in-depth debriefing, as well as to refuel your battle group” and after a pause went on “and to be awarded for your valor in the engagement. High Command out.”

Over the next few tenths there were no new encounters with any Terran vessels, the Rebels remained silent, while the anxious Aquilaeians sought to not only continue trading our resources, but to begin trading everything, in the form of a partnership; a proposal to which we gladly agreed. It seems that the bond between our two peoples is growing stronger by the tenth. At the same time, thanks to Vice Lord Junon’s tireless efforts, we developed more efficient ion engines and shield generators, and began looking at applying our religious understanding through the development of so-called religious technology. Our third and fourth Comet colony ships were built and escorted into the Parvenium system where they founded a military installation on Parvenium V which was renamed Parvenium Prime and a storage colony on Parvenium IV which was not renamed. Parvenium Prime would be the capital planet for the Parvenium System until the more agreeable, carbon dioxide rich, rock planets could be colonized, while Parvenium IV would begin stockpiling the resources received from the Aquilaeians. The vessels that had escorted them into the system became the Parvenium Protectorate and stationed themselves above Parvenium Prime in case any trouble should arise. This small battle group consisted of three Frigate Class Vigilance MK1s.
Meanwhile, Admiral Nefta returned to a hero’s welcome (the details of the battle had not been made public) and refueled her battle group. She was also awarded another ship for her bravery, Vigilance One MK2, the most advanced frigate class vessel in the fleet at the time, though she chose to continue to use Angel One as her flagship. She was given orders to move back into the Churba system and hold the approach into the wormhole from the known Terran system to which it was connected. It was believed that here she could not escalate the war by destroying more innocent lives. To these orders she complied, but prayed to the Almighty every day that he would induce a Terran battle group to pass her way so she could continue to exact her icy revenge.

[ September 07, 2003, 05:31: Message edited by: chewy027 ]

Re: The Walkers, updated 9-28-03
 

Nicely done http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon7.gif
Any info about the game setup? Size and type of galaxy, number of AI's and difficulty settings?

Re: The Walkers, updated 9-28-03
 

Thanks Primitve, positive feedback is always welcome http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon12.gif

As for the game setup: Medium Galaxy - 133 systems, cluster formation, wormholes anywhere in system, low tech start, high tech cost, stellar manipulation turned off (it alwaus crashed my computer later in the game), 20 races - 15 handpicked, only 5000 point .emp races used - 5000 racial points, no neutrals, high difficulty and bonuses, no cheats allowed, single planet start with a high value, Version 1.49 (never made the upgrade to gold). I think that covers everything.

Re: The Walkers, updated 9-28-03
 

accidental double post, seems the delete button has gone missing

[ September 07, 2003, 16:19: Message edited by: chewy027 ]

Re: The Walkers, updated 9-28-03
 

2402.1 – 2402.7 ~ A Second Chance

“Ma’am, something is coming through the wormhole,” came the shrill voice of the ensign.
“Cut audio and video feed to Serenity,” ordered Admiral Nefta as she recognized exactly what was making its way through the strange anomaly that has been come to be known as a wormhole. “Vigilance, move to intercept,” she didn’t even wait for confirmation of the vessel’s origin before she gave the order to attack. “Do not allow them to flee back through the wormhole,” she ordered in her usual icy tone. “Angels, encircle the vessel, but do not fire until my command.”
“What do you plan to do Admiral?” asked Captain Orton.
“Open a hailing frequency to the Terran vessel,” she commanded ignoring Orton’s inquiry. “This is Admiral Nefta, commanding officer of this Battle Group, declare your intentions or be destroyed.”
“Please spare us,” came the immediate response. “We are nothing more then a ship full of colonists seeking to build a new home for ourselves. We mean you no harm.”
“To what system are you destined?” asked the Admiral.
“We seek the Alpha Epsilon system,” answered the captain of the colony ship.
“I am unfamiliar with that name, what are the coordinates of the systems primary star?”
After a short pause the Captain told her the coordinates and added, “Please, I say again, we mean you no harm. We do not seek to see our peoples continue this needless war. We are a handful of extremists from the Terran Confederacy who have opted to begin a new society for ourselves away from the war-mongering of our govern…”
Nefta cut him off, “These are the coordinates for the Parvenium System.” She appeared to not have heard a word he said. “Thank you for the information captain, please give my regards to the Almighty when you meet him.”
“Wait! We do not w…” the com was silenced.
“You may fire at will” commanded Nefta with an evenness to her voice that revealed none of the hatred welling up inside her. “May the Almighty have mercy on their souls,” she added to herself in a whisper as she watched the colony ship, and all of its passengers, being enveloped in a ball of fire and molten steel.

“It makes no sense,” thought Lord Chagnon as he listened to the details of the day’s intelligence report from Vice Lord Defcon. “Especially with the transmissions we have been receiving these past few tenths.” His mind wandered into contemplation.
“…Admiral Nefta’s battle group then intercepted the Terran frigate and destroyed it without incident. She reported that it was headed for the Parvenium system to destroy our new colonies there and that we should watch the wormhole approaches to that system closely,” and with that Defcon finished his statement and sat down.
“How did she find out they were destined for the Parvenium system?” Chagnon wondered, not really paying attention as Defcon sat down.
Vice Lord Mandron then stood up and began his portion of the report, “Our r…relations with the Aquilaeians continue to look promising as we have learned a great deal f…from them in a relatively short t…time.” He paused to collect himself and then went on, “and we have l…learned of a situation with the Aquilaeians that may be adv…” he was cut off by Chagnon rather brusquely.
“Were there any other transmissions received?”
“W…what do you m…mean my Lord?” Mandron replied becoming more nervous.
“Were there any other transmissions received from the Terrans?” Chagnon said annunciating every word perfectly while speaking rather slowly.
“W…well nothing n…new, just the s…same continuous transmission that h…has been sent every d…day.”
“So they continue to offer peace even after they sent another ship to attack us,” said Defcon.
“Perhaps there is more to this then we are seeing,” offered Vice Lord Exnon. “Isn’t it convenient that Admiral Nefta’s entire communications array failed just as the Terran vessel was exiting the wormhole?”
“I agree,” said Chagnon, “I think that Admiral Nefta is withholding something from us. Nevertheless, I feel that we need to begin taking this plea for peace from the Terrans more seriously.”
“I also agree,” said Vice Lord Junon. “It makes no sense for these Terrans to continue to ask for a trade alliance and peace, and not be serious about it.”
“But what of the recent attack,” echoed Defcon? “Surely that must prove something of the Terrans intentions.”
“If it was indeed a Terran attack vessel then it would indeed disprove their apparent plea for peace,” replied Chagnon. “However, if we were to take a closer look into the situation I believe that we would find trickery and deceit on Nefta’s part. Her heart has been twisted by vengeance and I think her mind has been clouded enough for her to make unwise decisions as of late. Yet, I believe we should offer her the benefit of the doubt and not act on her recent actions. Instead I think that we should accept the treaty proposal by the Terrans and give them a second chance. If there is peace, there will be no need for Nefta to remain in the Churba system where she can cause trouble.”
“Are you certain this is a wise decision” asked Defcon? “After all, it was the Terrans who started this war.”
“But we still don’t know if the initial attack was a mistake on their part. They may have mistaken us for someone else” put in Exnon.
“Besides,” offered Vice Lord Junon, “ours is the way of peace. It is our duty to accept a legitimate cry for an end to the bloodshed, and it seems a wise solution to whatever problems Nefta may pose.”
“While I agree with the wisdom in your reasoning,” said Defcon, “I do not agree that Nefta should be recalled. She is a brilliant tactician I, for one, think her talents should not be wasted.”
“Who said anything about a recall?” asked Chagnon. “We will simple re-station her in the Parvenium System. If the Terrans indeed plan to attack there we will be ready for them. Besides, I have always believed in giving everyone a second chance.” He said puting extra emphasis on everyone. Then he stopped for a second as if realizing something for the first time, “Now Mandron, weren’t you saying something of the situation with the Aquilaeians?”
“Well y…yes I was” said Mandron. “We have ascertained th…that their home planet is of a rock c…composition. Therefore, they know how to colonize r…rock planets.”
“So how will this knowledge benefit us Mandron?” asked Chagnon.
“With our recent partnership with the Aquilaeians,” said Junon answering for him, “Mandron and I believe that we may be able to trade for their knowledge of rock colonization. This would allow us to expand at a much higher rate, and to make our search for the Almighty much more effective.”
“So what do you propose we trade them?” asked Chagnon.
“It seems prudent to offer them knowledge of our own gas colonization techniques, and maybe throw in a few extra tons of organic resources in our next shipment; we have no need for them anyway.”
“This seems like a wise plan,” said Chagnon, “good work, the both of you.”
“Thank you Chagnon,” they said in unison.
“And finally for our Last order of business, we turn to Junon for our research progress update,” Chagnon said with a bit excitement to his voice. “How goes our research into these religious technologies?”
“Very well, my Lord” replied Junon. “We should be finished with our current line of research within the next tenth.”
“Excellent work Junon. If you stay on schedule then you will have finished a full two tenths ahead of our projections” remarked Exnon.
“Yes indeed, Exnon” agreed Junon. “Of course the extra research we are receiving from the Aquilaeians is helping, and the fact that our research center on Hope is over 50% complete is helping the process along immensely.”
“So you are nearly finished then with the current project?” asked Defcon.
“Yes we are. Why?” asked Junon
“Well, seeing as how we are going to be ending this conflict with the Terrans very shortly, I believe it would be wise to research another theoretical area of study.”
“That would seem wise” put in Chagnon. “Do you have any suggestions?” he said half jokingly.
“As a matter of fact, I do. I believe that it would be a wise course of action to do an in depth study of some military sciences. While the Terran threat may have subsided, we can never be sure that another enemy won’t appear. Let us prepare ourselves by deepening our understanding in this area so that we will have a wider variety of other areas to research into if the need should present itself.”
“May I put in a suggestion?” asked Exnon.
“Go ahead” said Chagnon.
“Thank you my Lord,” and after a pause went on, “While I agree now would be a good time to look into more military technologies, might I suggest that we not forget the lifeblood of our fleets. Let us look into making our engines more efficient. Perhaps Junon could even develop a new type of engine that is even faster then our current ion variety. And if the council doesn’t agree that engine research is necessary may I then suggest looking into more efficient means of re-supplying our vessels.”
“Both of these suggestions seem valid” agreed Chagnon, “what do you think Junon?”
“Well, in my opinion, I would have to agree with Defcon. The opportunity to open up new avenues of research through a deeper understanding of military sciences while we are in a time of peace is one that we must take advantage of. Plus the idea of revealing new things to research because of the theoretic nature of the project is appealing to me.”
“But…” Exnon tried to offer an argument only to be cut off by Chagnon.
“So it is settled then. Junon once you finish the current project you will begin to look into further our understanding of the military sciences. Nefta will make her way to the Parvenium System and we will accept the Terran offer for peace, while we will offer this trade to the Aquilaeians. Let us hope that all of our plans are executed as smoothly as they have been discussed.” And with that Chagnon dismissed them all.

Fortunately all of the plans were executed exactly as planned. Junon began his research into the military sciences and quickly finished soon after. It was decided that because of the relative ease with which he finished that is would be wise to continue his research in that area. At the same time, a treaty was signed with the Terrans and Nefta was restationed in the Parvenium System without incident. Shortly thereafter, we upgraded our treaty with the Terrans to a military alliance. How quickly enemies can become friends.
The Aquilaeians accepted our trade proposal and we acquired the technology to colonize rock based planets. We quickly designed the Asteroid Class colony ship and began producing them to colonize the newly available planets. Our first target was the Parvenium System and its three fully colonizable planets. We also sent out a modified Revelation scout ship, it was now equipped with a DUC canon, into the southern wormhole. As expected the wormhole led into a new cluster of star systems. This ship’s mission would be to explore this new cluster for any outward signs of the Almighty while the mass colonization of systems in our home cluster commenced. It wasn’t long until a new race, the Star Empire of Romii, was encountered. While no agreements were reached, there was no violence between us. At the same time, the Aquilaeians gave us their star maps and revealed to us the contents of the rest of the systems in our cluster. Along with the new Revelation scout ship, we also completed construction of a Purveyor Class transport vessel. This ship would aid in the rapid colonization of our star cluster. All seems to be going well.

Re: The Walkers, updated 9-28-03
 

Just for anyone who is interested:
Vandron 17th place with 98.6k pts
Terrans 16th place with 106.1k pts
Rebel Alliance 15th place with 108.5k pts
Aquilaeians 6th place with 190.1k pts
Star Empire of Romii 2nd place with 257.7k pts

2402.8 – 2403.4 ~ A Race

The next few tenths continued to go by very smoothly. Vice Lord Exnon brokered a trade alliance with the Star Empire of Romii and finalized our partnership with the Terrans. Interestingly, it has been learned that the Aquilaeians and the Terrans are at war with each other. It is now believed that in the initial Terran attack, Revelation One was mistaken for an Aquilaeian vessel by the Terran’s and hence attacked. We have also learned that the Rebel Alliance has no treaties of any kind with anyone, and despite Exnon’s best efforts, our relations with them continue to remain unchanged. However, it seems that the Terrans have taken over many of the Rebel’s systems and so they may cease to be a major player in galactic politics anyway.
Over this same time period Vice Lord Junon was quite busy as well. He finished research on another military science project which opened the way for research into a number of new fields. Once that was complete he took on three new projects simultaneously: ship capture, point defense, and repair. Amazingly, he finished all three projects within one tenth and moved on to reaching a new technical level of ship construction. With this new technology, a new design was created, the frigate class Overtaker MK1. It was equipped with a boarding party and the new point defense canons as well as its own shield and DUC. At least one of these vessels went into production for each fleet in the navy.
But the most interesting development during these few tenths occurred in Vice Lord Exnon’s field, that of exploration and colonization. Nearly two more star clusters were charted between the combined efforts of the Aquilaeians, Terrans and Vandron, while the empire grew from encompassing two systems to three and gaining six planets. However, the most important occurrence was the discovery of six worlds with strange ruins on their surface. Four of the six ruins were located on ice planets, while the fifth was on a rock world and the sixth on a gas giant. A colony ship was immediately diverted to this fifth, rocky planet to begin looking into these strange ruins…

“Can’t this oversized crate go any faster?!” Captain Impo yelped as his Asteroid class colony ship made its way into the Gliese System. The Gliese system had many colonizable planets, and there were many ships in production aimed at populating all of them, however, for Captain Impo, his ship, and crew the final destination was the highly classified world of Gliese I. From space Gliese I was a serene looking world with a methane atmosphere and broad sweeping plains. But even more appealing was the fact that it was believed to hold ancient knowledge, and maybe even clues as to the whereabouts of the Almighty himself. Therefore, they were to proceed with all speed to its surface and begin investigating this strange world. Unfortunately it appeared that the Aquilaeians had the same plans.
“Captain,” called out the com officer, “it appears that an Aquilaeian vessel is also on approach to Gliese I.”
“Damn,” thought Impo, “we must not allow them to reach her first” ordered the captain to no one in particular. “Open a com channel; let’s see if we can delay them.”
He waited for the channel to be opened and then declared, “This is Captain Impo of Asteroid Two…ah…how are things going for you guys?”
“Things are going well Captain Impo, thank you for inquiring”, came the reply. “Do you require anything further?”
“Umm, not really, I…ah…just wanted to ask a few questions that’s all.”
“Sorry Captain, we really don’t have time for questions, we are on an important mission to Gliese I.”
“Oh right, of course you are” and then to his crew he bent over and whispered “In the name of the Almighty can’t this thing go any faster!” He then straightened and said “So Captain…ah…hey, I don’t even know your name.”
“My name is insignificant Captain Impo.”
“Sorry, just trying to be friendly. Say, is that a colony ship of some kind you’re driving there?”
“Really Captain, I am tempted to silence communications with you, but since you are an ally I will indulge you this one time.”
“Captain,” the scanner operator whispered, “they have come to a stop.”
“Excellent, continue toward the objective at full speed” Impo said in a hushed voice.
“What was that Captain?”
“Ah…nothing…I…ah…asked about your objective on Gliese I and if your ship was in need.”
“As I said before, Captain we are in no need of assistance, and as for our mission to Gliese I, I cannot give you any specifics.”
“I see then…you know, you still haven’t told me your name.”
The agitation was beginning to become apparent in the Aquilaeian captain’s voice. “If you must know, my name is Captain Jurgus Robin. Anything other frivolous information you would like to know.”
“Sure…I mean…ah…did you see that nebulae back in the Churba system, aint she a beaut’?”
“Why are you asking me these stupid quest…” and then it dawned on him. “Captain if you don’t mind my asking what your destination was again?”
“Oh…ah…that’s not to important right now…I mean, did you see the colors in that thing?”
“Please answer the question Captain Impo.”
“Sure thing Jurgus, we’re going to Arguile VII for a little excavation and colonization. So about that nebulae…”
Jurgus cut him off “Arguile VII is in a different direction from that which you are headed. Are you sure that is where you are going?”
“Sure I’m sure that’s where we’re going,” and then quietly asked the ensign how close they were to their destination.
“We’re about three sectors away Captain, it appears we now have a sector lead on the Aquilaeian ship.”
“Excellent, cut communications to the other vessel, full speed towards Arguile I” commanded Impo.
“What was that? You bast…” and with that the communication was ended between the two ships. The Aquilaeian vessel immediately resumed its course for the planet and began gaining on the bulky colony vessel.
“Hurry up damnit! We can’t let them beat us there!”
The two ships raced along toward the surface of the planet with only a few thousand miles separating them. Each vying to stave off the others advance towards the planet.
“They are going after the exact same thing we are” thought Impo. “Eject all waste from our holds. Maybe that will slow them down a bit.” But the Aquilaeian vessel plunged right through the garbage hurled its way.
“Head straight for the ruins,” ordered Impo in a slightly mad voice, “and disregard any atmospheric resistance.”
“But sir, if we enter the atmosphere at the wrong angle our ship could be destroyed.”
“I understand your concern ensign, just follow your orders.”
“Yes sir” came the scared reply.
“Sir,” called out the scanner operator, “the Aquilaeian vessel has slowed its approach to account for the atmospheric disturbances.”
“Excellent, press onwar…” and with a thump he was thrown to the floor as the ship was rocked by the howling winds and storms of Gliese I. The outside of the vessel began to glow red as the heat from the entry began its onslaught on the vessel.
“Watch yourself navigator,” yelled out Impo as he made his way up to his chair, “try to put us down as easily as poss…” again he was thrown to the ground.
“Sir we have a hull breach in compartment 78, near the engines sir!”
“Don’t worry about it, this ship is only built for a one way trip anyway” he yelled above the din of the blaring claxons. “Where is that Aquilaeian ship?”
“They have stopped about 100 miles from the surface of the planet sir.” screamed the scanner operator.
“Good work crew, we beat those birds to the prize. Now let’s put this thing down in one peace.”

After a rocky landing Captain Impo immediately deployed all crew members and passengers and began construction on what would become a self sustaining colony around the mysterious ruins. After weeks of researching the ruins it was decided that whoever had built these structures was highly advanced and had been here a long time ago. While no direct evidence of the Almighty was found, the possibility of a highly advanced race that had existed long ago lent itself to many new theories about his origins. Apart from these discoveries, and perhaps even more important, was the fact that new levels of physics, astrophysics, and scanners were taken from these ruins and transmitted back to Serenity. The High Command was quite pleased with Captain Impo’s efforts and promised him a promotion as soon as he could get back home to Serenity. The fact that so much knowledge had been received from this one planet meant that the other five such worlds became a top priority for colonization, not only for what could be learned, but also for what might be lost to other prying races.

[ September 09, 2003, 18:08: Message edited by: chewy027 ]

Re: The Walkers, updated 9-28-03
 

Sorry for the wait, but the story is now archived on SE.net. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon6.gif

Re: The Walkers, updated 9-28-03
 

Besides going home from work, this is one of the things I really look forward too each day.

Re: The Walkers, updated 9-28-03
 

<font size="2" face="Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif">What, you don't have an internet connection at work ??? http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon12.gif

Re: The Walkers, updated 9-28-03
 

Thanks for the positive feedback guys, how can i improve the story?

Terrans 19th place with 81.4k pts
Vandron 15th place with 122.6k pts
Rebel Alliance 13th place with 135.1k pts
Aquilaeians 4th place with 269.1k pts
Star Empire of Romii 1st place with 433kpts

2403.5 -2404.2 ~ Preparation

“While I am extremely satisfied with the new advances we’ve achieved from our research on Gliese I, I am perturbed at what our presence there may cost us”, began Chagnon. “It appears that this system had been previously claimed by our allies, the Aquilaeians, and that they are not very pleased that we have colonized a world there. Let alone the fact that the world contained those ancient ruins, which we beat them to, that it was a world that was fully colonizable to them, and that we have other colony ships on the way to colonize other planets there.”
“I am working around the c…clock on appeasing them my lord” answered Vice Lord Mandron.
“This is not an enemy that I wish to make” the room was silent for a moment before Chagnon went on. “By our shared star charts we know that they are much larger than us, and they have a larger and more powerful navy then we do. We also know that they are aware of these same circumstances.” He paused for as second before he went on, “In addition to that, they are our closest and most important allies”, he put extra emphasis on the Last word.
“Might I suggest moving in more ships to help solidify the systems defenses,” put in Vice Lord Defcon.
“And give them a signal that we are willing to fight to keep the system?” replied Exnon. “Is that precaution worth the message it will send?”
“That is something we will have to risk,” replied Chagnon. “I will not abandon the millions of colonists in the event that they are attacked.” He looked over to Defcon, “send more ships to bolster those defenses, make sure those wormholes are well patrolled.”
“And what of the colony ships headed towards the system?” asked Exnon. “Should they continue on their course?”
“Yes,” answered Chagnon, “and make sure that all of the colonists began preparations for space yards as soon as they make landfall…we may need those extra ships from that system if, indeed there is trouble, which, I hope to the Almighty, there is not.”
“I agree Chagnon” put in Defcon. “That system is completely isolated from the others we control. We would have a hard time getting to it if the Aquilaeians were to cut it off.”
“There is also the matter of the Rebel planet in the system” added Exnon. “Perhaps we could enlist their aid.”
“Not likely” came the reply from Mandron, “they have been m…most uncooperative.”
“I see” finished Exnon, “then I too agree that we must make ourselves ready for whatever may lie ahead.”
“Perhaps we could make some seemingly unfavorable trades with the Aquilaeians to make them forget about the Gliese System” suggested Vice Lord Junon. “We have many resources stockpiled, many of which came from the Aquilaeians in the first place. We could offer that in exchange for certain technologies.”
“A good idea Junon,” he turned to Mandron “see what you can do with that idea”
“Right away my lord” and with that Mandron left the room.
“Any other pressing issues at the moment?” asked Chagnon. “Good, then see to it that this situation with the Aquilaeians doesn’t get out of control, and remember, our main objective here is to remain at peace. It would not be wise to enter an unnecessary war when it can be avoided.”

Unfortunately, despite the members of the High Commands best efforts, the situation with the Aquilaeians continued to degenerate. Vice Lord Mandron pleaded for the cause of peace, but his transmissions went unanswered [he was able to broker a trade and research alliance with the Star Empire of Romii however]. Therefore, more defense ships were sent off to the Gliese system, as colony ships arrived by the tenth to inhabit the planets there. Both of the fully colonizable planets were the first to be taken by our colony ships, and a system capital was immediately established on the gas giant in the system which was renamed Gliese Prime. At the same time, a mining colony was founded on Gliese VII to produce minerals for the system. The continuing colonization of this system did not make our allies happy. At the same time, colonization of a system adjacent to Gliese, the Alpha Leo System [named by the Terrans] was also undertaken. This system was partially inhabited by the Rebel Alliance, and this made relations with them bitter as well. The empire is growing, but at a high cost.
On a lighter note, Vice Lord Junon made incredible headway with the projects he was working on. He reached what was determined the highest level possible of projectile weapons, and made headway into two new fields: stellar harnessing and phased energy weapons. These phased weapons were nothing short of incredible as they could pass directly through normal shields. It was decided that these new weapons would take the place of the DUCs as the new fleet standard once a sufficient level was reached. As it was now, none of the races which they had encountered new of the marvel that was energy shielding. It was precisely because of this, that Overtaker Class Frigates were stationed at key wormholes in the event of an Aquilaeian attack. It was believed that should there be such an attack, because none of the Aquilaeian vessels were shielded, the Overtakers could board and capture the most powerful ships of the oncoming battle Groups and decimate the attacking forces in conjunction with our own battle Groups. Illustrating this tactic was the fact that several Rebel Colony ships had recently been captured coming through wormholes. This, in and of itself, is particularly noteworthy in that we were able to deconstruct these ships and unlock the keys to colonizing ice worlds. With this information in hand, production on Arctic Class colony ships began. Apart from all this, Junon also completed his research into a new level of ship construction, and the destroyer class vessel was born. Immediately, Redemption Class Attack ships began to be produced all around the cluster in preparation for what appeared to be an inevitable confrontation with an old ally.

[ September 10, 2003, 00:32: Message edited by: chewy027 ]

Re: The Walkers, updated 9-28-03
 

How can you improve the story? Go to war! I bet you can war against the Aqualarians and the Rebels at the same time.
"You rebel scum!" - one of the best lines out of Star Wars.

Re: The Walkers, updated 9-28-03
 

I think war may be coming from the Aquilaeians, of course I won't start anything myself simply becasue i'm trying to roleplay the Vandron as best I can, and they're a peaceful lot. Still it is tempting, the Aquilaeians are just now starting to finish off the Terrans and are ripe for an attack, oh well. It's a pity really about the Terrans, I was so looking forward to giving Admiral Nefta her revenge. I guess i'll have to write it in some other way.

Re: The Walkers, updated 9-28-03
 

<font size="2" face="Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif">She murdered ~40 millions for one sibling. Should be enough. Aquarlians are pure evil. Andreas made a _very_ good job here http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/shock.gif

Re: The Walkers, updated 9-28-03
 

I guess when you look at it that way Oleg someone could make the case that she should forgive them already...

Terrans 19th place with 89.1k pts
Rebel Alliance 16th place with 125.5k pts
Vandron 12th place with 171.7k pts
Aquilaeians 3rd place with 408.7k pts
Star Empire of Romii 1st place with 581.5k pts

2404.3 - 2404.9 ~ A few Thoughts

The Following is an excerpt from the personal logs of Lord Chagnon:

While the preparations for an adequate defense are being made, Vice Lord Junon continues to work tirelessly to advance his people and keep them technologically competitive with the other galactic powers. He knows that should we fall behind, there would be no hope for our people. The only thing that could be more catastrophic then loosing a technological race would be a severe resource shortage, but ironically, we are not in danger of that. And so Junon works day and night on the various projects that we decide upon. He is currently working on finishing the assignment of reaching a new level for religious technologies. It appears that he will finish this current research within the next few tenths, and then the cycle will begin again with another technology area or even another set of technology areas. Recently he has made advances to our shields, phased weapons, point defense, and propulsion. Apart from this, Junon also has taken it upon himself to constantly petition me to make colonizing the remaining worlds that hold those mysterious ruins a top priority. Now that we have stolen the technology to colonize ice planets from the Rebel Alliance we will begin to do this in earnest. Already we have reached another in the Aquilaeian controlled system of Asellus Astralus, they were not very pleased. From this world we learned of a technology we did not even realize existed, that of massive engine destroying weapons. We also learned more about the race that had previously inhabited the planet, discovering that ice planets were their preferred planetary composition. We know that these worlds hold more secrets of this mysterious empire that seems to have existed long ago, and we want those secrets to be in the hands of the Vandron. Junon has worked very closely with Vice Lord Exnon in seeing that there are ships bound for each of these planets.
Speaking of Vice Lord Exnon, he is doing an excellent job of making use of our colonization capabilities. Serenity and Hope are producing a colony ship every two tenths, and with the recent procurement of ice planet colonization, he has been busy finishing the colonization of our home system and our neighbor the Parvenium System. These two systems are our backbone and must be solidified from any possible infiltration. At the same time we are continuing to claim worlds in the Gliese System as well as its neighbor Alpha Leo. Both of them are about half colonized by our people. Our empire now spans five systems over twenty-eight worlds.
Of course, the overseer of all of our defenses for those worlds can not go without mention. Vice Lord Defcon knows every detail of every plan so well that he dreams about the preparations while he sleeps, or so he tells me. We now have thirty battle ready ships to the Aquilaeians over sixty battle ready vessels, many of which are much larger then our largest class. It is hoped that our Overtaker Class ships can help to tip that balance in our favor. Defcon has also recently convinced me to take a gamble and upgrade the entire fleet’s weapons to the phased polaron beams or PPBs. If we were to be attacked now, the only thing that would prevent us from being slaughtered would be those same Overtaker Class boarding vessels positioned on the wormholes. But I don’t believe that even they will be enough if our entire fleet’s weapons are out of commission, however, it is hoped that it will not have to come to that. Defcon has also recently made a trip out to personally brief Admiral Nefta and her Host of Heaven battle group. Should we be attacked, her ships will be the main force to counterattack. He bulked her battle group up to eight ships, including two Overtakers, and confided in her some of our counter strategies. He also explained to her how it had been discovered that it was the Aquilaeian’s fault that Redemption One had been destroyed by the Terrans, as the Terrans thought is was an Aquilaeian vessel attacking them. Defcon tells me that he could see that the affect this information had on the Admiral was exactly what he was looking for.
Vice Lord Mandron keeps himself busy with working on improving relations with the Aquilaeians. Unfortunately, they have declined all of our trade offers and gift offers and after a while, have simply refused to even acknowledge our transmissions. Therefore, Mandron has turned his attention to improving relations with the other known empires. He outdid himself with a military alliance with the Star Empire of Romii, and is now working towards a partnership with them. If our relations with the Aquilaeians should fail, Romii will be a powerful ally that we may be able to turn against them. The Rebel Alliance continues to be wary of our presence though they have made no aggressive moves towards us, and we are in no danger from the Terrans, as they continue to hold us in high regards. However, their war with the Aquilaeians does not go well for them. They have pleaded with us to end our partnership with their enemy and join their forces, and while tempting, simply is not the way of peace for us. We will wait and see what the future holds, and will be prepared for whatever course be taken.
As for myself, I have overseen each of them in their endeavors, and have tried to guide them with wisdom and honor. I do not think that I will be able to come to a peaceable agreement with the Aquilaeians, but by every means available I will continue to try. In the meantime, I must continue to prepare our worlds for any and all possibilities. May the wisdom and favor of the Almighty guide me, and may he watch over us all.

[ September 10, 2003, 15:54: Message edited by: chewy027 ]

Re: The Walkers, updated 9-28-03
 

Terrans 18th place with 98.1k pts
Rebel Alliance 15th place with 113.4k pts
Vandron 10th place with 229k pts
Aquilaeians 3rd place with 501.7k pts
Star Empire of Romii 1st place with 770k pts

2405 – 2405.5 ~ Commencement

“…and our upgrade has been complete. All of the ships in our armada are now equipped with the PPBs,” finished Vice Lord Defcon as he was briefing Lord Chagnon on the current condition of the fleet. “We are now moving all ships back into defensive positions astride the wormholes sir.”
“Good work Defcon, keep me informed as to the progress of these maneuvers. How is our actual ship production coning along?”
“It goes well sir, we have been adding a vessel or two every two tenths. However, the constant production of colony ships has severely impaired our ability to mass produce an adequate fleet. We are relying heavily on the Overtakers’ ability to steal ships from the enemy should an attack come.”
“I see,” answered Chagnon. “Do not fret Defcon; many of those worlds which the colony ships have built up are now beginning to produce ships themselves. Soon enough we will have more shipyards than we’ll know what to do with.”
“I understand Chagnon; I just don’t feel comfortable knowing that the Aquilaeians fleet is twice as large as ours, and constantly growing.”
“I wouldn’t worry too m…much about that Defcon,” put in Vice Lord Mandron.
“And why do you say that?” asked Chagnon.
“Because sir, we must not forget that the Aquilaeians d…depend on us for our resource p…production. I believe that that f…fact alone is what is keeping them from attacking us.”
“An interesting point Mandron,” agreed Defcon, “one that I hadn’t really thought of before.” He went on, “So it must be safe to assume that when our resources become dispensable to the Aquilaeians war will not be far behind.”
“But Defcon, you must remember that it is never wise to make assumptions,” corrected Chagnon half jokingly, and then more seriously went on, “besides, in the Aquilaeians eyes, if they were to attack us and win they would have no need for resources traded to them by us…they would be able to colonize our fallen worlds and take all that they would ever need. Still, the fact that our trade is a significant portion of their resource supply is a fact that we must use to our advantage.”
After a lull in the conversation Vice Lord Exnon spoke up, “My lord, I have just received word that Arctic Seven has reached its objective in the Shedir System.”
“Excellent, contact them over the com at once,” ordered Chagnon.
“Right away sir” obeyed Exnon. “Captain Impo of Arctic Seven is ready sir.”
“Captain Impo, good work on securing your objective.”
“Thanks my Lord, the fact that the birds don’t have ice colonization technology makes it pretty easy actually.”
“So any idea as to what these ruins will teach us?” asked Junon
“Well it’s a bit too early to tell, the scientists are combing over them now. I’ve been told that it looks like some more new technology that we’ve never seen before, something about massive shield depleting weapons.”
“Excellent work Impo,” put in Defcon. “You have done well in securing the ruins on these worlds. Make sure that a space yard and re-supply station are built so that we will have another forward base within Aquilaeian territory should we need them.”
“Yes,” agreed Chagnon, “see to it that those facilities are built, and then return back here to Serenity for your next mission. We have detected another world in the southern star cluster that seems to have more ruins, you will head there next.”
“Well I guess they weren’t lying when they told me I’d be able to see the galaxy if I went into the space navy. I’ll get those facilities built right away and then return home. Impo out.” And with that he ended the conversation.
“Well I must say,” said Exnon, “that Impo certainly is a reliable captain.”
“Yes he is,” agreed Defcon, “I may have to steal him for a battle group.”
“Let’s allow him to finish these missions before we go sending him off into combat,” said Chagnon, “of course, if a war does come upon us we will need all of the able Captains we can get.”
“Now then,” went on Chagnon, “Junon, how goes your research?
“Ah yes of course, I suppose I should let you all know what I do everyday, now shouldn’t I?” he said with a chuckle. “Well then, I just finished research into the theoretical field of construction, as you all know. We then decided to increase our defensive capacities by researching space mines. I recently finished that project, and am now awaiting the next. As for the mines themselves, it appears that I can devise a way to make larger more powerful mines with more research. But as it stands, we now have the capacity to make small seeking mines that we could easily place over wormholes or even above our planets as a first line of defense against any oncoming vessels.”
“Outstanding," echoed Defcon, “we should begin production of these mines at once. We can store them on any and every planet and then launch them as necessary.”
“There is one small problem,” Junon put in, “in order to make the mines truly effective I believe that we should research stronger warheads to place inside of them. This will allow us to deliver maximum firepower per mine.”
“Make it so,” said Chagnon. “These mines could be our final defense if all should go wrong.” He paused for a moment to collect his thoughts before going on, “Now then, where were…” he was cut off by an aid that came scrambling through the door.
“Excuse me my Lord,” the aid looked both nervous and saddened to be bearing the news she did. “We have just received news from the Gliese Protectorate Battle Group that they have been attacked.”
“Those Damn Aquilaeians,” said Defcon aloud, “I knew they were building up in that system. I should have had them better prepared.”
“It wasn’t the Aquilaeians who attacked us Vice Lord, it was the Rebel Alliance,” answered the aid.
“The Rebels?” a puzzled Chagnon asked “why would they possibly attack us after not even acknowledging our presence for so long? This makes no sense.”
“Perhaps, the Aquilaeians bought them off and are using them as a sort of probe to feel where our defenses are the weakest” put in Defcon.
“Impossible,” spoke up Mandron, “The R…rebels and the Aquilaeians have been at w…war with each other for almost two years now. It m…makes even less sense for the Rebels to become allies with the Aquilaeians than for them to attack us.”
“Any other information about the attack?” questioned Chagnon.
“Just that no damage was taken to any vessels in the Battle Group and that the attacking Rebel cruiser was destroyed.”
“You mean to say that there was only one attacking ship?” asked Defcon incredulously.
“Yes sir, only one ship attacked the battle group.”
“This information only serves to deepen the insanity of such an attack. These Rebels must be a truly unwise species.”
“One other thing my Lord,” finished the aid, “We have detected enemy ships approaching some of our colonies in the Alpha Leo System.”
“Thank you, you are dismissed,” said Chagnon with a wave of his hand. “Well gentleman, it appears that we misplaced our fears. This is not to say the Aquilaeians are no longer a threat however.”
“So what will be our immediate actions?” asked Exnon. “We must move to protect the colonies in the Alpha Leo System.”
“I agree” put in Junon, “We can not allow those colonies to be lost.”
“But the only available ships to protect that system are in Gliese,” shot back Defcon. “If we were to divert them it would leave the Gliese System wide open for an Aquilaeian invasion!”
“Nevertheless, Defcon, we must move to protect those people,” came Chagnon’s response. “Vice Lord, see to it that none of those colonists are harmed, and that all threats to them are eliminated.”
“Yes my Lord,” replied Defcon, “and what of the other Rebel colonies in those two systems? We do not have enough manpower for an invasion of those worlds. Therefore, in order to neutralize them we would have to destroy those colonies completely, a massacre of countless innocent lives.”
“I am aware of this fact Defcon,” Chagnon then paused for a moment before going on, “that is why you are not to touch those colonies. Destroy any ships you find, but harm no innocent lives. We must uphold the tenants of peace.”
“I understand my Lord. I will see to it at once.” And with that Defcon left the room.
“Junon, continue on with your research into these mines and warheads. I want to be able to begin mass producing them in their strongest form as soon as possible.”
“Yes my Lord,” said Junon.
“Mandron, see if you can find out why in the name of the Almighty we were attacked.”
“At once my Lord,” he replied.
And Exnon,” he paused for a second, “elevate the priority of reaching the worlds that hold ruins on them.”
“Of course, my Lord,” obeyed Exnon.
“This could be the beginning of a very long fight for us, and we need all the help we can get. You are all dismissed.” And with that the meeting was adjourned.

[ September 11, 2003, 04:13: Message edited by: chewy027 ]

Re: The Walkers, updated 9-28-03
 

Rebel Alliance 17th place with 98.4k pts
Terrans 16th place with 117.8k pts
Vandron 6th place with 277.8k pts
Aquilaeians 3rd place with 593.8k pts
Klingon Empire 2nd place with 624.8k pts
Star Empire of Romii 1st place with 872.6k pts

2405.6 – 2406 ~ Adaptation

“All hands to battle stations!” cried Commander Halas of the Gliese Protectorate Battle Group. “Close on the lead battle cruiser, and fire at will.”
Vice Lord Defcon had immediately mobilized this battle group to intercept the Rebel threat in the Alpha Leo System. Presently, there were two separate Rebel battle cruisers posing a threat to Alpha Leo Prime, the system capital. It was these two ships that the battle group had to intercept.
“Commander, I am detecting no shields on the present target.”
“Excellent, maybe we can end this engagement quickly with some swift boarding action.” He collected his thoughts and then went on, “Captain Ambron of Overtaker Thirteen, make your way to that vessel and board it.”
“Yes sir” came the reply, “and what about those guns?”
“Don’t worry about those guns; we’ll take care of them. Just get in close enough to launch your boarding pods…All other vessels lay down cover fire for Captain Ambron’s ship.”
In an instant, the space around them was lit up by PPB fire. Overtaker Thirteen skillfully navigated the distance between itself and the battle cruiser and made ready to launch its pods. Just then, the battle cruiser took notice of what was going on.
“Commander, the battle cruiser is turning towards us, they are beginning to loose their gu…” just then the enemy vessel let loose a broadside barrage into the oncoming Overtaker that instantly depleted the ship’s shielding, decimated its boarding pods and main weapons, and blew away much of the top portion of the ship including the bridge.
“Damnit, those were good men!” the commander screamed aloud to no one in particular. “Redemption eight and thirteen, swing around that ship’s starboard side and unleash hell. The rest of you, shoot to kill.”
The two redemptions drew across the starboard side of the ship raking it with PPB fire and disabling two of the main large DUCs aboard the ship. At the same time, they evaded or absorbed all return fire within their shields. The ships to the fore of the engagement surrounding Commander Halas’s own Redemption Five continued to loose their PPBs into the ship. They succeeded in destroying the enemy’s crew quarters and life support.
“They’re crippled” exclaimed Halas, “Redemptions Eight and Thirteen target the main engines, don’t let them escape.”
Just then a faint buzz was heard over the comm., “this…i…ensi…Farragut abo…Over……teen. I have con……the…engi……attempt…ram….Rebel…”
“What was that?” asked a bewildered Halas, “Are there still people alive on Overtaker Thirteen?”
Just then the tiny little vessel’s engines flared and the crippled ship turned toward the mighty Rebel battle cruiser and plunged full speed into the mid underbelly of the ship. A blinding flash lit up space as the Overtaker’s engines ignited and hit what must have been the weapons Cache aboard the battle cruiser. Explosions reverberated through the ships hull and tore it apart from the inside out
“Battle group report in” said Commander Halas in a solemn voice, “what’s your status.”
“All ships report zero to minor damage Commander” reported his first officer. “They are awaiting their orders.”
“All ships regroup into formation; make way for the second battle cruiser. Let’s try this again, without losing anyone this time.”

“I want the good news from each of you first,” commanded Lord Chagnon. “We’ll start with Vice Lord Exnon.”
“The good news, ah yes, let me see,” he thought for a moment and then went on, “Well, we have colonized several new worlds and our ship on its way towards Bastion in the Gamma Pavonis System is progressing rapidly.”
Bastion is a fully colonizable gas world in the far south of the star cluster below the Vandron’s home cluster. It holds more ancient ruins in an uninhabited system. It had been decided that Captain Impo head there instead of the previous target and begin construction of a system capital, far away from Aquilaeian Space, in the off chance that they should have to flee.
“Is that all?” asked Chagnon.
“Yes my Lord,” Exnon answered, almost sounding sorry. “With the increased production of the military vessels, there has not been much new exploration or colony ships built.”
“I understand,” replied Chagnon, “see to it that the ‘ruin worlds’ continue to get top priority.” He then turned to Mandron and addressed him, “So what have you got?”
“I’m afraid I don’t r…really have any g…good news sir. Our relations have remained the s…same with all known races. However, there is b…bad news.”
“I didn’t ask for that yet now did I,” said Chagnon a bit jokingly, but stern nonetheless.
“I’m s…sorry sir.”
“Well spit it out then, what is this bad news,” commanded Chagnon.
“Well we have m…made contact with a new r…race sir, the Klingon Empire. Unfortunately, they immediately d…declared war on us, citing something of our unworthiness, and the g…glory of battle.”
“I see,” answered Chagnon, no one else would dare speak. “And how great of a threat do they pose to us?”
“That is unknown at this time,” answered Mandron.
“Anything else then?”
“No sir,” replied Mandron as he slouched back in his chair as if having gotten a great burden off his shoulders.
“Junon, surely you have something good to report.”
“Yes, my Lord,” he began. “I finished my project on the warheads for the mines, and I believe I have reached as high a level as is possible. As for the mines themselves, I also finished my research into developing a larger size; still, I believe it would be possible, with much more research, to increase the size once more. However, I believe my time would be better served in a different area of research with the onset of this war with the Rebels.”
“What did you have in mind?” asked Chagnon.
“Increasing the range and firepower of our PPBs, sir.” He went on, “After much discussion with Defcon, we decided that in order to give ourselves a tactical advantage we must have the most powerful weapons available to us to pierce the armor and shields of our enemies.”
“Sounds alright to me, continue on with that line of research then.” Finally, he turned to Defcon, “and what news from you.”
Defcon’s face was a mix of emotions as he spoke, “Well my lord, I too have mixed news, though I fear the bad outweighs the good.”
“Go on,” commanded Chagnon, “Lets have it all then.”
“Well, sir, the Gliese Protectorate has recently engaged the two Rebel vessels in the Alpha Leo system. They destroyed both, but lost an Overtaker in return.”
“I see,” commented Chagnon. “This is to be exp…”
“If I may finish then, sir” interrupted Defcon.
“I’m sorry, go ahead.”
“The worst news however is a recent discovery Junon and I made. We recently went over everything we knew of the Aquilaeian ship designs, and found that all of their most recent designs are using self-destruct devices.”
“What does this mean for us?” asked Chagnon.”
“It means, sir,” answered Junon, “that if an Overtaker captures a ship with one of these devices on it, the ship will automatically explode and most likely destroy our Overtaker with it.”
“Those treacherous Aquilaeians,” sputtered Exnon, “they know exactly what we will try to do to them.”
“Precisely,” put in Defcon. “We will still be able to capture ships that do not have these devices, but they are not expected to be in great number.”
Just then Lieutenant Tramom, the aid to the High Command, entered the room. “My Lords, we have just received word that the Rebel colony on Alpha Leo II has completed a battle cruiser and is sending it towards Alpha Leo Prime. The Gliese Protectorate is not in range to intercept it in time.”
“We only have one option then,” answered Defcon, “we must move the Gliese battle group to take out that ship, and then we must order the battle group to attack that Rebel planet. We can not allow it to continue to produce ships that can take out our colonies at will.”
“Wait,” put in Exnon, “isn’t there an Overtaker that was just finished on Alpha Leo Prime? Perhaps it may succeed in capturing this attacking ship.”
“Yes, there is” answered Defcon. “But look what happened to the Last Overtaker that tried that.”
“Still,” exclaimed Chagnon, “we must try.” He paused and then went on, “However, I agree that we cannot allow that colony to continue to produce ships to attack us. This is a fact that I have puzzled over in my daily prayers and meditations, and I have decided that in this war, or any others, if the enemy is willing to burn our worlds, then we must do everything in our power to stop them, even if this means destroying their colonies. This may not be the way of peace, but it is the wisest thing for us to do.”
There was a moment of silence as the High Command took this in and pondered what it meant for their people. Throughout their history, the Vandron had prided themselves on their commitment to peace as well as wisdom. This would now change; they would now employ the means necessary to ensure their own survival, even if that meant destroying an enemy’s world.
Chagnon then went on, “this does not mean that we will look for a fight, it simply means that if, and when, war comes we must do whatever is necessary.”
After some more brief discussion, the High Command agreed on this new policy and set to work on the various duties given to them. In the meantime, they anxiously awaited the outcome of the upcoming battle between the lone Overtaker and the Rebel battle cruiser approaching Alpha Leo Prime.

[ September 11, 2003, 23:15: Message edited by: chewy027 ]

Re: The Walkers, updated 9-28-03
 

2406.1 – 2406.2 ~ Boarding Action

“Troops, we are the Last hope of saving Alpha Leo Prime,” began Major Evon, the commanding officer of the boarding unit aboard Overtaker Eighteen. “If we fail, then the colony falls, and all fifty-six million colonists with it.” He paused dramatically and then continued, “That is why we can not fail.” Another pause, “You all know how this works, we get in our pods, three troops to a pod, and launch over to the Rebel battle cruiser. I know none of you have ever done this live before, hell I’ve only done it live once myself and that was against a colony ship. But that doesn’t matter. We have to rely on our training and ability to make quick, wise decisions to get us through this. Unfortunately, this ain’t no colony ship; this means we will encounter fierce resistance aboard the vessel once we cut through the exterior hull. I expect all thirty of you to perform as one cohesive unit, and to come out of this alive. Keep in contact at all times, be aware of everyone’s position and situation in your individual squad, and always think before acting; following these laws will save your life.” He stopped and looked at his unit as if determining who was going to live and die and then went on, “Once you’re aboard, secure your area and link up with your counter squad to continue on. Once you have done this, make your way to the bridge and take control of the ship. Only one of the five bi-squads has to accomplish this to win the ship, but remember…it is not a race.” He dwelled on this Last statement for a bit and then continued. “From there, the remaining bi-squads will systematically move through the ship clearing out any other resistance…Any questions?” The room was silent, and then suddenly the battle claxons began blaring, “Ah, just in time…let’s move out.”

The Rebel battle cruiser and the Vandron frigate silently crept towards each other as if playing a giant game of chicken, except the Vandron Captain knew he was going to flinch first.
“All troops are positioned and ready sir,” said the Com Officer to the captain. “They only await your command to lift off.”
The captain knew that this was the most essential portion of the maneuver, if he couldn’t manage to get his ship close enough then he’d have to come around for another pass, if they survived. They had practiced and simulated thousands of times, but nothing was the same as the real thing. Ideally, you wanted to be no more than a few miles apart, any further then that and the boarding pods risked missing their mark. However, the closer they got the higher the probability their own ship would be destroyed.
“How is our heading?” asked the captain.
“We are heading straight at them sir,” came the reply.
“How many miles separate us?”
“About a thousand sir, we will be within range of launching the pods in twenty seconds.”
“Major Evon, you have twenty seconds before launch,” the captain said into the com. “May the Almighty bless you this day.”
As the time slipped away, every person aboard the Overtaker unknowingly held their breath and waited to see if this would work, they all knew exactly what was at stake. Then, unexpectedly, the Rebel vessel increased its speed and closed the distance much quicker then they had anticipated opening up a volley of DUC and Meson fire as it did.
“Launch the pods now!” screamed the Captain; those would be the Last words he would ever say.
As Major Evon’s pod broke away from the ship, he could see that it had been heavily damaged by the initial volley. There were gaping holes in the hull, and small explosions spreading throughout the ship. There was also a massive breach were the bridge had been.
“How many of our pods made it off the ship?” asked Evon to his second in command, Lieutenant Danon.
“Eight of ten sir; pods eight and five were caught in the initial volley,” replied the lieutenant.
“Amend the bi-squads to pair squads that lost their partner.”
“Already done sir,” came the swift response.
“How is our trajectory?”
Viton, the pilot responded, “We’ll make contact in five…” and few seconds later there was a loud thud as they came in contact with the hull of the Rebel Battle Cruiser.
“Sir, Pod three missed the ship!” cried out Danon.
“Those unlucky bastards,” thought Evon, “hopefully the Rebels‘ll destroy them so they won’t go crazy in that pod.”
“Ten seconds until we’re through the hull sir,” yelled out Viton over the whir of the laser cutters.
“Almighty be with us,” and with that Major Evon leaped through the opening into the Rebel vessel.
He landed on the floor and immediately went into a roll against the opposite bulkhead, dropping a Rebel trooper in the process. Lieutenant Danon and Viton came next as Evon laid down cover fire for them, narrowly missing being hit with return fire himself; two more rebel troops went down.
“This hallway is secured sir, which way do we go now?” asked Viton.
“Where did we land on the ship?” asked Evon.
“We got lucky sir; we landed near the fore of the ship, close to the bridge.”
“Good work Viton, but we’re not out of this yet.”
“Our partner squad, Four, is a level below us sir,” said Danon as he referenced his holo-projector on his wrist. “They initially encountered resistance but quickly neutralized it sir. In fact, we haven’t lost any other troops in the initial docking phase.”
“Excellent, now let’s meet up with them. Danon, where is Ten?”
“Not far from us sir, on this level.”
“Have them meet up with us then, we’ll go in as a tri-squad since three missed the mark.”
Just then, bLaster fire ripped out a chunk of the bulkhead above him. Instantly, Viton cut down the attacker in a return volley that caught the trooper full in the face.
“Let’s move out,” ordered Evon.
They made their way forward encountering light resistance along the way.
“All squads reporting advancement sir, we have taken out a total thirty-two Rebels so far sir,” reported Danon.
The sound of bLaster fire could be heard coming from below and in front of them. They turned the corner to find squad ten pinned down behind a bulkhead with five Rebel troops laying down heavy fire in their direction. Immediately, Evon and Danon dove for the opposite bulkhead dodging fire as they did. Viton pulled a grenade from her belt and hurled it in the direction of the Rebel’s as she dove in behind squad ten. The bLast took out two of them and wounded another. Then, Evon rolled across the floor, as Danon and Ten laid down cover fire. He loosed a steady burst of searing energy that cut down the injured Rebel and maimed another while the cover fire picked off the third. The maimed Rebel lay there moaning lightly for help as Major Evon approached him cautiously.
“You Rebel scum,” he sneered, “which way to the bridge?”
The Rebel said nothing, but sat up and tried to lift his weapon. In an instant he was dead as Danon seared a hole through his heart.
“Thanks for your help Major; they had us pinned down pretty tight.”
“Don’t mention it…Danon, where is Four now?” asked Evon.
“They’ve made it up to our level sir; they’re moving to meet with us now.”
They continued on down the hallway toward the designated meeting point on their holo-projectors. The noise of bLaster fire had slowly dwindled as the minutes wore on. Finally, they met up with squad Four after downing two more Rebel troops along the way.
“Sir, bi-squad Two just encountered a pocket of heavy resistance. It appears they were ambushed sir,” exclaimed Danon. “They burnt through a door and met heavy fire upon its collapse; two of our troopers have been killed.”
“So we’re down to nineteen then; alright, lets be aware of what’s on the other sides of doors from now on,” Evon said with a bit of sarcasm.
They continued on toward the bridge encountering no Rebel resistance until they came to just such a door.
“Sir,” spoke up Danon, “the schematic says that this is the antechamber before the bridge.”
“Excellent, Seven begin burning through. Viton and Four, position yourselves on either side of the door but do not go through until I do. Danon you will be behind me. I want you to throw two grenades in front of me as I dive through before you follow. Next will come Viton and Four as Seven covers them. Let’s move people”
After two minutes of melting through the door, it fell to the ground with a loud clank. Instantly Evon dove through and to the left going into a roll and coming out of it in a crouch and opening up fire on the fifteen Rebel troops that lay in wait for them. The grenades exploded and filled the room with smoke as Danon landed with a thud next to him, blood draining from his arm, though he continued to fire. The smoke actually worked to their advantage as their visors switched over to infrared and allowed them to continue to see through the haze. Evon could see three Rebel bodies strewn on the floor where the grenades had exploded. Suddenly Viton came rushing through the door and rolled in right behind the other bulkhead to the right. Evon continued pouring on the cover fire as Viton and Four came through. He caught a Rebel in the gut, and then in the top of the head as he slumped over in agony. Danon continued to shoot, though it didn’t seem to have any particular effect other then to keep the Rebels down. Viton advanced up to the next bulkhead and picked up one of the Rebel guns as one of the members of squad Four took a laser to the chest and fell down beside her. Viton knew that their body armor could ward off a glancing blow, but if a direct hit was taken there wasn’t much that the armor could do. She readjusted herself against the bulkhead to get out of the line of fire that had taken down her cover man, and called out to Evon to cover her. Evon then rolled out in front of Seven as they made their way through the door and with them laid down a barrage that cut down two more rebels. Viton then leaped from her position unleashing fire from both of her guns as she hit the floor and went into a roll. Her fire caught the leg of a Rebel trooper and separated it from his body below the knee. He fell over screaming in agony clutching the trigger of his own weapon and accidentally blew the head off of the trooper standing next to him. Viton came to a stop and threw two more grenades down the hall as she realized her own calf had been hit, though not too seriously. The explosion of the two grenades sent the wounded Rebel and two others flying and again filled the room with a haze. Evon ordered Seven to move up and take position in front of Viton while he and the Last two members of Four laid down cover fire. Seven quickly moved up and mowed down another Rebel, though the lead in that squad took a hit to the head which dropped him on the spot. That brought the total to four remaining Rebels in the antechamber to seven Vandron troopers. Viton got down onto her belly and crawled out into the haze between the two remaining members of Seven and put a laser through the throat of one more Rebel as bLaster fire whizzed over her head. Seven then took the arm off of another before catching him in the chest and putting him out of his misery. The two remaining Rebels retreated down the hall through the door that lead to the control room. As one of the troopers in Four stepped out from behind her bulkhead to follow the fleeing Rebels, she was shot from behind in the leg. As she fell she twisted and was able to pick off one of the Rebels that had come from behind them to attack her before she caught another round on the chest and fell dead. Danon rolled over onto his bad arm and unloaded a full clip of energy rounds into the remaining three Rebels that had attacked them from behind. He slowly got up and peered around the melted doorway to make sure there were no more enemies and found himself staring at three members of bi-squad three.
“Report!” yelled out Evon.
“Sir, bi- squad two has eliminated all resistance on levels four and five. They didn’t loose any more troopers after the initial ambush, and have four remaining,” replied Danon.
The leader of bi-squad three spoke up, “We cleared out levels three and two and chased these Last four troops up here, which the Lieutenant quickly dispatched. We have three troops left.”
“Danon, order the remaining members of bi-squad two up here on the double. In the meantime take an inventory of what we have available.”
They waited about fifteen minutes for the Last four troopers to rendezvous with them. After taking their inventory they had enough rounds of energy fire left, but only three grenades which were given to Viton. Just then a strange alarm began blaring and what sounded like a countdown commenced.
“Damnit,” screamed Evon, “Everyone, quickly to the bridge.” He gave orders as he ran, “Danon, Viton and Seven lay down cover fire for the members of bi-squad two and three. Four, you will follow me in after Two and Three.”
Two and Three rushed through the door and met a wave of energy fire. They estimated that there were about 12 remaining Rebels holed up in the bridge. Two Rebels were immediately felled by fire from Two and Three, but two of the members of Three and one of Two also met their deaths. The surviving troopers scattered against the bulkheads laying down cover fire as Evon and Four came through. Evon took off the head of what must have been the captain of the ship, and hit another in the shoulder. He dove to the floor as he watched two grenades sail over his head and land in the midst of the Rebels. They exploded with a tremendous boom and sent Rebel’s body parts flying everywhere. The Last members of Two and Three then jumped out and finished off the surviving Rebels.
“Now where in the name of the Almighty is the off switch for this damn self-destruct sequence?” screamed Evon to no one in particular.
Viton came running up to the control panel and tried frantically to shut it off, but she did not know what to do. This ship was slightly different then the schematics that they had been briefed on, and so they didn’t know exactly how to turn the device off. Then Danon came up and affixed his holo to the computer. He punched in a few commands and all of a sudden the alarm stopped.
“What the Hell did you do?” asked Evon in shock.
“I uploaded a virus into the computer’s mainframe” replied Danon sounding as shocked as Evon did. “Nothing in the ship will function right now, but at least it won’t blow us up.”
A loud cheer went up from the remaining ten troopers, they had made it.

“Sir,” exclaimed Defcon, “the Rebel vessel has stopped.”
“What,” said Chagnon in disbelief “has the boarding attempt succeeded?”
“It appears so my Lord. Alpha Leo Prime is reporting that the vessel is within range to open fire, but is doing nothing.”
“Praise be to the Almighty this day,” said Chagnon. “Have that vessel and the hull of the Overtaker towed into the space yard on Alpha Leo Prime immediately. Give all survivors a hero’s welcome on that world.”
“Gladly,” obeyed Defcon.
“My lord,” stepped in Junon, “what will we now do with this prize ship?”
“Well, we have two options, we may service it and add it to our own navy, or we may deconstruct it as we did to the colony ship and see what we may learn from it. I think I know which way you are leaning on this issue Junon. What do you think Defcon?”
“I would agree with Junon that it should be deconstructed. Perhaps we will learn how to build larger ships from its design. That would more than make up for the loss of one such ship.”
“See to it that it is done right away then,” ordered Chagnon.
“Yes sir,” answered Defcon.
And with that the members of the High Command went off to celebrate this small victory among the many losses that would surely come.

[ September 12, 2003, 15:41: Message edited by: chewy027 ]

Re: The Walkers, updated 9-28-03
 

I'm enjoying this story Chewy.

Re: The Walkers, updated 9-28-03
 

Thanks Mudshark...here's a little more...

Phong Confederation 18th place
Rebel Alliance 17th place
Terran Confederation 16th place
Vandron Empire 6th place
Aquilaeian Empire 3rd place
Klingon Empire 2nd place
Star Empire of Romii 1st place

2406.3 – 2406.5 ~ More Thoughts

The following is an excerpt from the journal of Lord Chagnon:

The analysis of the Rebel ship provided us with more information than even Junon expected. From it we were able to adapt our point defense weaponry to a more powerful model and we were able to configure our engines to be more efficient. We learned of meson bLasters, an energy pulse weapon, and most importantly of all, we were able to analyze the construction of the ship to develop our own light cruisers. We immediately designed the Wrath Class attack ship to supplement the tiny vessels in our fleet. These ships immediately went into production around the cluster, so that if the Aquilaeians do attack us, we will stand a greater chance of beating them back. Junon was also able to finish up his own research into combat support and a more powerful PPB, both of which were implemented in the new Wrath light cruisers. It was then decided to begin research into a new type of engine as well as more efficient repair droids. Junon believes that he can develop an entirely new engine that will grant us greater speed and efficiency then the current ion variety as well as a droid that can repair two components per tenth without a space yard present. We shall see.
After the bloody combat aboard the Rebel battle cruiser, Major Evon and his troops were given a grand welcome on Alpha Leo Prime and hailed as heroes by the people there. Indeed they should be, for if it were not for their heroic efforts aboard that ship the colony may not even be there today. Evon and the other survivors refused to be coddled, however, and requested immediate transfer to another Overtaker Vessel. We granted them this request and they are now en route to Overtaker Three in the Host of Heaven battle group, one of the ships under Admiral Nefta’s command. Nefta herself has been patiently waiting in the Parvenium System for any Rebels to make their way through either of the wormholes leading into that system. She is perhaps our best fleet commander; however, I fear her lust for vengeance. Only the Almighty truly knows how her fate will play out.
Exnon tells me that the colony ship has reached Bastion and has begun a colony there. Captain Impo will construct the essential facilities: a space yard and resupply depot, and raise a fleet for himself there. If the Aquilaeians want a fight, we’ll be prepared to give it to them. Impo will use his ships to sweep through the southern cluster eradicating the large, but undeveloped, Aquilaeian presence there. Of course, if all goes poorly, we will make our way to Bastion and try to fight our way back from there.
A colony ship has also reached another “Ruin World.” I don’t know if it was because Impo was not with this ship, but they didn’t find any new technologies to salvage. There were more mysterious ruins and clues to the great race that had once inhabited the planet, but nothing overly concrete. If this race is indeed where the Almighty came from then we still have much to learn.
Meanwhile, Mandron has continued talks with each of the races that we have come in contact with. He made some progress, though for the most part, relations remain relatively unchanged with each. He has tried very hard to induce the Star Empire of Romii to agree to a partnership with us, but they continue to refuse. Something tells me that they will agree to a partnership only when they are ready for it. However, the Rebel Alliance, surprisingly, begged us to sign a peace treaty with them, in the form of a trade alliance, after we captured their vessel. We have given them the benefit of the doubt and accepted their plea, though we have made it clear that any hint of treachery will result in a severe response from us. The Klingons continue to make idle threats as they haven’t even tried to attack us. Mandron believes that they are located in the southeastern star cluster, and hence are not in a position to bring much force against us. At the same time, Mandron has confirmed our long time speculations that there was another race on the cluster to the northeast of us. We finally made contact with the Phong Confederation. They are not a very powerful race, though we don’t know much more about them than that. Mandron initially brokered a trade alliance with them with the expectation that they would eventually become a partner to us, which they did within three tenths. At least we are making allies as quickly as we are making enemies.
Finally, Defcon reports that the Rebel Colony in the Gliese System has been wiped out by the Aquilaeians. This puts to rest one threat in that system, but sheds light on just how brutal these Aquilaeians are prepared to be. It was hoped that if war would come that at least it could be conducted away from the innocent civilians on these worlds. If the Aquilaeians will burn an enemy world that doesn’t even pose a threat to them, then I can only imagine what they will do with our worlds should they have the opportunity to harm them.
Defcon has also reported that with the neutralization of the Rebel battle cruiser, he feels there is no need to divert the Gliese Protectorate back into the Alpha Leo System. I have agreed to this, simply because of the threat from the Aquilaeians. Strategically, Gliese is much more important then Alpha Leo. The planets in that system are now capable of building their own fleet and have commenced with that. In time, Alpha Leo will have its own Protectorate to take care of any Lasting Rebel problems. However, I have one great concern with those two systems; it has been reported that a great fleet of Aquilaeian ships has been spotted numerous times in and around those systems. The strength of this fleet has exceeded twenty-five ships, nearly all of which are at or above frigate size. If this fleet were to attack either of those systems I do not think they could Last long, especially since their ships are nearly all equipped with those damn self-destruct devices. Our only hope is to draw it into either the Parvenium System or the Halifax System, our home system. Here we have the strength to defeat such a fleet, but the battle would most likely be severe. In the simulations that have been run, we have an equal chance for victory and defeat. Let us hope that the Almighty will favor us if and when that time ever comes. In the meantime, we will continue to build up our fleet in expectation of the inevitable confrontation that awaits us.

Re: The Walkers, updated 9-28-03
 

Phong Confederation 18th place
Terran Confederation 17th place
Rebel Alliance 14th place
Abbidon Enclave 7th place
Vandron Empire 6thplace
Klingon Empire 3rd place
Aquilaeian Empire 2nd place
Star Empire of Romii 1st place

2406.6 – 2407.8 ~ Humdrum

“It’s been too quiet,” thought Admiral Nefta as she sat in her command chair staring off into space. “I know the Aquilaeians are going to try something, they have too large a presence in our systems not to. Yet, as the tenths pass they continue to go on their way barely even noticing us. It simply makes no sense. What is the wisdom in tying up resources by stationing ships in our systems? Perhaps they’re just trying to scare us into not trying anything ourselves. But that makes no sense; they know that we would never initiate a war. No, the only reasonable answer is that they plan to attack. So we must be ready.” She had been having these discussions with herself for over a year now. Tactically, the Aquilaeian presence made no sense other then to position themselves for an attack, and yet the attack had not come. This is what bewildered Nefta because the Vandron fleets grew stronger by the tenth. They became larger, faster, more powerful, and better defended as each day went by, and the Aquilaeian threat began to look less and less like a threat at all. Yet deep down Nefta knew that the real reason she was tired of waiting for an attack was that she herself yearned to continue the fight to avenge her sister. To Nefta it did not matter how many victories she won against the Terrans or the Rebels or Aquilaeians. All she knew was that they were responsible, maybe not directly, but it was their fault that she was dead. It was simply the way that these galactic powers operated that was to blame. If they could just live at peace with each other Sharnon would still be here. Therefore, she had decided a long time ago that as long as there were other powers who would oppose the Vandron, she would not have her thirst for vengeance quenched. “I wish the Rebels and the Terrans would not have capitulated so easily,” she thought in disgust. “I didn’t even get a chance to fight in a major engagement in the war with the Rebels, and these Klingons haven’t even shown themselves in our systems much less attacked us; they must be a cowardly people. Yes, my only real hope for a battle now is the Aquilaeians, but when are they going to give it to me?”

“Yes, of course we will continue with our previous agreements. This is simply an upgrade over those prior arrangements,” explained Mandron as he was finishing up a partnership treaty with the Abbidon. “Think of it as us becoming as b…brothers. We will share everything, and hold back nothing.” The ambassador from the Abbidon seemed to finally understand what Mandron was getting at, and finalized the deal. With that settled Mandron retired to his quarters to rest. “I can’t believe how easily manipulated they are,” he thought to himself as he walked back to the room. “Of course, it’s not like I’m leading them into a war, ours is a peaceful endeavor that will allow both of our people to flourish,” he stopped his hurried pace to look out the window. “Still, it does seem that these Last few tenths have dragged by. Apart from the Abbidon negotiations, boring talks at best, there have been no new surprises from any of the other races.” He continued on his trek back to his room, “I almost wish the Aquilaeian would contact us, even to deliver another threat about us having a treaty with their enemies. Yes, the Aquilaeians,” he paused again, “they are always a challenge to deal with. They may be our enemies, but they’re damn good diplomats.” He had finally reached his door, “Oh well, I suppose this will be another boring night. Here’s to hoping the Almighty gives me a divine revelation in my meditations.” And with that Last thought he entered his room and retired for the evening.

“…and that should do it,” thought Junon as he was putting the final designs into the computer for simulation. “I think we’ve finally acquired the knowledge and expertise to build Cruiser sized vessels,” he said aloud to Chagnon and Defcon.
“Good work Junon, you never disappoint,” congratulated Chagnon. “So what is that now, five breakthroughs in the Last year?”
“Something like that,” replied Junon. “Let’s see, a new armor material to protect our ships, those marvelously fast contra-terrene engines, another level of religious technology, and a more efficient means to capture ships. Yes my Lord, I do believe it was five new breakthroughs.”
“So what does he turn his attention towards next?” asked Defcon. “The Aquilaeians haven’t made a move toward us in over a year, and the Klingons haven’t shown their ugly faces, perhaps we should look into something a bit less militaristic?”
“Actually, I have already begun my next line of research,” put in Junon, “or perhaps it would be more accurate to say have continued an old line.”
“How do you mean that?” asked Chagnon.
“Well, when I finished my research into that Last round of religious research, I hit onto something that may prove a decisive advantage for us militarily. However, I will need much time to perfect it, which is why I have begun it now.”
“And what is this Almighty-given technology that you have hit upon?” laughed Defcon.
“You laugh now,” replied Junon, “but you are not very far off the mark.” Defcon stopped chuckling as Junon went on, “in my research into harnessing our religious understanding and meditation, I realized that when we Vandron are in a highly meditative state, we react with near perfect exactness to the world around us.” He paused for a moment to allow this information to sink in before going on, “While that may be of little use to us, I also realized then when given a specific task, like hitting a ball or swatting a fly, the accuracy of the people within this state of deep meditation was 99.9 percent dead on.”
“I still fail to see how that can help us,” put in Defcon.
“Well then I’ll get straight to the point,” cut in Junon. “I believe we can harness this seemingly Almighty driven meditative state to make the gunners on our vessels have impeccable precision in their targeting. I do not yet know how this will be done, which is why I need time, but I do believe it can be done.”
“If that is what you wish to pursue then you may,” allowed Chagnon. “If your theories about the outcome of this research are to hold true, then no force should be able to pose a threat to our people.”
“Bigger ships would be nice,” said Defcon with a stern face, “but I suppose this would be good too,” said Defcon with as he broke into a smile. “Besides those birds aren’t going to try anything any time soon. We may as well develop this targeting technique so that if they do come for us they’ll be wishing they hadn’t.”

After the explanation of the new cruiser class ship, Chagnon went back to his quarters and received a brief synopsis of the current exploration and colonization efforts by Exnon:
All goes well my Lord. We now control forty-seven worlds across ten systems. We have again begun production of more colony ships to reach more worlds since the threat the Aquilaeians pose has somewhat diminished, and so the number of worlds we control should begin going up sharply again. Also, the exploration side of things is gong extremely well. With the new star maps we have received from the Abbidon we now know the contents of over eighty percent of our quadrant. There are only a handful of unexplored systems and wormholes left. While we do not know what races inhabit these other star clusters, we at least now know what stellar objects inhabit them. We have also learned of more worlds throughout the quadrant that harbor ancient ruins. One system in particular, the Omicron System, has three worlds with ruins. It is my belief that this may have been the home system of the race that built these ancient structures. However, it is not an easy system for us to reach. Perhaps we will meet one of the races in that area of our quadrant who can teach us more about that system. Until then, we really don’t know too much more about these ancient people. Until next time, Exnon out.

After reading this summary, Chagnon began his daily meditations. He thought on all the usual things, and said all the usual prayers. He enjoyed the serenity and peace of it, and the deliverance from stress and worry that it provided to him. He had been worried about an invasion for so long now that he had forgotten what it was like to truly be at peace. “Perhaps,” he thought, “we were all wrong about the Aquilaeians. Maybe they never intended to attack us but simply wished to prove their dominance. They haven’t made any hostile moves in over a year now; maybe we simply misunderstood their intentions.” He finally gave in to his optimism with a sign. “But what does it matter,” he finished, “we must be prepared for whatever lies ahead, and the most likely event is still war.”

[ September 18, 2003, 16:14: Message edited by: chewy027 ]

Re: The Walkers, updated 9-28-03
 

Just so you know, to whoever has been reading this, my classes have started up in full swing so i won't be able to put nearly as much time into this as before, as is evidenced by the three day layover in the latest update. I'll continue to play and write, just don't expect a whole heck of a lot each week.

[ September 16, 2003, 04:40: Message edited by: chewy027 ]

Re: The Walkers, updated 9-28-03
 

Well keep up the good work, and I'll keep readin
You are a good author, and it is a fun read.

Re: The Walkers, updated 9-28-03
 

Thanks FryeR K...here's a bit more...

Terran Confederation 17th place
Phong Confederation 16th place
Rebel Alliance 15th place
Abbidon Enclave 7th place
Vandron Empire 6th place
Klingon Empire 3rd place
Aquilaeian Empire 2nd place
Star Empire of Romii 1st place

2407.9 – 2408.7 ~ The Next Engagement

“Redemption Seven has been hit, ma’am,” said Lieutenant Kalgon to Admiral Nefta.
“How badly?” asked the Admiral.
“They are effectively out of the fight ma’am,” replied Kalgon.
“So we are down to twelve ships from our original twenty,” said Nefta to herself. “Do we have any boarding craft left?” she asked Kalgon
“No ma’am,” came the quick reply. “Two were shot down while they attempted to board a battle cruiser while the third’s boarding crew was unable to disarm the self destruct device aboard another battle cruiser and was lost in the subsequent explosion.”
“Very well,” Nefta replied, and without another thought for those lost ships went on, “Captain Orton, move your task force in to flank the second battle cruiser.”
“Yes ma’am,” came the swift reply.
Meanwhile Nefta led her task force on a head-on approach to the lead battle cruiser. PPBs lanced out from their ships and melted the organic armor covering the vessels; not one of their shots missed. Nefta’s ship took some heavy return fire from the lead battle cruiser that sent emergency claxons blaring.
“Ma’am,” screamed Lieutenant through the clamor of the claxons, “we’ve lost two of our forward PPBs and our port engine. Our shields have also been depleted.”
“Lieutenant, take us out to maximum firing range,” she commanded with ice in her voice. “The rest of the ships in task force one are to press the attack.”
Her Flood MK 1 class cruiser fell back from the front of their line, but remained within firing range. It continued to pour down PPB fire from its three remaining guns all of which squarely hit their target. Meanwhile the rest of task force one moved in around the lead battle cruiser. PPBs cut deep gashes into the ship blowing out the engines, bridge, and five of the seven gun emplacements. Captain Orton’s task force two was having similar success with their target. His five ships had all but destroyed the vessel as small explosions rippled through the second battle cruiser.
“Target neutralized,” reported Orton to Nefta. “I await your command on the next target.”
“Move in to take out that final cruiser,” came the order.
“At once Ma’am,” replied Orton.
He immediately moved his five vessels into position to attack the final ship. This cruiser had been pestering his group as they took out the second battle cruiser. It had been staying on the periphery of their formation taking pot shots as it flew by, but its fire was inconsistent and all of the damage it had dealt had been absorbed by their ship’s shielding. As soon as Orton’s task force came into range their PPBs began blazing. In the first volley, the organic armor was blown away and unable to regenerate itself. The commander of the target ship must have realized that he was the new target, as the vessel turned and vectored away from them as quickly as possible. Only the two Wrath Class light cruisers could keep up with the ship and poured fire into its aft taking out four of the main engines. This allowed the rest of the task force to catch up and loose fire of their own into the unprotected ship. At the same time, Admiral Nefta’s task force had disabled the final battle cruiser.
“All ships report targets have been neutralized,” reported Lieutenant Kalgon.
“Excellent Lieutenant,” came the steely reply, “all ships finish off the vessels; turn them into floating piles of debris.”
With that all of the ships opened fire one Last time. There was a blinding flash as all three of the final enemy ships were vaporized by the PPB fire. Then unexpectedly battle claxons began blaring again as another Aquilaeian battle group appeared through the wormhole right in the middle of their formations.
“Take evasive action,” screamed Nefta with a hint of shock and surprise evident in her voice. “Concentrate fire on the lead battle cruiser.”
Again, PPBs rained out from the vessels and the combined firepower of all twelve ships was enough to overwhelm the lead ship’s organic armor and reduce it to smoldering wreckage. However, the other four Aquilaeian vessels were also battle cruisers and they opened fire immediately after they realized what they had flown into. They caught an old Angel class escort in their initial fire and blew it to pieces as well as taking a Redemption Class destroyer effectively out of the fight. The ships also loosed a horde of organic seeker parasites. Fortunately, two of the remaining ten active ships were Shield Class defense light cruisers and they shot down all but one of the seekers which exploded harmlessly against Captain Orton’s Wrath light cruiser. The Vandron vessels continued to fight back the Aquilaeian vessels concentrating their fire on one ship at a time, never missing a shot. The second battle cruiser’s armor melted away and its innards were ripped apart by PPB fire from Admiral Nefta’s crippled ship. It hung motionless in space before it lit the view screens with a tremendous explosion, the force of which shook Nefta’s ship.
“Captain Orton,” commanded Nefta, “move your remaining four ships around the underbelly of that lead battle cruiser.”
“Yes ma’am,” came the reply, and the four ships instantly began the maneuver.
“Nefta,” screamed Orton, “the second battle cruiser has dropped to our starboard side, give us some cov…” but his voice was cut out as the battle cruiser opened fire and melted the entire forward of his ship before he could finish his plea for help.
“Damn those birds,” shouted Nefta, “All ships fire at will destroy them all,” she seethed, the hate dripping from her voice.
PPB fire and was everywhere slamming into the battle cruisers from all angles, any hint of a coordinated attack gone. A second Redemption class destroyer was downed as well as another Angel. A second later the lead battle cruiser went up in an inferno of molten steel and lifeless organic flesh. One battle cruiser remained to Nefta’s seven remaining vessels. Nefta’s ships poured PPB fire into the battle cruiser taking out the engines and almost all of its weapons. Just then one of the Shield class defense light cruisers went up in flames and disappeared in an expanding ball of gas and fire as two more Aquilaeian battle cruisers came through the wormhole and sunk their seeking parasites into the ship’s hull.
“We must pull back,” pleaded Lieutenant Kalgon. “We can not fight these ships.”
“Silence,” screamed Nefta, her emotion flowing from her like a gushing waterfall, “we will never retreat.” She turned to the com officer and ordered all ships to continue firing on the crippled battle cruiser.
The crippled ship began to break apart just as Nefta’s own Flood class cruiser was hit again with enemy fire. Explosions rocked the bridge and Nefta was thrown to the ground.
“Damage report,” gulped Nefta as smoke filled the CO2 filled air around her. There was no response. “Lieutenant Kalgon, what is the damage?” she asked again, and again there was no response. Then she saw Kalgon’s body lying motionless on the ground and she knew why she wasn’t being answered. She ran to the nav officer’s console and made the necessary adjustments to ram the lead battle cruiser with what was left of her ship. The remaining vessels in her battle group continued to exchange fire with the battle cruisers melting away the armor of one and destroying half of its engines and weapons. It was toward this ship that Nefta steered her smoldering Flood cruiser. All around her there were short circuiting and malfunctioning systems. Outside her, two more ships, one Redemption and one Shield, went up in explosions as the second battle cruiser loosed another round of seekers which could not all be shot down. Nefta’s cruiser swung around and accelerated to meet the bow of the crippled enemy vessel. The Aquilaeian ship realized what was happening and began to fire frantically at the oncoming ship. But it was to no avail; an angry screech shot through Nefta’s ship as its compartments were impacted and compressed under the pressure of the collision. A second later a searing ball of fire swept through the vessel, starting a chain reaction that engulfed both the Flood cruiser and the Aquilaeian battle cruiser.

Nefta slowly awoke on a table with glaring lights and a contingent of concerned onlookers surrounding her.
“What happened?” she asked.
“You blacked out in your sim pod,” came the reply from Vice Lord Junon. “When your ship rammed the vessel, instead of waking up from the simulation as you were supposed to, you somehow stayed attached momentarily and it caused you to black out for nearly ten minutes.”
She thought about this for a second and then asked, “Were we victorious over the final battle cruiser?” asked Nefta.
“Yes,” answered Vice Lord Defcon. “The final Redemption was able to destroy the Last battle cruiser after it too was rammed by the crew of the remaining Wrath light cruiser.”
“So we won,” she said more to herself then anyone else.
“Yes you did, and against a larger foe,” replied Defcon. “You performed brilliantly up until the end at least.”
“What do you mean by that?” asked Nefta.
“Well you see,” put in Lord Chagnon, “we wanted to see how far you would go…if you would fight to the end or pull your ships back once the battle turned against you. You had already won against the odds Nefta, yet you continued to press the attack even after two more small battle Groups appeared through the wormhole. Do you feel that was wise?”
“Without a doubt,” came her icy reply.
“But you died,” pointed out Chagnon.
“And I won,” she replied
“I thought you’d say as much,” said Chagnon. “Do you not think that it would have been wiser to fall back and save the five ships that were limping away from the fight? There was a well defended space yard but a sector away from your position. You could have docked there and repaired your battered battle group.”
“I would have lost the advantage of surprise my Lord,” she replied. “When the enemy ships appeared through the wormhole they were initially blind to our presence. That is why we were able to destroy some of them so quickly.”
“I understand that Nefta, but you are not completely answering my question. Perhaps I should phrase it differently; was it wise to sacrifice the simulated lives of your remaining battle group when you could easily have regrouped and lost none in a later battle?”
“From that perspective, it was not a wise decision. But,” she quickly followed, “it was tactically wise to press our advantage. I had no way of knowing that those enemy battle Groups would come through the wormhole.”
“Point taken,” said Chagnon, “but you must not forget the fact that a war can not be one in a single engagement.”
“I understand,” said Nefta, the steeliness returning to her voice.
“Still,” finished Chagnon,” your tactics were brilliant and your sacrifice admirable. I would not want to be an enemy commander facing your battle group.”
“Thank you my lord,” replied Nefta and then went on after a pause, “what was the accuracy of our gunners.”
To this question Junon again spoke up, “the accuracy was ninety-nine point nine percent on all shots fired. The single errant shot came when a PPB hit a seeker instead of a ship.”
“So this meditative technique really works then,” she said reflectively.
“Yes indeed it does,” said Junon. “After nearly a year of research I believe we have finally developed the means to have nearly one-hundred percent accuracy in engagements. How else do you think you were able to win?” finished Junon, only half jokingly.
“I still won,” she shot back, not joking at all.
“Nevertheless,” interrupted Chagnon, “this new capability will make our fleet much more formidable. However, it will take much time to outfit our ships with the provisions necessary to contain our gunners in meditation chambers while in battle.”
“At least now is as good a time as any to retrofit our fleet,” volunteered Vice Lord Exnon, “especially while we are producing as many colony ships as we are.”
“We can discuss this later,” put in Chagnon, “now I believe it wise that we allow Admiral Nefta and her crews to rest a while before they begin their next engagement.” He turned to Nefta, “and Admiral, see if you can try to go about your future engagements looking at the situation from all angles. And please, try not to give us any more scares,” he finished with a smile.
“I will try my best,” she said, and then after a short pause finished, “though I can make no guarantees.”

[ September 19, 2003, 03:55: Message edited by: chewy027 ]

Re: The Walkers, updated 9-28-03
 

All i can say is Sweeeeeet!!!! http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon10.gif

Re: The Walkers, updated 9-28-03
 

2408.8 – 2411 ~ Ruminations in Time

The following is an excerpt from the journal of Lord Chagnon:

These past years have gone by without much incident, and it is for that fact alone that I am well pleased. It seems that every tenth that goes by lessens my fear of an attack from the Aquilaeians. This is not to say that my vigilance has waned, on the contrary, Vice Lord Defcon sees to it that it is forever in a heightened state. However, the constant weight of suspicion and dread has indeed diminished from my consciousness. I do not think the Aquilaeian threat is any more or less than it has been in the past, but I do believe that they have perceived our growing strength and can no longer take us as lightly as they once must have. The time of their intimidation has come and gone and we have been made stronger because of it. Again, I must not let myself sound confident in this fragile peace however. Vice Lord Mandron assures me that their attitude towards us has not warmed in the least, and that they still continue to ignore our transmissions. At the same time, they too have grown much stronger. Through their wars with the Rebel Alliance and the Terran Confederacy, they have managed to gain control over the majority of our cluster and the majority of the cluster to the south of us. While tactically our position between the two star clusters is very sound in relation to the Aquilaeians, their overall strength remains much greater then ours. This is a situation that our space yards work endlessly to correct, our captains, especially Admiral Nefta, work tirelessly to overcome, and our scientists, led by Vice Lord Junon, work incessantly to reverse. “It will never be said that we Vandron were a people who were ill prepared for an invasion,” Defcon routinely intimates to me. It is through displays like this that I recognize that through all the strife our people have experienced and have expected to be thrust upon them, we have not lost our ability to recognize the wisest course of action and seize upon it. There are those among us, however, who have argued that we should abolish our means of agitation, namely our military, and make a concerted effort to pursue a pacifistic means to peace in our quadrant. And while I would agree with this notion in principle, it is not one that in good conscious and clear thinking I can agree with in practice. While I still hold the pursuance of peace above all other goals, I will not needlessly sacrifice our ability to protect ourselves; especially through a decision that appears to be as unwise as destroying that ability. It is through this line of reasoning that I have continued to govern and guide our people. We have continued to expand and update our navy, colonize new worlds, and research new technologies all with the express goal of being prepared for the worst case scenario. It is my duty to remain steadfast in the protection of the Vandron people despite what some within their ranks may perceive to be the wrong means of leadership. Nevertheless, we are in a state of relative peace, and I have every intention of keeping that state constant.