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Newbie Galactic Combat II - Story Thread
Weyrlings
Mon, Nov 18 at 07:33:30 EST WEYRLINGS 2403.4 ================ "-Sire", the colonel was always afraid when he approached the God Emperor Ruatha, you never knew what humour he'd have, sometimes it amused him to chop off heads before lunch. "-Yes, What is it", Ruatha answered impatiently, wifting his tail high in the air. "-The Sons of Thunder has asked for a trade, they want Ice colonization tech from us, they will give us plenty in return". The Colonel had his tail pressed to the ground in the humiliating ritual that the God Emperor Ruatha demanded of all subjects that approached him. "-What is the problem then, make the trade" "-But, but.. We don't have Ice Tech, Sire" "-Well, do they know that? If so why do they bother us, anyway they should be destroyed, kill them all!" "-Sire, we're not at war with them, and they have a mighty fleet." "-Not at war, we're always at war, with everyone, they just don't know it. We'll, don't kill them today then, but arrange the trade. And I want a spy report of their leaders face when he realizes he's been fooled!". "-Instantly Sire", the colonel responded, withdrawing backwards, almost hurting with ache from not being able to show his claws in anger. The colonel went immediately to the Free Council and reported the events. The Free Council was outraged at this provocation that might cast the Weyrlings to war. The Colonel accepted the task set upon him by the Free Council: To decline the trade and then take his own life, so that the God Emperor Ruatha wouldn't find out about the Free Council if he chose to torture the Colonel instead of plainly executing him, one never knew what mood the God Emperor might be in. The war wouldn't start today at least, the Colonel thought as he slit his throat, watching the picture of his wife and children as the blood poured from the cut arteries. Re: Weyrlings Tue, Nov 19 at 01:26:04 EST WEYRLINGS 2403.5 ================ The Free Council was in meeting. "-We must do something, the God Emperor Ruatha is quite mad, and more and more of the population are showing symptoms of madness." "-Yes, these symptoms have increased these past 200 years, ever since The One became dormant." "-It must be awaken again!" The Free Council was referring to the Weyrling Common consciousness that had ruled Weyrling society up to 200 years ago. 200 years ago the Weyrlings first made contact with an alien species. Seeing that the alien individuality had made the aliens prosper and develop technology unknown to the Weyrlings. The One decided to transform Weyrling society to an individual one instead of a collective and went to sleep. The decision had been a good decision initially, the Weyrling scientists, now unhindered by common goals and any need to listen to others started researching various areas, quickly gaining space travel capabilities. But now the stress of being individuals started to show in Weyrling society, psychic illness, previous unknown was flourishing in the society. The feeling of loneliness was enormous. "-Do we all agree?" "-Aye" "-Yes" "-Of course"... The vote was unanimous, the One must be brought back. "-But how can it be done? None has any real influence on the One, the few of us can't wake it our self, I guess the whole population would have to concentrate to do it, and in the state many are now I don't think they would agree to it!" "-There is another way! A scientific group has on the order of the God Emperor Ruatha been working on psychic weapons, they believe some of those weapons might be used to wake the One. But the God Emperor Ruatha has forbidden any further research in the area." "-No, it must be continued. Can those scientists be trusted?" "-Most of them yes, those who has travelled to far down insanity road has entered other projects, mostly doomsday weapon projects. But some still continue the psychic research in secrecy. One of them is my mate.", Said Marit the Warrior. The Free Council issued a mission to Marit, wake the One by all means before was too late. Re: Weyrlings posted by: tbontob Posted Wednesday, Dec 11 at 3:34 AM Wed, Dec 11 at 03:34:08 EST The war council was in full session. Ministers and generals were poring over maps of star systems. The society was under assault by an implacable enemy and a solution had to be found to win the day. Finally, a general stood up and declared he had a solution to the crises. In a loud stentorian voice he stated while pointing with his baton “We take our defensive forces from these four locations and bring them here”. Once our forces have joined, we make a massive push against our most hated enemy, break through into his system and push on to obliterate his home world. Pandemonium erupted! Yells and screams drowned out any further comments the general had to make. “My wife and children live there!” “It would mean as much as 10 billion dead if the enemy should decide to attack those areas from which we have withdrawn our forces.” “My investments would be ruined!” “The enemy could take this opportunity to drive on to our home planet and incinerate it!” Amidst all this commotion, a courtier ran into the room and approached Zaxxon, the central speaker. Three times the courtier had to repeat himself before Zaxxon understood the import of the message. It took 5 minutes to bring the meeting to order. Zaxxon then stated that our esteemed intelligence service has uncovered that the “God emperor, Ruatha is mad!” Zaxxon went on to say “This is a heaven sent opportunity to eliminate a rival.” The room went deathly silent as each person tried to put the information into some sort of perspective. Finally, a small, reedy voice from the back of the room asked, “Where did our intelligence service get this information.” Zaxxon: “Our espionage operator penetrated the inner circle of power of Ruatha’s homeworld.” Reedy voice: “And where is Ruatha’s homeworld?” Zaxxon: “We don’t know” Reedy voice: “How can we eliminate a rival if we do not know where he is?” Zaxxon yelled: “We’ll find out!!!!!!!!” Reedy voice: “We have always been a nation of peace. What has Ruatha done to warrant us to want to eliminate him?” Zaxxon starting to turn beet red, screamed: “He must have done something! No one is perfect!” Reedy voice: “So you are suggesting we make war on a nation which may be inclined to be friendly with us, when we can barely defend ourselves against our present enemies?” Everyone stared at Zaxxon as it started to sink in that Zaxxon mind may have become unhinged by the stress of the conflict. Forbidden thoughts came to the surface of many in the room:the one who is mad may not be Ruatha but Zaxxon! Zaxxon collapsed under the many thoughtful stares. And had to be carried out on a stretcher. Re: Weyrlings Wed, Dec 11 at 02:10:59 EST WEYRLINGS 2403.6 ================ Avrel Kopre, Intelligence officer in the Divine Intelligence Service tried to blend into the background as he approached the throne. "-Excuse me Oh graceful God Emperor" He managed to say. The God Emperor Ruatha quickly turned around and stared at him "- What?" "- The empire of the CCCP demands that the exploration ship V'ger be withdrawn." "- Demands???! This demands action! Call for the generals! Call for War!" The God Emperor Ruatha was working up into a frenzy. "Kill them all!", turning to the guards he pointed at Avrel, "Chop his head off!". Quickly the closest guard severed Avrils head from the body with a quick movement of his claws. The head physician moved forward pressing the hypodermic injection probe towards Ruathas skin, Ruatha quickly slumped back into the throne. "-KILL, Kill, kiiiiil l l ", he started snoring. The Master of Ceremonies quickly raised his voice: "- The God Emperor Ruathas Words has been fulfilled, the traitor is killed", he turned towards the Generals. "Now, you fix this within the hour, report to me your decision and I'll put it to the God Emperor when he awakens, he is open for suggestions at those moments...." The Divina Armed Forces Head Committe was in meating. The discussion was short and concise, there was really no options. Aliens could never be allowed to dictate Weyrling foreign policy, V'ger would go on. A message was sent to the CCCP stating that more information was needed as to the meanings of the demands. The Weyrling exploration forces had several times accepted alien requests to abstain from exploring their territories. But this was something new, a race demaning that they stop exploration of another races territory, trying to stop other races from meeting and setting up peaceful treaties. More information was needed, but the prospect of war was clearly felt in the room. All efforts would be made to avoid it, but if it came, the Weyrlings would be ready! Re: Weyrlings posted by: tbontob Posted 21 hours ago Thu, Dec 12 at 05:33:24 EST Zaxxon gradually awoke to the murmuring of? "The Zaxxoness has move to Estonile with the children and has?" "to become unhinged by the war with the CCCP and?" "I know the position of Central Speaker is an appointment for life, but there must be something that can be done when our leader goes batty as a fruitcake." Opening his eyes, Zaxxon notices that he is in bed. Around him, small Groups of nobles, ministers and military officers are talking is soft tones. He motioned his friend, Eston to approach and asked about the talk about his wife. Eston looked down at his feet and stumbled for words? "Please Eston, tell me the truth!" "Well, your wife left for Elstonile with the children and?" "When I am unwell, she leaves on a trip?" "Yes, she has relatives in the systems which the general wanted to withdraw forces from and?" "Yes, yes" "And well, uh she, uh, ahem, was offended that you did nothing to stop the discussion of removing the protective fleet in the system in which her parents reside." "What! The meeting was in an uproar! We didn't even have the chance to discuss it" "Well, ahem, she feels if you loved her, you would have done something to stop it. And since you did not, you could not love her." Zaxxon groaned in pain and then asked. "What do you propose, my friend?" "Well, I recommend you go after her and apologize to her on bended knee. And if necessary beg for her forgiveness." "But Elstonile is in the opposite end of our society. It would take weeks to get there! And more weeks to return! What am I to do with the crises at hand?" "Hmmm, that is a problem. If you leave, you will have abandoned your post as the central speaker. Abandoning a post in time of war is treason and you can be hung for it." "Whaaaat?" "Yet if you do not go to her, that will be proof to her that you do not love her." "How can she do this to me?" "Well, in her mind, love conquers all. So if you do not do battle to go to her, then you must not love her." Zaxxon collapses back into the bed in shock. Eston coughed, "Ahem, there is another matter. We have lost contact with our espionage officer in Ruatha?s court." "How is that? I thought it was impossible to sever contact with an operative." "We don't understand it. He had an undetectable organic transmitter in his neck connected to his brain stem. The only way to prevent Avrel Kopre from contacting us is to separate his head from his body." Zaxxon mused, "This Ruatha is a formidable ruler of nations. No one has been able to detect our spies before and yet at a stroke he was able to ascertain who our spy was and do the one thing that would sever our contact with our spy. He must be a genius par excellence!" "Yes, if we ever meet, we must be sure to give him many gifts to assuage any anger he may have towards us." Zaxxan asks "And what of our war with our hated enemy?" Eston replies "Nothing has changed. We are waiting for any instructions you wish to give." Re: Weyrlings Fri, Dec 13 at 02:16:26 EST WEYRLINGS 2403.7 ================== The Weyrling Intelligence committee was in session. “- I do believe this was the first wise decision Ruatha has ever made. Do we have any means to detect these spying devices?” “-No. It was pure luck. When Avrel Kopre’s remaining ashes were transferred to the box the device fell out. The only way we have found to detect it is by seeing it or feeling it, and that is probably impossible when it’s in it’s proper place, which location in the body that is we still don’t know. It’s a totally alien technology.” “-Where does it come from?” “-We haven’t the slightest clue! But the empires who are most suspicious right now is either the CCCP or the Sons of Thunder. We have recent intelligence analysis saying that those are the most threatening empires right now. But we still don’t have enough data to blame anyone.” “-I believe that there is a massive secret invasion force in our empire, fitted with these devices. Trying to infiltrate our governing structure. We must put all officials and officers in the empire under surveillance. We have the cooperation of the secret police and the military in this. All personnel must move in Groups of three , a military, an intelligence officer and a member of the secret police. There will be a total curfew, around the clock. All scientific research will be aimed at finding a way do detect these devices, we estimate that there might be millions or billions of them in the empire.” ----------------------------------------------------------- The Weyrling society came to a halt. A total curfew was enforced throughout the empire, anyone found outside unaccompanied by a military, an intelligence officer and a secret police was executed. The corpses were littering the streets. People were starving in the homes, food was being delivered but the logistic problems were staggering. The people wasn’t happy! The God Emperor Ruatha knew nothing of this, no one told him. He still issued orders as usual, and as was more and more common these days most of them were ignored. [ February 21, 2003, 23:25: Message edited by: Ruatha ] |
Re: Newbie Galactic Combat II - Story Thread
Re: Zaxxon of the Zax's
posted by: tbontob Posted 1 hour ago Fri, Dec 13 at 03:51:10 EST Days had passed since Zaxxon relapse. One day, he would be overwhelmed by his need to see his beloved Zaxxoness. He would call out his retinue and preparations would be made for the departure to Elstonile. He would only change his mind when his good friend Eston spoke of "treason" and the certainty of his death by hanging. Zaxxon would then be depressed for days. Then he would be overwhelmed by his love for his beloved Zaxxoness and again he would give orders to travel. Eston would again convince him that the Zaxxoness would rather have a live and responsive Zaxxon than a dead one. This cycle repeated itself over and over. Zaxxon lost weight. His scales lost luster and hung limply from his frame. He became hollow-eyed and his bright red skin turned to a mottled pink and yellow patchwork. Zaxxon started to mumble about his Zaxxoness...how beautiful she was...her incredible gentleness...her loving gestures...how delicate she was...her sacrifices...her inability to defend herself, both verbally and physically...and how he must have offended her so deeply for her to leave him. He found it increasingly difficult to concentrate on sociey matters. His lack of attention to matters of import, meant that the society was becoming rudderless at a time when it could least affort to do so. The society was beginning to fall apart. Finally, Zaxxon could take it no longer and begged his friend to go to the Zaxxoness and convince her of his undying love for her. "Tell her how much I love her and how much she means to me. And how much I love the children. But do it gently since she is of a very delicate nature and so easily wounded." Eston prepared for the journey to Elstonile and left the next day with a retinue of loyal Zax nobility and castle guards. Zaxxon's spirits lifted with the making of this decision and was again able to focus on matters of importance. He wanted to know more of the organic device that was used to spy on Ruatha's court and asked to see Spiii, head of his intelligence agency Spiii had this to say: They came upon Avrel when he was a student 20 years ago. He was in a serious accident and during the operations to repair his body they were able to implant the device without his knowledge. It was only by sheer good luck that Avrel became an Intelligence officer in the Divine Intelligence Service. The organic device needs power to transmit information but as the body is a poor producer of electrical energy, it can be dormant for years until the person becomes emotionally charged. Then suddenly the message of Ruatha's insanity came through loud and clear. We believe that Avrel must have had such a deep, undying love for his emporer/god, that his deep distress over Ruatha's condition resulted in enough energy to transmit the data. Zaxxon asked "Then this device is really of limited usefulness?" Spiii thought and then reluctantly resonded with "Essentially yes" Zaxxon: "So not only did we go to inordinate expense to implant the device, we did it on the very remote chance he may be associated with Ruatha and not become a simple cobbler or baker." "Yes" "Well, if I was Ruatha, I would be laughing my head off! He must believe we are total incompetents to do something like this! We do not know if Ruatha is mad, temporarily mad or if only Avrel thought he was mad and he really is sane." "Uhhh..yes" "So, this device did nothing for us! We do not know if Ruatha is really sane or not. And as such, it contributes little if anything to our knowledge base of Ruatha and his empire." "Uhhh...well yes" "Dolts! The purpose of espionage is either to improve our situation of make the other's worse in some way. Neither of these things happened! Let's just hope Ruatha never finds out about it for the logical conclusion would be that we are so stupid that we would be easy prey for his empire!" Spiii agreed with, "You are right! I will see to the entire revamping of our espionage bureau to ensure all future expenditures meet those requirements." "See to it! I would be particularly interested in what you can learn about the CCCP." |
Re: Newbie Galactic Combat II - Story Thread
THE LOCATION: JUST OUTSIDE OF THE ENTRANCE TO ELSTONILE CASTLE.
The trip to Estonile castle was uneventful but somewhat subdued. Each member of the party knew the importance of effecting a reconciliation between Zaxxon and his beloved Zaxxoness. They had just arrived. The drawbridge over the moat to Elstonile Castle was down over the moat which was a good sign. But the portcullis was also down and it barred their way into the castle. But this was not necessarily a good or a bad sign. Eston requested admittance to Estonile Castle. After a short wait, the Zaxxoness appeared high up in the tower over the entranceway and wailed, "Where is my husband?" Eston replied with "He is not here, my lady. But I have some very important Messages from him which he wishes I convey only to you and personally." The Zaxxoness's hand flew to her cheek as she exclaimed "Oh!". Eston then observed her rushing towards the stairs of the tower. Eston sat down to await the appearance of the Zaxxoness. His heart was filled with joy as he contemplated, "The lovebirds miss each other terribly. Now all he had to do was effect a reconciliation between Zaxxon and his Zaxxoness and then he could go home to his own family." ================================================ THE LOCATION: THE SEMI-OVAL OFFICE OF ZAX CENTRE Zaxxon was energized. Knowing that he would soon be reconciled with his Zaxxoness, he was able to pour his energies into state affairs. A courtier came in to inform Zaxxon of the acting Research Director request for an audience. "Acting?" "Well, the head of the department has suffered a stroke and is in the hospital. Shall I show him in." "Yes, yes" The acting head had a somewhat strange appearance. He was fat, being somewhat rolly-polly and seemed to lean backwards from the waist as he approached Zaxxon. "What is your name?" "R2D2" "That is an ususual name?" "Yes, apparently, my parents saw a foreign movie and thought the name fit me." "How so" "They never outright told me. But they seemed secretly amused whenever I asked them. At times it almost appeared as if they could hardly contain themselves from laughing." R2D2 continued with "But I know they only wanted the best for me! My father was a Research Director level 3/security clearance 3. They shortened 'Research''2nd level''Director''2nd level clearance' to R2D2. That is one explanation. But sometimes they said it was a contraction of 'Research & Development'. It was terribly confusing to me. They assured me this was their way of encouraging me to not be satified with Research Director level 3/security clearance 3." "Interesting! So what did you want to see me about?" "Well, my superior focused on propulsion but we seem to be going nowhere with it." "What do you mean?" "Well, he wanted to research reverse speed so that if a battle seemed lost, our ships could 'get out of Dodge' fast." "But don't all our ships have inertial dampeners?" "Yes" "And doesn't this mean that they can turn on a dime?" "Yes, and thereby speed away instantly." "So he wanted to have our ships 'back out' rather than 'turn about' to leave?" "Yes sir. We probably would have propulsion 7 or 8 by now if we hadn't invested so heavily into reverse propulsion." Zaxxon color was rapidly turning red "So, change it!" "Well, being only 'acting' head of the R & D department, I don't have the authority to change research projects." Zaxxon's countenance started to turn purple at the incredible stupidity of things. Only seeing the court physician surreptitiously pulling out a hyperdermic needle, gave him cause to restrain himself. Tightlipped with stress, Zaxxon could barely whisper "The acting head of R & D has all the rights and privileges as the head of R & D." "Oh! May I take my leave to make some changes?" Barely containing himself, Zaxxon whispered "Yes" ================================================ THE LOCATION: THE SEMI-OVAL OFFICE OF ZAX CENTRE THE TIME: SOME HOURS LATER After some hours of rest, Zaxxon was able to function again. "Spiii wishes to see you, sir." "Send him in" Spiii rushes in to report on the reorganization of the espionage department. "Good news, sir! We only have 1,138,297 operatives with the device in Ruatha's empire." "What! 1,138 thousand?" "And 297, sir" Zaxxon groaned. If Ruatha should find out about this, they would most certainly be at war. "And you are sure the device is completely undetectable?" "Yes sir! And not only that, but the emmissions are broadband and radiate out in all directions, so there is nothing at all that will connect us to them." "Thank God!" However, in spite of the reassurances, Zaxxon was uneasy for Ruatha was a mighty ruler and only the foolhardy dared to anger him. "There is something that we cannot make sense of, sir." "Yes" "Well, you know the person must be 'emotionally charged' for the device to receive enough energy to work. In the past we would receive information on a mixture of 'unhappy' events and 'happy' events. The death of a wife, discovering a son has cancer, being fired from a job, being charged with a criminal offense are just a few examples of 'unhappy' events we would receive." Spiii continued "Happy events would be things like winning the state lottery, the birth of a son, getting a contract for 100,000 widgets, an ugly spinster getting married are some 'happy' events we get." "Yes, yes, go on" "Well, recently, we are only getting massive numbers of unhappy events. There are no happy events at all! And not just the regular unhappy events, strange ones, like a son or daughter starving to death, indiscriminate arrests in the middle of the night, babies dying because they cannot get medical attention because of some curfew in effect, executions without due process of law, just to name a few." Zaxxon exclaimed "Thank God for some good news!" "Pardon" exclaimed Spiii as he tried to comprehend how Zaxxon could be so happy over the sufferings of others. "Since we had nothing to do with the crisis in Ruatha's empire, he cannot blame us it!" Zaxxon was actually jubilant! Zaxxon continued, "And furthermore, he will be so distracted by the terrible events happening in his empire, that even if he should somehow happen to stumble upon the device...I know, I know you claim it is undetectable...but even if he should somehow stumble onto one of the devices, he is unlikely to notice or pay much attention to it because of the crises which requires his attention." Zaxxon was so happy he didn't notice Spiii quietly leave the room. EDIT============================================ Apparently Ruatha didn't post his update to his empire. As my update to the workings of the Zax empire is dependant upon the workings of the Ruatha's, I give his update here... ============================================== Posted by RUATHA The Exploration Committe was in session. "-We have been ordered by the Divine Intelligence Service to turn back V'ger. And as the domestic state of the empire is at right now I concurr. We can't really fight any war now, the empire is shutting down. Furthermore, if the CCCP has such advanced technology that the mind-control device implies, we do not want to fight them. And not to forget, so far the CCCP has been honourable towards us, wich is more than we've been against them!" "-But to turn back a exploration ship on the demand of aliens! This will set a dangerous example. Who nows what we might find if we jump through the wormhole that V'ger is parked at? Are we such cowards that we are afraid of mere aliens?" "-Nothing we can find there will solve our current crisis, we cannot risk to enrage the CCCP anymore. V'ger will turn back. We will explore that part of the universe, but not now, not with V'ger! It's not about courage, well not so much about courage as about survival!" [ December 15, 2002, 19:48: Message edited by: tbontob ] |
Re: Newbie Galactic Combat II - Story Thread
Weyrling Empire 2404.2
===================== The curfew was lifted. The society could not operate with it. But the streets of the empire was still deserted, every here and there you could find a small group of people hurrying home with precius food supplies. Most people were afraid, there was no way to know if your neighbour or the shop assistant at the shop around the corner was being controlled by aliens through an invisible mind control device. There was no news of how they had been incorporated into the bodies of the victims. It was known that the devices must have been in place for a long time, as there was no difference in the way those with devices and those without behaved, it was assumed that the aliens had thourogh information of the Weyrling society. So far 78 devices had been found, most couldn't be traced back to an individual. The mass deaths had resulted in mass cremations, 2-300 people being incarcerated at once, and the ashes being searched afterwards. ------------------------- The free council was in session: "-How is progress on the device to awaken The One going?" "-Badly, all research has been shifted to means of detecting these mind control devices. But we do belive we will make some progress in psychic technology within one year. That might be enough to create something that can awaken the one.", Marit replied. "-We must hurry. The mass hysteria caused by the mind-control devices has increased the spread of madness. Estimates is that more than 10% of the population is completely nutters. It's hard to be sure as most are isolating themselves in their homes." "-We will do our best, as always. Let's just hope it's enough." "-On the positive front, our relationship with the CCCP is improving. Rumors now implies the Infernal Realm as being the master minds of the mind-control device plot. But we do not know why those controlled hasn't started their attack yet, it might be that they aren't ready yet." "-Yes, the Infernal realms people are so ugly, their demonic appearance haunts me every night. I'm afraid we warriors hasn't done much damage to them yet, one colony ship is all that we've destroyed, and that was even before the war started." "-yes, we should be grateful that the Thermolians has destroyed most of that Infernal realm's fleet. Did you hear that Ruatha wanted to start a war with the Thermolians when he heard that, he thought they had robbed us of the glory of destroying these wile creatures. I belive he really thinks we are at war with the Thermolians now, thankfully no one heeds his commands anymore." "-I agree that it's good that he is almost powerless. However that has left us in a power vacum, no one rules at present." "-Soon, The One will awake and set all things right...." [ February 21, 2003, 23:15: Message edited by: Ruatha ] |
Re: Newbie Galactic Combat II - Story Thread
THE ZAX SOCIETY
================================================ THE LOCATION: JUST OUTSIDE OF THE ENTRANCE TO ELSTONILE CASTLE. Eston was happy, contemplating a quick resolution of the marital difficulties between Zaxxon and his Zaxxoness. Five minutes passed... He thought of the love Zaxxon had for his beloved Zaxxoness. It showed in many little ways. There were the little touches and quick glances of affection that often passed between them. It also showed in the gifts he gave her as he showered her in material things, jewels, works of art and property such as Elstonile Castle. Fifteen minutes elapsed... He reminisced on the the laughter which they exchanged. The quick wit and the repartee that went with their verbal parrying. It was a joy to see... Thirty minutes slipped by... He reflected on how they met. It was love at first sight. The Zaxxon was absolutely captivated by her beauty, slenderness, softness of features, delicate physical frame, emerald green eyes and ... He was interrupted in his reverie by the gong which signaled the evening meal in the castle. An hour? Where is the Zaxxoness? He went up to the portcullis and signalled to a beefy soldier to approach. The soldier, a hardened veteran of many wars was festooned with tattoos all over his chest, arms and back, approached Eston. He fixed Eston with a hard stare and said, "Wad ya want?" "I want you to take a message to the Zaxxoness and tell her..." Eston noticed that the soldier started to sway, tremble uncontrollably and eyes twitch. "What's the matter?" Eston asked. "Please sir, anything but that! I don't want to be rewarded again!" "Rewarded! Talk sense, man." "Sir, it is a long story. A year ago, the Zaxxoness heard of a ritual the humans have...the bubblebath. Apparently the females of the species love to sink into a tub of it and it relaxes them. It is even coming into favor for human males to use it without having to fear ridicule, just like they now can go into a beauty parlor to have the spikes on their heads trimmed." Voice trembling, the soldier continued "Well the Zaxxoness bought carloads of the stuff. If you look you can see 10 boxcars of the stuff on the railroad siding there. Must be 20 tons at least." "Anyways, I had disturbed her with an urgent message and she rewarded me with a bubblebath. It was fabulous! As I relaxed more and more, my pleasure escalated. Soon, I had no control over my muscles at all and slipped to the bottom of the tub." "I would have drowned except for a serving girl who noticed the bubbles rising to the top of the bubblebath as I expelled my Last breath." "Sir, I want nothing more in the world than to perform a service such as delivering your message. I'd sell my soul for another bubblebath." "But the rational part of me tells me I am addicted to it. To cope with my addiction, I now attend Bubblebath Anonymous. I try to observe the 12 steps faithfully, but I am barely hanging on as it is. So, if the Zaxxoness should offer me another bubblebath, I don't think I'd have the fortitude to say no to it...I want it so badly." "And then I would be either dead or so hopelessly addicted to it that I would have no hope of redemption." Eston couldn't help but pity this proud yet defeated warrior. His battle scars and tattoos were no defence against the soapbubble. He thought, "I will have to find another way to get a message to the Zaxxoness!" ---------------------------------------------- THE LOCATION: THE SEMI-OVAL OFFICE OF ZAX CENTRE Strong-of-the-Arm Custor entered the room with "Sir, you wished to see me?" "Yes, how is our war with the CCCP going?" "Well, we are barely holding our own. They made a probing attack at the Big Horn system which we were able to turn back." Strong-of-the-Arm Custor continued "Then there is the attack at the Little Big Bugle system but fortunately it was mined, so they lost their ships in the minefield." "So we are holding our own?" "Yes sir, but as I said at the meeting we must bring our forces together and ..." "Yes, yes I know. We will discuss it later.", Zaxxon interjected. He didn't want to make a decision on that issue until he had reconciled with his Zaxxoness! "Well then may I take my leave as I must get back to the defence of the realm." ---------------------------------------------- THE LOCATION: THE SEMI-OVAL OFFICE OF ZAX CENTRE Zaxxon was feeling good, knowing that the silver tongue of Eston would bring his Zaxxoness back to him. He was in conference with Spiii. "So what do we really know of Ruatha?" "Sir, what we know is only what we can deduct from inferences." replied Spiii. "And what is that?" "Well we infer that Avrel suffered a heart attack or stroke, brought on by his distress over his belief that Ruatha may be insane." "From that we infer, that Avrel must have had a deep and abiding love for his emperor...so much so that it caused his death." Spii continued, "There is also civil unrest, but it doesn't appear to be directed against Ruatha. If it were, there would be riots and attempts to depose him. This fact with Avrel's deep love for Ruatha leads us to the inescapable conclusion that he is deeply loved by all his people." "And finally, we also believe he may be a great warrior. We get unclear Messages about his involvement in the war with the Thermolians. Since the Thermolians have been wiped out, it would appear that he is the cause of their demise." Zaxxon replied, "I truly envy him. To be so deeply loved by his people. And to be such a general as to wipe out a race. Whereas, I can barely hold my own against the CCCP..." |
Re: Newbie Galactic Combat II - Story Thread
Stardate 2404.4 Weyrlings
========================== In the Weyrling military headquarters: "-Did you hear what happened to our task force that was sent out towards the Infernal Realm?" "-No, what?" "-They were on their way to glass a civilian planet, our first real target. No real opposition was expected, it was meant to put the fear of the empire into those demons. When our task force arrived at the small planet they struck some infernal devices called mines, in an instant all ships were destroyed!". "-Mines, what is that?" "-A cowardly weapon! They put war heads in space around the planet, when our ships arrived the war heads went off and exploded. The Infernal Realms military didn't even stay to watch the carnage. They dumped these mines and ran before we arrived, the cowards. They killed the innocent crews on all four destroyers! Now all those million demons on that planet can go on with their miserable lifes instead of being, *cough*, liberated by us." "-So, will we send any more ships?" "-No, it took that taskforce over two years to arrive at the front, the war will be over before any more ships arrives." "-Does Ruatha know?" "-Ofcourse not, no one has told him. We can't tell him, he might blame the military and order the execution of all military personnel. The intelligence service wouldn't delay in complying with that order, even though it would cast the empire into even more chaos!" "-But why hasn't the Intelligence Service informed him?" "-Those cowards! They are afraid he would blame it on bad intelligence and order all intelligence personnel executed. And ofcourse, if he did, it would be our duty to comply and rid the empire of all intelligence scum." "-I see. Any news on the Mind-Control Devices?" -"No, the intelligence service is keeping a tight lid on all research, we might have to do something about that. Let's go and talk to admiral Elyssandra, she might now what to do!" |
Re: Newbie Galactic Combat II - Story Thread
ZAX Society
============================================ THE LOCATION: JUST OUTSIDE OF THE ENTRANCE TO ELSTONILE CASTLE. Eston was in a quandary. He had a mission to accomplish. Not only did the health of Zaxxon depend upon his actions, but also the very survival of the society may depend upon it. So, he could have "ordered" the guard to relay his message to the Zaxxoness. But the distress of the guard was so great, that it brought out his deep sense of compassion. He decided to wait for the changing of the guard. Almost eight hours, after midnight, the changing of the guard took place. But when Eston made his request, the new guard exhibited similar signs of distress. Eston decided wait a further 8 hours. Morning dawned. With the changing of the guard, Eston approached the new guard on duty and made his request. The guard started to tremble and sweat... "Are you addicted to Bubblebath as well?" Eston asked. "No sir, but I heard about it." "Then why are you so afraid?" "I have seen the deep longing of my fellow soldiers for another bubblebath. I have participated in holding them down as they exhibited severe signs of withdrawal. It is not something I wish to experience." Eston could not bring himself to order the guard to deliver his message and turned back to his camp. ================================================ THE LOCATION: THE SEMI-OVAL OFFICE OF ZAX CENTRE Zaxxon was happy. That morning, he had leaped out of his bed with a heart bursting with joy. He thought, "By now, the silver tongue of Eston must be doing its work. Why, even now, the Zaxxoness must be preparing for the trip back to him!" He felt that nothing would affect his feelings of happiness and well being. This was going to be a great and momentous day! His thoughts were interrupted by "R2D2 wishes to see you, sir." "Send him in" R2D2 burst in with "Sir, I have changed the funding for the research and development projects. "Great. Tell me abo..." "Well, I reduced the funding for reverse speed by 5% and put the 5% into researching propulsion. This way the research into reverse speed will not be lost and we will eventually get the next level of propulsion." Only then did R2D2 become aware of the beet-red color of Zaxxon and of the court physician pulling out an empty hypodermic needle from the arm of Zaxxon. "Whaaaaat?" R2D2 exclaimed. "If you value your career, I would suggest you put some more thought into the projects you are funding." the court physician interjected. ================================================ THE LOCATION: THE SEMI-OVAL OFFICE OF ZAX CENTRE THE TIME: 2 hours later Zaxxon was beginning to emerge from his 'short nap', when Strong-of-the-Arm Custer burst in with "I must see him!" "Sir, we must do something!" Going to the maps, he continued, "The CCCP is showing increased activity at these three locations! We must pull our ships of the line from this location to bolster our defenses." Zaxxon started to tremble and hyperventilate when he realized that the system Custor wanted to abandon was the system where the Zaxxoness's parents lived. Zaxxon again felt the prick of a needle and fell into a deep sleep. ================================================ THE LOCATION: THE SEMI-OVAL OFFICE OF ZAX CENTRE THE TIME: 3 hours later Zaxxon had almost fully recovered from his 'inoculations', when a courtier announced that Spiii wished to see him. Zaxxon said, "Well Spiii, I hope you have some good news!" "No sir! We have discovered that the CCCP has subordinate allies. A number of them are assisting the CCCP with resources, ships, intelligence and God knows what else." This time Zaxxon hardly felt the pinprick. ================================================ THE LOCATION: THE SEMI-OVAL OFFICE OF ZAX CENTRE THE TIME: 1 hour later "Dip-low-Mac-Sea, the minister of foreign affairs wishes to see you sir." Zaxxon responded with a weary "Send him in" Dip-low-Mac-Sea said, "I have some bad news, sir." "Well, it couldn't be any worse than what has happened so far!" "Two more empires have declared war on us." This time a hypodermic was not necessary as Zaxxon passed out with the shock of the announcement. |
Re: Newbie Galactic Combat II - Story Thread
Weyrling Empire - Dawn, the new beginning. 2404.5
================================================= It was an ordinary day in the God Emperor's palace, orders were issued without being obeyed, heads were rolling and guts opened, the blod pouring out of the throne chamber, Ruatha was in a good mood. "Send in another wench!" He screamed after having killed his Last rape victim (in full view of the 234 attending persons in the throne room). The High Guard closest to Ruatha twicthed the wiskers in a nervous manner, the High Guard's tail whisped slowly back and forth while pressed to the floor. Suddenly the Guard reaches for his beam wepon, steps forward and points it towards Ruatha, no other High Guard seems to react. "-Death to the tyrant", the high pitched noise of the beam blends with the splatter of God Emperor Ruatha as he is split in the middle when the Guard sweeps the beam from Ruatha's head to the floor. Now the other High Guards finally reacts, drawing their weapons and aiming at the killer. The former High Guard moves his warm beam weapon upwards and points it towards his own head: "-Long live Zaxxon, ruler of all , oh, sorry, I mean.. Long live the free Weyrlings, freedom to the people!" As he presses the trigger the high pitched noise is this time abruptly ended by the splatter of the exploding head. [ February 21, 2003, 23:13: Message edited by: Ruatha ] |
Re: Newbie Galactic Combat II - Story Thread
Weyrling Empire, A new sun arises. 2404.6
======================================== The provisional council was in session: Admiral Elyssandra as acting chief of state was leading the procedings: "-What is the state of the realm?", she asked. "-Well", the general next to her replied, "It's quite odd, but the moral has never been higher. We belive those prone to panic were mostly killed in the recent disorders. The Empire has responded well to the quick takeover by us military, as we have provided order. That you Admiral has been appointed Chief of state helps, as you are seen as an honourble leader. Most remember your efforts in the short "Sons of thunder War" which you won singlehandedly with that weapon platform." Elyssandra spoke again, "-Good. Now we must make plans for the future. The fleet must be strenghtened. Surely some external forces might try to take advantage of the situation. Also we must send more ships to the Joint Alliance Force, so far our contribution has been laughable. We must prove ourselfs to the alliance now so that they don't turn against us. General elections can't be held in any predictable time, I will continue as Chief of State for as long as needed. We have already seen to a quick building program for the fleet, and we have a general defence plan for the next three years. Now to another matter, we must find out who made us the favour of disposing of Ruatha. I'd like to thank them but of course they must be punished severly. High Guard Anjel who assasined Ruatha made a somewhat confused statement before taking his own life. This Zaxxon he mentioned is unknown to us, it has been proposed that he might have been mad, or the sanest Wyerling around if you'd like to see it that way. Most evidence hovewer points towards the "Free Council". I'd hate to punish them as I do belive they are true patriots, but if we can't find anyone else to blame soon we will have to point the guns towards them. If you haven't been informed of that underground movement, you ought to know that they are trying to awaken The One, these efforts are inofficially supported, but officialy we don't know of the existance of that "council". We do know that the insanity still continues to rise in the population, the proportion of insane Weyrlings has decreased due to the recent events but the rate of affection increases. So far we haven't found any cure, and this insanity was unknown during the unity under The One. So, to work. Strengthen the fleet, and let's find those behind Ruathas death!" __________________________________________________ __________________________________ A public statement was made through all embassys to the alien civilizations: Ruatha is dead, Matriarch Elyssandra now rules the Weyrlings. Death to all enemies of the Weyrling people and may their friends prosper.In the few systems in wich conflict with others might arise, the fleet strenght was raised. [ February 21, 2003, 23:14: Message edited by: Ruatha ] |
Re: Newbie Galactic Combat II - Story Thread
THE ZAX SOCIETY
================================================ THE LOCATION: ZAXXON'S BEDCHAMBER OF ZAX CENTRE Zaxxon was screaming. The high chamberlain ran into the room in response to the anguished cries of his Zaxxon. He had to shake Zaxxon with increasing roughness until Zaxxon awoke. He was wild-eyed, pale and shaking. "You had a bad dream, Sir." "It was so vivid, so real." "What Sir?" "I dreamt I was being sliced in two, from my head to my foot. Blood was everywhere!" "Just a nightmare, Sir!" "No, it was more than that! It was so vivid, so real...so extraordinarily real!" "Well,..." "What does it mean?" "I could ask the court physician, Sir" "Yes, ask him to come at once!" ============================================ THE LOCATION: ZAXXON'S BEDCHAMBER OF ZAX CENTRE THE TIME: 30 MINUTES LATER. The court physician was saying "From what you tell me it can be no more than a bad dream..." "No, no! It was more than that!" interjected Zaxxon. "Well, I think we can help calm you." said the court physician as he prepared a hypodermic. Zaxxon went hysterical, "No, no. I don't want to go to sleep. I may dream it again!" "Hmmmm. Well, if you will calm down, I will not give you an injection." "Yes, yes. I am calm, I am calm!" said the wild-eyed Zaxxon in a trembling voice. "But my dear Zaxxon, we need to resolve this." Zaxxon was so disturbed that he didn't notice the court physician and the high chamberlain had moved to a corner of the bedchamber and were discussing his situation in low whispers. "We are at a loss Sir as to how to explain this event and its significance. We will put it before the council to ascertain how we should proceed. Is there anything we can do for you, now?" In a trembling voice, "I just wish my Zaxxoness was here now. I could relax in her..." Zaxxon stopped, turned red and amended with "I meant with her." "Well I am confident that Eston and the Zaxxoness are on their way here at this very moment." ================================================ THE LOCATION: JUST OUTSIDE OF THE ENTRANCE TO ELSTONILE CASTLE. Eston was starting to panic. He called a meeting of the Zax nobility who had accompanied him on the mission. "Well, it seems obvious that she will not meet with anyone unless it is her Zaxxon." said one noble. Another responded with "And if we cannot meet with her, then our mission is doomed. What could we tell Zaxxon? He had such high hopes for a reconciliation." Everyone looked at each other, hoping against hope someone had a solution. Seconds passed. Seconds turned into minutes. Everyone had a haunted look. "Ahem, I may have a solution." said the guard who was in charge of the flap to the tent. "Ignore him. He is only a guard! What does he know of matters such as these!" said one of the nobles. "Insufferable!" said another. "Low class... The guard persisted with "But, I may..." "Do you want to be dishonourably discharged from the service without a pension." shouted a noble. Eston stepped in with, "Gentlemen, gentlemen! We have not come up with a solution. I do not want to go back to the Zaxxon and tell him our mission was a failure." When the nobles had the opportunity to digest what Eston said, he continued with "I propose we allow him to tell us his idea." Grudgingly, the nobles saw the wisdom of Eston's words and gave permission to the guard to speak. "Well, it seems obvious that the Zaxxoness will not meet with anyone but her Zaxxon. And the Zaxxon cannot come here. So, the only solution is to pretend the Zaxxon is here and wants to see her. Once you have an audience with her, you can plead your case." The meeting turned into an uproar. "That's terrible you would suggest such a...." "To lie to the Zaxxoness..." "You actually suggest we use deceit? "She could lay charges if we did such a thing!" Unanimously, the nobles turned down the guard's suggestion with utter contempt! Sadly Eston said "I do not want to return to Zaxxon to tell him the bad news. Personally, to avoid that, I would try almost anything." "But, I however much I would like to try it." he continued. "I cannot do it without your help." Zaxxon concluded with "So if this mission fails, it fails because you are not prepared to risk offending the Zaxxoness." The nobles all responded with, "My ethics do not permit me to lie... "It is not right! "To even imply that we do such a thing... To a man, the nobles agreed that they should return to Zax central forthwith. Sadly Eston said, "Yes. I will report our failure to the Zaxxon. It is likely he will ask if we have tried everything. If he does, I will have to tell him "No." because I didn't have your support." Eston continued with "We should realize our society is imperilled with the war with three empires. How well our society performs depends in large part on the Zaxxons health and enthusiasm." The nobles responded with "Maybe so, but to demand we lie..." "My conscience will not allow it." "Sometimes we just have to accept things." Eston quietly said, "But I think we have a law which says that if by action or inaction a person imperils the society, he could be hung." The nobles went into shock and then suddenly said: "Our Zaxxons health is paramount." "We should do our duty." "It is only right that we do what we can to reconcile the Zaxxoness with the Zaxxon." "I am sentimental and want to try to get these lovebirds back together." "How do you propose we do it?" Eston asked the guard. "Well, if it was the Zaxxon, he would be accompanied by a retinue of nobles dressed in their finest silks and literally dripping in jewels. To do less may expose you." The guard continued with "Then, I would suggest you pretend that Zaxxon is in the litter. Make sure the litter openings are closed with silks, give the reason that the Zaxxon is ill and requires immediate attention of her physician." "Here, here!", the nobles shouted happily, each thinking of the silks and jewels they would like to have. Historians would write that it was not only the nobles inner sense of duty and loyalty to do the right thing and but it was their compassion for the lovebirds which unwaveringly led them to change the course of history. |
Re: Newbie Galactic Combat II - Story Thread
Weyrlings: The Surprise.
========================= Date 2404.9 The Weyrling Empire: "-Why so silent?", Asked Matriarch Elyssandra and continued: "I realise that the sudden change in the Earth alliance's stance towards us is a bit unexpected, but it's also an opportunity we must take advantage of." "What has the intelligence service to tell us about the situation in the Earth Alliance leading up to these events?" "-Well", the intelligence liason officer begun, "President Sheridan seems to have disappeared, no one knows of his whereabouts. As he was the initiative taker to our military alliance, the alliance between us turned to dust the moment he disappeared. We have heard rumours of a military takeover in the Earth Alliance. It can be that the military there belives that we are weak after Ruathas death and want's to take advantage of the situation. There has been some speculation that by launching the Early Warning system satellites in the Irith system we might have provoced this attack. Remember that the only ship lost so far is the ship that deployed those spy satellites. The good thing about those spy satellites is that they have picked up the traces of two Earth Alliance destroyers, the Lexington I and the Claymore 4 moving towards the Kadok system. " Matriarch Elyssandra responded: -"These spy satellites, they are armed, right? Can they be used to defend the Kadok system?" "-They are well armed yes. But against two destroyers? They wouldn't stand a chance. And they aren't in any defensive position anyway, they're located out in an unimportant sector in the system. The idea being that they should spy, not fight." "Well then. It would seem that it's up to us in the military to solve the situation, as we always do.", Elyssandra replied and turned towards her military chief in command: "What forces do we have in the region?" "-Not that many I'm afraid. The Hunter class fighter carrier Endavour is currently loading supplies in the Kadok system. It was scheduled to depart that system next month, and then there would have been no ships there. The Hunter class carriers are an old design. They haven't been improved since the construction almost two years ago. But still, they are the largest ships we ever built. And if I may say so, we haven't made any finer ships since! The Endavour is carrying seven Tie Deceptors and 28 Advanced Tie fighters, the ship itself is heavily armed with two large Depleted Uranium cannons of the highest tech class. In practice combat we've hseen that a single Hunter stocked with fighters can easily take out two of the most advanced destroyers we are able to build. So if the Earth alliance dares to enter the Kadok system they will regret it! In the near systems we have two special ships, the PC Alpha class light cruisers Gurkan and Tomaten, they aren't that well equipped for combat but will propably take out a destroyer in one on one combat if needed." All attention was turned towards Elyssandra as she started moving her tail from side to side, the excitement the prospect of war made in her was obvius to see. "-So, we haven't had a good fight since the small Sons of Thunder war almost five years ago. Granted, this war didn't come were we expected. We are poorly prepared but that will only make it a bit more exciting! It's time to get some target practice. If we're lucky we might consolidate our territory in a far more cost effective way than we had planned. This way we don't have to trade an entire system for a few albeit strategic important still economic worthless small planets. These are the orders for this month: One, the Endavour is to move into an defensive position and intercept the Lexington and Claymore if they enter the Kadok system. Two, the Light cruisers Gurkan and Tomaten will be rerouted towards Kadok at highest speed, there they will join with the Endavour and create the task force "Fast Reply", the PC Alphas will defend the Endavour that will be the main offensive unit. Three, The Intelligence service will start doing their job properly, we shouldn't have been as surprised as we were by this attack. Four, start the construction of mine sweepers and a new offensive force in the area. Five, probe all Earth alliance channels for a peaceful resolution to this. I'd hate to back down, but Sheridan has been our friend and for his sake we will have to try to spare some Earth Alliance lives. Six, two of the warriors Body 2 class destroyers at Kalzeron VIII will be stocked and ready to leave next month. I'll take command of them and head into the combat zone with them. Seven, initiate a strengthening of all borders, others might try to take advantage of this situation. Eight, tell the scientists to look for any connections between the mind control devices and the Earth Allince, they migh have been planning this a long time. Nine, send a request to the Central Power alliance headquarter that they stay out of this. If they join this there will be no way to stop the annihilation of the Earth Alliance, and altough we will fight, I'd rather have the Earth Alliance as neighbours than radiated ruins. To sum this up: We will whip those Earth Alliance asses so hard they will never forget this lesson." Rear Admiral Ayles stod up and stared at Elyssandra: "Admiral, sorry i mean Matriarch. I'm glad that it's you who are leading us now. If Ruatha would have stayed in power we would have been doomed. You Madam has proven your combat skills before. I speak for the entire empire when I say that we are yours to command! Let's fight!" Everyone left the room with their tails eagerly moving from side to side. ----------------------------------------------------------- The Free council was in session: Marit spoke up: "- We must speed up the attempts to awaken the one. Things are happening that must be stopped. Rumours has it that Elyssandra turned down partnership with one of the most powerful races in the known galaxy. And now this war with the Earth Alliance. I've served with Elyssandra during the Sons of Thunder war, she is an excellent commancer but I think she is too eager to fight. She is truly military from the inside out. I can't understand why the Earth Alliance attacked us like this! We've been friends as long as we've known them. They were one of the first races we discovered out there. I mean, if it hadn't been for them we would still be a one planet race! We must hurry up, the madness in the empire isn't stopping. Most people don't think about it anymore since Ruatha died, but the madness still increases, without the one we are lost. |
Re: Newbie Galactic Combat II - Story Thread
Re: Zax Society - A matter of money
posted by: tbontob Posted Less than 1 min ago Tue, Jan 28 at 05:35:59 EST THE LOCATION: The War Room of Zax Central. Strong-of-the-Arm Custor was finishing his monologue with "...and so our enemies have been making probes in strength all along our defensive line. Here, here, here, here, and here! We are holding, but just barely. What we don't understand is that the probes are only by the allies of the CCCP. But if this continues, they will overwhelm us! We must do something!" The meeting broke up into an uproar. "What do you propose?" Zaxxon asked. In order to appear more commanding, Custor raised his body to his maximum height and said, "We should take our fastest ships and strike here! It would mean leaving our slower ships with their rapid-fire weapons behind, but if we strike fast and hard, we should win the day." The meeting broke out in a multitude of screams and howls. Zaxxon was starting to sweat, because it was just an occasion like this that his Zaxxoness made her decision to leave for Elstonile. After some minutes, Spiii was able to ask "And what if a strong fleet of ships of the CCCP are waiting there for you? You said they have not participated in the probing attacks." Custor responded with, "I cannot see how they can be there! But even if some of the CCCP forces were there, we can handle them!" "But what if they are all there?" Custor responded with "They won't be! We must take an aggressive posture or we will surely lose the war to them. Our attempts at peace are getting us nowhere." Spiii addressed the council with "Unfortunately, I must agree with Strong-of-the-Arm. Intelligence operations against our society have increased in both frequency and severity. They are mainly perpetrated by the CCCP's most eastern ally and we can only expect things to get worse. We need more funding to repel these espionage and sabotage assaults...." "Is there any good news?" Custer stepped forward with "Well, we did take a strategic Warp Point. But now, we must keep a fleet there to defend it." THE LOCATION: The War Room of Zax Central. THE TIME: 60 minutes later. Zaxxon "So, we are agreed! We are not ready to conduct a major military assault! But, we will increase the tax rates on all sources of income increased in order to have sufficient funds to construct a new fleet." Above the "Hear, hears", a minister was heard to say "I would also suggest we make it a war crime to wastefully waste the society resources!" Above the chorus of "Hear, hears", Zaxxon asked, "Could you be more specific?" "Yes sir! It would be a war crime punishable by hanging. That is... if anyone were caught misusing the states money or resouces in any way. To give it teeth, there would be no exceptions and no defence can be raised against it. The act of doing it would be enough!" The "Hear, hears" reached a crescendo. Zaxxon said, "So be it. We will call it the War Measures Act." THE LOCATION: JUST OUTSIDE OF THE ENTRANCE TO ELSTONILE CASTLE. Eston and his retinue were planning to leave on the morrow and were busily packing their belongings in preparation for their trip to the luxury provincial capital of Sod Dum. He asked for the name of the soldier who was so helpful. "Loy Al tew deBone, Sir" "Well, ask and see if he can accompany us on the journey to Sod Dum. We will make it worth his while to do so." THE LOCATION: Sod Dum, the provincial capital. THE TIME: A day later. Eston was watching the excited nobles ordering their new clothes with their gold thread, pearls and precious gems inlaid into the fabric. He was more apprehensive over the selection of rings, necklaces, bracelets, pendants and other jewellery. He knew these noble were not rich and could not afford to pay the cost of their new clothes or their jewellery. At first he had objected. Strenuously objected. But Loy Al tew deBone assured him that only the richest nobles accompanied Zaxxon on his trips. The Zaxxonness had a keen eye and to select anything less would risk exposure. Eston sighed as he was being measured for clothing that was so rich, he could never pay for it even if his lifespan was quadrupled. He reassured himself with the thought that the fate of the society depended upon him and him alone in facilitating a reconciliation of the Zaxxon with his Zaxxonness. In such circumstances, how can the society not support his actions? Even so, Eston was shocked when he was presented with the bill! It was enough to buy three battle cruisers of the line. THE LOCATION: THE SEMI-OVAL OFFICE OF ZAX CENTRE Zaxxon sighed as he contemplated the draft of the War Measures Act. "We must all make sacrifices." he said and signed the act into law. He was tired. He was still having weird dreams, only now it was of birds and elves. So disturbing, he would wake up in the middle of the night in a cold sweat. He knew the birds were significant in some way. What were they. Wrens? Starlings? And the elf had a name...what was it? Elyssandra! Wasn't Elyssandra an elf in that book the humans thought so much of...the Hobbit? No, not the Hobbit.... "What about the Zaxxonness? Why haven't I heard anything?" R2D2 replied, "Elstonile is on the opposite end of our society, sir. It's much too early to have any communication." "This is ridiculous! Not knowing for weeks what is happening in our empire. Can't we research an effective means of communication." "We can", R2D2 responded "but that would mean cutting back on our research on reverse propulsion even further." "What do you mean?" Zaxxon asked in astonishment. "Well, 50 percent of our resources are going into researching reverse propulsion." Only the concerned look of the court physician and the physician's act of picking up his medicine bag caused Zaxxon to refrain from exploding. "Reduce it even further and put it into researching communications. And Spiii, see what you can learn about the god-emperor Ruatha." "Why sir?" "I can't explain it. I just have these weird dreams." Zaxxon paused and then continued, "Also, post a reward of 1,000 Zaxxonites to anyone who can discover a way of communicating over long distances. Maybe that will spark enough interest to find a way to communicate with Ruatha and the Zaxxonness." [ January 29, 2003, 00:06: Message edited by: tbontob ] |
Re: Newbie Galactic Combat II - Story Thread
Weyrlings 2405.3
================== The private diary of Elyssandra Eliason, Grand Admiral of the Fleet, Matriarch of the Weyrlings and Hero of the Empire. Location: Destroyer Responder, Taskforce Elyssandra Flag. ----------------------------------------- Standing here in my quarter staring out into space, my inside feels as empty as the view in the windows. Problems, problems, problems. Always something that needs my attention. Trouble is brewing everywhere. The one thing that finally gave me some exhilaration since Ruatha’s death turned to nothing. The Earth Alliance cruisers Lexington 1 and the Claymore 4 turned and ran as fast they could. The new leader of the Earth Alliance started talking of peace and restoration of the alliance almost before we knew the alliance was dissolved. No combat for me and my fleet this time it seems. We can’t really blame them for the destruction of the spy ship, it wasn’t supposed to be there, and it was an Earth alliance system after all. Deniability, we can’t even mourn our lost crew in public, they never existed. We must go and retrieve the remnants of that ship; we owe it to that crew. I really hate those mines. Now we’ve lost five ships to these mines throughout our history. No enemy in sight and then unexpected death. Never again. I shouldn’t have let that ship face those mines alone, they should have had mine sweepers with them, what was I thinking of? Ordering the intelligence service to increase surveillance but not instructing them how! Always, Always specify what you want done Elyssandra, into every detail, do never forget that again!! But who could have expected the Earth Alliance to cancel the Military Alliance, it had Lasted for so long! I should have expected it, never trust anyone but yourself! But, alas. New threats are looming at the horizon. Oh to feel combat again and rid the mind of all thoughts. The initial anticipation and exhilaration turning towards fear as the enemy approaches, then nothing, cold as ice inside when the guns start vibrating through the hull and the shields screech while trying to fend of the incoming fire. And finally, the liberating victory, to still be alive contrary to all expectations before the engagement. Those who made me hero of the empire don’t know the fear I felt as the Sons of Thunder Destroyer approached my small weapon platform, statistically we would have been dead within minutes. Pure luck I think, ingenious strategic and tactical mastermind, the military headquarter called it. Combat. It might not be as far away though even if the Earth Alliance turned and ran home. The Central Power headquarter is controlling half our fleet at this moment. Operation Sledgehammer is proceeding as planned. I might just get there in time to take control of the Weyrling part of the operation. Although no one doubts the success of the operation it’s still one of the most dangerous situations we’ve put ourselves in, not even the lunatic Ruatha posed such a threat to the empire. This operation will make a massive resource drain on the empire, if the FMA attacked during the operation we wouldn’t stand a chance. But so far they do seem to be preoccupied, let’s hope that continues. I’ve given the diplomatic corps the mission to forge a new treaty organization, the JOint DEfence Treaty organization (JODET), that ought to alleviate any threat of an FMA attack. Seeing this empty space outside makes my thoughts wander. I haven’t seen Illian, loved husband for three months, my heart aches. It’s probably for the best though. I can’t stand hurting him anymore, so this separation is a relief as well. I must divorce him, I know that, but I cannot, cannot, it hurts so much! If only he knew how much I love him, but he mustn’t be allowed to realize that. Oh, Illian, how did it come to this, we were always so good to each other. And now the empire has parted us. As always we must do our best for the empire, after all, there must be a place left for our children to grow up in. I remember when I first realized you were in the underground movement. Your confused scientific mind could never keep such a secret from an organized officer as me. You kept leaving compromising documents lying on your desk plain to see. I burned so many of them, yet you never wondered what had happened to them, knowing you, you had probably forgotten they existed. I’m glad all the children had moved out, they would have known instantly as well, had they still lived at home. I didn’t know what to do in the beginning. My duty to the empire would have made me report you. Ruatha would probably have had us both killed then, still that wouldn’t have stopped me. But my love for you did, 34 years together and you can still spark that fire in my heart. I couldn’t tell you either, you would never have continued in the underground then and risked my life. After reading your documents I started understanding what you were doing and why, and I do agree, The One must be awakened. Only you have the mind needed to finish that task. That was what most attracted me so long ago, your smart head, always running hot with ideas and thoughts. So what was I to do then? I started distancing myself from you, turning away in bed, not answering when you spoke to me at dinner. You have tried to talk to me about our relationship but I always refused. Hurrying to work, saying that the affairs of the empire were more important than you, I lied. You are most important to me by far, but if you don’t awaken The One I’m sure I’d loose you anyway. The imaginative ones are easier targets for the madness it seems. The whole empire is about to crumble and fall in upon itself, I’ve seen the madness spread. These Ruathians must be a sign of the madness, more people are worshipping him now than when he was alive. And then it was mandatory, you were obliged by law to worship him. Now I heard they want to build a huge statue of Ruatha holding a shoe in his hand, they must be mad! I’ll have my secretary draw up the papers for the divorce and send them to you. It will probably come as a shock to you, but I can’t go on seeing you everyday, loving you and at the same time trying my best to hurt you. If I’m lucky I might get killed in this Sledgehammer operation. I’ve heard they’ve made a new flagship for me, the Indestructible. So it doesn’t look like I’ll have that escape route, damn! What I’d really want to do is to take you with me on a starship, we’d fight our way out to the unexplored west. Rumours says that there are strange civilisations out there. And great wars. Nothing substantial, probably mostly drunken bar imagination, but the CCCP ambassador looked a bit embarrassed when he denied that they were at war, so who knows. I heard my crew telling stories they’ve picked up in bars while speaking to CCCP traders. There was this story about these funny aliens, dying from bubble baths!. What we do not know, we make up histories about! You’d love that story Illian! If we can get all known civilisations to sign up on the JODET maybe we will get permission from the CCCP and the Ghouls to explore the far west after you’ve awakened The One, if you still want me then. Trying to kid myself! I’m Matriarch of the Weyrling Empire, spanning over more than hundred of inhabited worlds. When will I get opportunity to go exploring? This might be the Last time I ever get on a spaceship. So I won’t turn back to Kalzeron anytime soon if I have a say. And as Matriarch, I do believe I have some power to wield! Those Ghouls. They scare me. Their harsh attitude, always angry, never friendly. Can there ever be peace with such as those? No, I’ll drop all these thoughts and go out to the bridge. This young inexperienced crew will jump at the opportunity of an unexpected combat exercise. I’ll contact the destroyer CP Refound and order them to make an attack round on us, that’ll take my mind of these idle useless thoughts. Oh, Illian, I miss you so. [ February 21, 2003, 23:27: Message edited by: Ruatha ] |
Re: Newbie Galactic Combat II - Story Thread
Re: ZAX SOCIETY, A Diplomatic Message
posted by: tbontob Posted Less than 1 min ago Mon, Feb 3 at 12:07:49 EST ------------------------------------------------ THE LOCATION: THE SEMI-OVAL OFFICE OF ZAX CENTRE THE TIME: STARDATE: 2405.4 THE PEOPLE: ZAXXON, R2D3, Dip-low-Mac-Sea, Spiii R2D2 was speaking of the current crises. "The people are going crazy, sir. Thefts and assaults have quadrupled. The only thing to be grateful for is that homicide is down by 20% and that is only because the mind of the populace is on other things." "What are you talking about?", Zaxxon asked. "The reward, sir." "The reward?" "Yes sir, the reward of 1,000 Zaxxonites for a improved communication device." "Oh, yes the reward, what about it?" "Well, it is a fortune, sir. Even a reward of 1,000 Zaxxonoles is a fortune to most people. But to give 1,000 Zaxxonites..." Zaxxon interrupted, "So what has the reward to do with the crime rate?" "Well, the stores were quickly sold out of electronic components. After that, the crime rate quickly escalated. People starting ripping electronics out of any source they could find. Half the street lights no longer work and the ones that do is only because the military are guarding the lights that remain. Then the people starting assaulting anyone whom they suspected of hoarding the electronics they needed to create a improved communication device." R2D2 continued with "Homicide is down only because the people's attention have shifted from dwelling on the rage and anger they have against their spouses, employers etc to creating the new device. Some deaths have occurred due to conflict over acquiring some electronics, but remarkably few so far." "I see, any other effects?" "Well industrial production is down because production plants can't get the electronics they need and foodstuffs are in short supply because labour intensive crops are rotting in the fields." ------------------------------------------- THE LOCATION: Sod Dum, a provincial capital. Eston and the nobles were busily packing. The purchase they had made had tripled their baggage. More money had to be spent to buy luggage to store the purchases of days past. They also had to hire additional porters to carry the baggage and guards to protect the wealth the baggage contained. Everyone was happily bubbling except Eston. The nobles in particular were happy because they were doing their duty for the society. They dwelled on the enormous sacrifices they had made...sacrifices that should be written up in the history books. They may even be given the title of "Saviours of the Society". They also daydreamed about the effect their new finery would have on their friends and relatives. The fact that their newfound wealth would raise their stature in Zaxxon circles was something they did not care to dwell upon. They preferred to think and dwell upon the extreme sacrifices they had made to reunite Zaxxon with his Zaxxoness. ----------------------------------------------- THE LOCATION: THE SEMI-OVAL OFFICE OF ZAX CENTRE THE PEOPLE: ZAXXON, R2D3, Dip-low-Mac-Sea, Spiii THE TIME: An hour later. A courtier rushed in. "Sir, there is a rumour that someone has made contact with the Wreylings." "Who made the...." "How did they...." "When did they make contact?" The courtier replied with "I know little more. But the city is abuzz with it." Dip-low-Mac-Sea said, "I will excuse myself from this meeting sir. I would like to prepare a diplomatic message to the Wreyling Empire." "Do so, and report to me as soon as you have prepared it." ----------------------------------------------- THE LOCATION: THE SEMI-OVAL OFFICE OF ZAX CENTRE THE TIME: An hour later THE PEOPLE: ZAXXON, R2D3, Dip-low-Mac-Sea, Spiii "So what have you got?" Zaxxon asked. "This is the message, I would suggest you send." Dip-low-Mac-Sea said and started to read from his prepared document. "Greetings, God-Emperor of the Wreylings. May you live and prosper to the full stature of your years. May you live longer than the normal allotted lifespan given to Wreylings. May you continue to govern your empire in the style and manner you are accustomed to. In particular may you continue to do more and greater deeds for which you are renowned throughout the universe. May you exact your most severe revenge against all the enemies who oppose you. May your enemies suffer the worst possible torture in this world and in hell. May your enemies' kinfolk and friends suffer in this world and in hell. May anyone who has said the slightest ill-word against you or your descendants in the next ten thousand years suffer the worst possible torments. May you be able to exact your revenge in full measure against anyone who expresses any criticism of you or your reign. May you and your descendants rule the Wreyling Empire for the next 10,000 years and beyond. If anybody should rise up against you, may they suffer the worst possible torment and their cries of anguish be heard down the centuries as a warning against future uprisings. If anybody should rule instead of or in place of your descendants, may they suffer the worst possible torments in this life and in hell, forevermore. May their bones ache to their core. May the fleas of 10,000 camels infest their armpits. May the...." "Enough!", Zaxxon shouted. "If someone sent me this diplomatic message, I would be offended." Dip-low-Mac-Sea responded with "Yes sir, I agree. It would be offensive to us. But the God-Emperor's reign seems to be...well, somewhat excessive. We don't want to offend such a powerful personage by being diplomatically polite and say nothing. We need to take a positive stance with him in the manner which he understands." "You really think so?" "Yes sir, I do. It is imperative we do it this way if we want his support." Against his better judgement, Zaxxon said, "Then send it as soon as we make contact." |
Re: Newbie Galactic Combat II - Story Thread
I do belive that Eston is living dangerously right now....
(some new law I recall) |
Re: Newbie Galactic Combat II - Story Thread
Quote:
EDIT: But not just him as you will soon see. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon7.gif http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon12.gif http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon10.gif [ February 03, 2003, 18:45: Message edited by: tbontob ] |
Re: Newbie Galactic Combat II - Story Thread
Quote:
EDIT: But not just him as you will soon see. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon7.gif http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon12.gif http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon10.gif </font><hr /></blockquote><font size="2" face="Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif">RE-EDIT Is anybody enjoying this or is Ruatha and I engaging in an intellectual form of onanism? http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon10.gif |
Re: Newbie Galactic Combat II - Story Thread
I know that there is another story in NGC2 being written, altough it can't be published yet due to in-game situations.
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Re: Newbie Galactic Combat II - Story Thread
Quote:
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Re: Newbie Galactic Combat II - Story Thread
Somebody elses.... nuff said....
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Re: Newbie Galactic Combat II - Story Thread
I'm enjoying reading the story and have even suggested some story lines to Ruatha. I'm not much of a fiction writer, although I am enjoying the diplomacy part of the game.
Keep up the great work...Greybeard |
Re: Newbie Galactic Combat II - Story Thread
Here is my feeble attampt to add to the story line. Be warned, I'm not a very good writer, or a very good speller, so as long as you don't go in expecting much, you won't be disappointed. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon7.gif
The silence. In the years and decades to come that is what he would remember most. It had started out as any other day, the normal routine of life in the great floating city. Over half a million souls called the huge structure home, and twice that number visited it every cycle. But as Prince Dravel watched it crumble through the clouds into the deep oblivion below, all he could remember as he watched from high above was the silence, and in the silence he knew that everything had changed. Chapter 1 Galactic Standard Year 2404.9 "You have done a most excellent job, Josha" President Dravel the VII of the Draven Republic said as his skimmer drifted high above Landing City, "A most excellent job indeed, this years founders celebration will be the grandest ever." The slightly overweight man next to him smiled slightly and allowed himself to take in the view. It was remarkable indeed. Landing City, was not so much a city on the ground as it was a huge immobile star base. On its base where huge anti-grav generators that actually held the city in the upper atmosphere of Kornephoros X, one of the Galaxy's largest Gas Giants. The city measured nearly 35 kilometers in Diameter, with over 40 main levels, and that wasn't including the 15 or so 70+ story buildings that littered the cities landscape. Below on the city "streets" many hundreds of people labored to erect stages, and other decorative structures over the usually featureless buildings. "You give me more credit than I deserve Mr. President." Dravel snorted, then gave his companion a stern look, "Didn't you learn not to argue with your president, Mr. Chairman." Chairman of Defense Relations Josha, leaned back in his seat, "I am a low dweller Mr. President, you know how we are with matters of Etiquette, we just don't have a highlanders sense to shut up and agree." Dravel laughed, nodded his head and then turned his attention back to the scene below. Him and the Defense Relations Chairman had nibbled at each other's upbringing since they were children, and despite that upbringing they had both become good friends. "At least you have more sense that a Terran, the damn fools, rejected our Last territorial concession." Jasha whipped his head around at that Last statement. "How bad?" "Bad. They are now claiming the entire Lasat system, and they have been hinting at Acamar too." "Acamar?" Josha was astonished by that. "I can understand Lasat, its only two jumps from their home worlds, but Acamar too? We have deep roots in that system, surely they know we'll never give it up without anything short of a full blown war.." There was a silence, then the President spoke, "Politics my friend, have never been your strong suite. They know we'll never give up Acamar, but they figure they can use it as leverage against us. Force us to give them some territorial concessions in exchange to keep them completely out of Acamar." Josha rubbed his hand against his temple, he hated politics, he could balance fleet figures all day, and deal with any Admiral, but he knew he was completely out of his league when dealing with politicians. If ever there was a bunch that deserved to be lined up and executed it was politicians, present company excluded of course. Dravels words brought him back to the present, "To make matters worse our scout ships have detected a huge fleet movement in the Ansuroer system." Josha let out a sigh, "Yes Mr. President the report came across my desk this morning, I haven't been able to draw too many conclusions over the obvious of course, it seems like a stupid thing to do." The Ansuroer system was just one jump into Agamar, part of the Republics' settled territory. What didn't make sense was that Agamar was an almost totally worthless system. It's five planets were far from hospitable, and only a modest number of citizens had settled there, making most of their income from trade tariffs between the Jophur Republic and the Terrans. In any war plan that Josha had overseen he had almost always given up Agamar, it just wasn't worth defending, it had no modern shipyards, and worse little natural resources. "Our scouts estimated the number at 35 Destroyers, most of them are of that new Strike Carrier class, naval intelligence guesses that they are some kind of mini fighter carriers, no info on payload though." "The Wyrlings disagree with your intelligence operatives", Said President Dravel, "They think they are a type of missile ships." "Mr. President, as far as I can see it doesn't really matter, our response is still the same, we need to increase our expenditures for the fleet defender project. Besides, I have a hard time trusting the Weyrlings Intelligence operatives, ever since that maniac Rutha was killed they haven't quite been the same. They are still some of the best worriers I have ever seen, but before when Rutha was alive they seemed tempered, only wanting to go to war as a Last resort, despite what their leader said. Now, though, they seem to crave the fight, even hinting at a war with the Terrens as a means of reducing the Alliance's trade defecate." The President turned back to his friend, and rubbed his chin like so often did in situations like this. "I don't know, I've met their new Matriarch, even if it was just over a com link, she seems as reasonable as any Weyrling I have ever met. Certainly not as crazy as that madman Rutha." There was a few seconds silence, "None the less, it doesn't really matter, I don't think the new Matriarch will try to do anything in contrary to what the Central Powers HQ says. So far as I have seen she seems content to follow their advise." That brought another subject to the surface, "Do you think we will hold majority in the Central Powers Alliance Representatives next year?" The President looked worried, "I don't know Josha, before Rutha kept his empire in such chaos that he never had a chance to mobilize any support in representative elections, now though, this new Matriarch seems to be contacting the Thermolian's and even a few worlds in our own republic to vote for Weyrling representatives. I fear we may lose our single seat majority, and with that our ability to control the Alliance. There was several more seconds of silence, then the President smiled, "Why are we talking of such gloom subjects on this day? The Founder celebration is tomorrow, we should be raising a drink to our ancestors." Josh sighed, "I'm afraid I can't join you Mr. President, I have to head to Central Powers Headquarters tonight and update them on our treaty talks with the Terrens." Dravel frowned, "That's a shame Josha, we could have painted the city, like the old days." Josha almost laughed at that memory from his childhood. "Oh well," said the President his mood now starting to lighten back up, "I trust you are not going to make my son's ship escort you there?" "No sir, him and the King Dravel the first will be doing an atmospheric pass over Landing City as part of the Celebration. He's been looking forward to this for a while, I'm afraid he would retire if I tried to pull him away." The president smiled at the thought of his son. Despite being the prince, and next in line in the Presidency, his son had insisted on joining the Peoples Navy, and with no help from his father, not from the lack of offers mind you, he had moved up the Ranks, and distinguished himself as one of the Republics best officers. Prince Dravel had made his father very proud the day he had taken command of the 'King Dravel the first', it was at that moment, the President had known his son would make a fine successor when the time came, even if the kid was still a little too headstrong for his own good sometimes. "You know despite you not being here to witness the celebration that you helped set up, I think this will be one of the best Founders Celebrations ever, and certainly the most memorable." The Presidents skimmer continued to drift high above Landing city, but down below a group of people labored to move huge unmarked box through the city streets. Normally a box of this size would have been stopped and examined by the local Police, but in all the commotion of the city this day, the box was moved undetected. Chapter 2 "... and that about sums it up Prime Minister." Prime Minister Yalare was jogged out of his internal thoughts, he cursed himself, he had let his mind drift again, sign of the times, trying to solve the trade defecate that the President had dropped in his lap had been taking more and more of his time, and sleep was becoming more of a luxury with the increased time constraints. The Prime Minister cleared his throat, "I'm sorry Golman, I was distracted what was that you were saying about the time table." Goleman inhaled and began again, he was obviously annoyed that he had to repeat himself, "As I was saying Sir, if current military buildup continues as the Defense committee recommends then the trade defecate will reach critical in about 10 years. That is of course assuming that domestic stays at its current rate of growth." Yalare tilted his chair back, purposely he looked away from his young aid, he didn't want the young chap to see his anger, anger at Dravel and his crazy military build up against a threat that didn't exist. The treasury was running bare trying to support the maintenance costs of all those ships, and that wasn't even including the current ones under production. If something wasn't done in the next 15 years those ships would have to be abandoned, the Republic wouldn't be able to keep them manned, and that most certainly would bring them to the notice of their neighbors. Seeing a financially strapped Republic is all but an invitation to invade. No, Yalare would not allow it, he had been elected to make sure that didn't happen. But what to do? The President controlled the Defense Committee, Yalare had been fooled into giving it to him for control of the Budget committee. At first it had seemed like a great idea, he could simply control the military by controlling their budget. The plan had failed though, Dravel had gotten public support behind an unprecedented military buildup, a "Build-up For Peace" he called it. With the public behind him, Yalare had no choice but to approve the military's budget. That left him with a major problem, to get elected he had premised to increase social spending, if he failed to deliver he certainly would no longer be Prime Minister come next election cycle. So Yalare had done the only thing he could, went into deficit spending, using the trade income to supplement it. The public loved it, more gravy programs flowed, and they also had a first class military, the envy of the Galaxy, but Yalare knew the truth. They could not keep going like this forever. Something had to be done, and quick. "Sir." It was Goleman, Yalare had almost forgotten about him. "Yes, Goleman, upload the report to my terminal before you leave, I'll look some more into it tonight." Goleman nodded and after a courtesy bow left the room, shutting the old fashioned door behind him. Once again Yalare was alone with his thoughts. The President had too much power, that was the problem. The prime minister could seize power, for a short time, but he needed 75% of both the Upper and Lower People's Committees to vote no confidence in the President. With 35% of the Representatives being in favor of the Presidents initiatives, getting the votes he needed was going to be impossible. Yalare hated the way he had too play along with the President. Yalare was the rightfully elected representative of the Republic, not some idiot born with a silver spoon in mouth, that had simply inherited the job! Hate burned inside of him. Hate for the founders, who had stuck him with this idiotic Government. Hate for the military that was shooting black holes into his budget. But, most of all he Hated President Dravel. Yalare took deep breaths; he had let his anger get the best of him for a moment there. He rubbed his hands over his yellow rough temples. Like all Draven's, he had much in common with Humans, but long ago the Founders had genetically modified themselves to live in the harsh Gas worlds. The result had been thicker skin, and the ability to breath a much thicker atmosphere. Still though Dravens had to live in the floating cities that had been built inside of the gas giants, like Delta Citythat he was in now. Dravens still respected their human heritage, and even celebrated many of the known human holidays. "You worry too much," Yalare froze. As usual the words seemed to come out of thin air. Yalare took a few moments to regain his composure before he responded. "I have done as you ask," he said, paying no particular heed to any of his surroundings, "why do you continue to visit me." The voice didn't even take a heartbeat to respond. "I am part of you." Yalare snorted, "Don't give me that, I know exactly what you are." That was only partially true, he knew that he had been infected by one of the same organisms that had caused so much trouble in the Weyrling Empire, but this one was different from the one's that had infiltrated them. When his doctor had discovered it, he had noted that it seemed to be of Draven origin. Sure it shared the same qualities, especially in the brain interface, but this one had no physic transmitting abilities, at the time the Doctor wrote it off as an attempt to infect the Dravens like the Weyrlings had been infected, but it had to be modified sense Draven's were immune to what was being called in intelegence circles as the Weyrling brain drain. The doctor took note but assure Yalare that the device was inert. Years past, and Yalare never paid much attention to the device in his head. That had changed one day though after he had taken his seat as Prime Minister. He began to hear voices when no one was there. At first it was a word here, or a sentence there, nothing that Yalare couldn't write off as hearing things. Then one day, he had been sitting in his office, and he heard the voice, it sounded dark, mysterious. What made it worse was that he was able to talk to the voice and the voice answered back. The voice never gave much detail as to what it was, or what its ultimate objective, but it had promised certain benefits to its host, for just a favor every now and then. If he agreed he would gain untold mental abilities, if he did not accept he would die of a heart attack in moments. The "voice" could not control him per say, but it could effect certain involuntary functions. Yalare agreed reluctantly, and the voice had been merciful in its requests, it had just insisted on giving low interest loans to a small corporation in Landing City that dealt with the Disposal of Radioactive material from inert missiles. In return Yalare had gained the ability to recall information, any information he had ever seen at will. He could read, at unheard of rates, all in all it wasn't a bad deal. He still didn't like the idea of a parasite crawling around inside his brain though. "Part of me huh? Why did you want those loans?" The voice said nothing, as usual whenever he asked a question the voice was unable to answer, or as Yalare thought, unwilling, it simply didn't say anything, he guessed it was limited programming, but he couldn't be sure. He took a breath, and began going over the reports for the day, he knew he wouldn't get any information out of the voice, he never did. As he read over the reports an blinding speed, he never realized his right hand shaking slowly. Chapter 3 Manning, watched the gauges in front of him, and frowned. "That's not good, we'll have to take down the center antigravity generator." Deep in Landing city, was the Antigravity control room that controlled the great generators that actually kept the city from falling into the depths of Kornephoros X. Normally 9 generators kept the city aloft, the city could float with as few as 3, as long as they were space around the cities' perimeter, and not in one area. Now though the central generator 1 was acting up, it was located in the center of the city, probably the best place for a generator to go bad, but still manning hated taking any of the generators off line, even for a short time. His assistant was already making the call to shut the Center generator down, at the time manning had no way of knowing he had just doomed 500,000 people do their deaths. Commander Dravel, prince of the Draven republic sat in his command chair, and watch the hallo of the festivities below. He wished he could be there in person, but he was going to be doing a low high altitude pass over Landing city soon, he knew his place was here, on the flag deck of his Ship. Around him was the sound of a ship of war. Its people doing a thousand vital duties in order to keep the great bulk of King Dravel the First operating at peak efficiency. He smiled as he his father took the stage. His father the president was a great speaker, probably the best the Commander had ever seen, and he loved to have a crowd. Certainly there was one there today, more than Dravel had ever seen on Kornephoros X second largest city. His father cleared his throat and began to speak. "My fellow Draven's welcome to the opening day of the Founders Celebration," a burst a cheers flooded out the sound of the Halo's speaker, and distorted it for a moment, but just as quickly as it had started, the cheers subsided, the President continued, "500 years ago the founders began construction on this very city, spawning the creation of the greatest civilization ever seen." More cheers, this time even more intense, Commander Dravel smiled, his father truly was a great speaker. Most of the traffic was still pouring into the docking ports of Landing City, the traffic was more than any of the controllers had ever seen, so much that they discounted the small skimmer that left an unregistered docking port at over 5 times the speed that was allowed by Landing City regulation. The traffic controllers simply moved traffic away from the renegade skimmer, after all they had his transponder code, and could always ticket him later. Besides they had had to clear the traffic lanes so the King Dravel could make its flyover. Chapter 4 Prince Draven and the King Dravel had been descending for over 30 minutes to get into the upper atmosphere of Kornephoros X. If timing was right, he would pass 50 kilometers over Landing city at 10 seconds after 17:00 hours, just after his father finished his speech. The large vessel buffeted slightly as its drive field hit the atmosphere of the planet, Dravel smiled, yes this will be a sight to remember. President Dravel, was loving the attention, this was the largest crowd he had ever spoken too outside the Capital, and he would enjoy every moment of it, "and with that my Fellow Dravens' I want to wish every one of you a very great Founders Day..." He never finished his sentence for at that moment less than 400 yards from where he was speaking a 1 kiloton Nuclear bomb exploded. Landing City was designed to take a nuclear bLast from an orbital bombardment. In such a case it would simply bring up its shield generators, and attempt to ride the bombardment out, but this was different. The bomb was placed on the eastern half of the city, well inside of shield generators, there was nothing to stop the explosion as it ripped into landing city like a shotgun tearing though paper. The bombs bLast wave destroyed everything within 800 feet in an instant. The president, and most of the crowd never knew what happen, they were simply there one second and not there the next. The massive wave of heat that expanded outward from the explosion annihilated the several of the cities tall buildings, another 65,000 died with the collapse of those massive structures. Radiation rippled through the city mortally poisoning those that would survive the initial bLast. Still the worst of the bomb was neither of these. The Electromagnetic Pulse, that proceeded the radiation and the bLast ripped into the cities critical electronic systems, among them were 6 of the Cities antigravity Generators. The pulse left 3 generators on one side intact. Suddenly the entire load of the City shifted to one side. The generators were never meant to hold the load of the entire city on one side. The computer systems that were left tried to compensate for the missing generators, they had the thrust, but it was concentrated in too small of a area. Slowly the city began to tilt. The King Dravel was only 25 seconds from its flyover, when a great light flashed in front. Alarms all over the ship went off. Commander Dravel's response was instant "Break off run," The pilot was already responding, pulling back as far as the computer would allow. "Sir," it was Saha, the communications officer, "we just lost Landing City Control." Dravel was about to question him further, but his wepons officer broke in, "Sir, sensor systems are picking up an Electro Magnetic Pulse. Behind him the navigator, gasped, "Great Creator!" By the time Dravel turned to see what she was looking at. At the front of the command deck on the forward monitor, was displayed Landing City. Black smoked bellowed out of a great hold on its eastern side of the city. But most concerning of all was the 35 degree tilt, the entire city was on, and it was increasing every second. It was also slipping deeper into the planets atmosphere. Small skimmers darted from everywhere on the city, trying to escape the doomed city. And on the bridge of the King Dravel, they could do nothing, but stare in silence.. |
Re: Newbie Galactic Combat II - Story Thread
Great story. It's good to have a third writer now!.
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Re: Newbie Galactic Combat II - Story Thread
Quote:
But it's fun nevertheless so I still recommend it. |
Re: Newbie Galactic Combat II - Story Thread
2405.5 Weyrlings:
================= Good Evening. These are the news from the Last month 2405.5 presented by the Weyrling Imperial Broadcasting Cooperation. Reports from survivors from the disaster that struck Landing City half a year ago are starting to trickle through to our empire. Rumours of sabotage are coming from the Draven Confederation. Hovewer there has been an effective news blockade from the authorities in the region stopping us from bringing you any real facts even after all this time. That has been a source of several rumours aswell, why all this cloak and dagger stuff? Dravens, present us with facts, the population in the universe is shouting. In the same region of the universe the Terran Galactic Imperium are flexing their muscles. They have cancelled all treaties with our empire, the implications of this is not all clear today. Matriarch Elyssandra hovewer, being cautious as always has dispatched the Light Cruiser "Reconsider" to the area to teach the Terrans to show their neighbours respect! Ouch, I can already hear their painful shouts after our glorius military has spanked their behinds! Political commentators speculate that it won't be long before they come crawling back, begging for forgivness! In the south the menacing Ghouls Clan are increasing their provocation against the empire by launcing a massive colonization effort around our borders. They have aswell sent a large warship, the "BCR 3 0011" to threaten our population in the region. Matriarch Elyssandra tells the news that we should keep calm; "There is no signs that they are intending anything agressive at this point, and if they do the people in the south can sleep comfortable with the knowledge that there are enough forces in the region to protect them. This is also to be seen as a warning to the Ghouls clan to avoid an arnament race in the region!", Matriarch Elyssandra stated yesterday from the Destroyer "Responder". In the Northwest the state of emergency has been lifted and the forces are standing down from their hightened alertness. The new leader of the Earth Alliance has stated that he wants to normalize relations with us. So far the Earth Alliance has proven these words by withdrawing their warships from the Irith system. Our great scientists has been able to create a planet! Yes, you heard right, not a molecule or a pineapple, an entire planet! The colonization agency states that this is the beginning of a new era, now we can continue our expansion without military means. No need to upset our neighbours, we can colonize new planets at home. They urge those who has been reluctant to leave their relatives for the colonization program to rethink; Now you can colonize a frontier world at home, with only a short voyage back to your folks! The military are also trying to recruit more personal, the Ship yards has produce lots of new ships, hovewer, alot of them has been forced to be decomissioned as there aren't any crews to man them. So sign up today and do your duty for the empire. Remember, Matriarch Elyssandra started as a junior officer and today she rules the Weyrling Empire, can you repeat that?? The grumpy Sons of Thunder has been given a outstanding trade deal by the Matriarch. The entire Ahab system with nine inhabited planets, two of wich are oxygenated. In exchange for the disputed planets the Sons of Thunder are currently occupying inside Weyrling territory. Albeit most of the population in the Ahab system are deported criminals, but nevertheless, what a deal! Rumours has it that a similar deal is being drawn up for the Earth Alliance. Wether the Sons of Thunder will agree to this trade or not is not clear at this time. The Sons of Thunder embassy refuses to answer any questions, as if that should be any news! Scientists are also stating that there are no real need to be concerned about the "mind-control devices". Currently it is belived that the devices can't really control their victims. So if you belive you have an alien artifact implanted in your central nervous system you can now relax, it isn't that bad afterall! The Ymer Scout ship in the south has reported large Romulan force movements. These ships are hovewer not heading towards Weyrling space and as the Foreign affairs minister so wisely put it when he heard the news; "Good, any figh in wich we aren't involved is a good fight!" In the east the Argon Confederacy has sent yet another frigate into territory populated by the Weyrling Empire. But as we haven't claimed the system as ours and the Argons seems to be a really nice people no official protest has been made, that we know of. From the Delari system reports has it that the Dravens are strip-mining the asteroid fields. Without concern for the future generations thay are wasting all resources today. This the Resource ministerium says with a strong voice, is not something we as Weyrlings would ever do, we do belive that the universe should be protected, and it's up to us Weyrlings to protect it. This is all from the News this month. Good evening. |
Re: Newbie Galactic Combat II - Story Thread
Rutha sort of painted me into a corner with his news broadcast, so now I have to attempt to roll with it http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon7.gif . Anyways heres chapters 5 & 6, alot shorter this time though.
Chapter 5 Commander Dravel stared at the purple orb of Kornephoros X. From 700 kilometers up it looked so calm, so peaceful, a kind of subdued beauty that only ones home world can have. Its endless clouds did not show any of the chaos that had happened nearly 15 hours ago. Dravel trembled at the thought of those endless hours, he was sure they were the longest of his life. Such horror such pain, so much loss. Among the dead was his Father, the President of the Republic. Several senators had died as well, but those losses paled in comparison to the death totals that had come across his desk not 15 minutes ago. There were so many names on that list. More names than he had ever seen, names that burned in his mind, not hundreds, not thousands, but hundreds of thousands. The image of the city disappearing into the vastness of Kornephoros X replayed itself in his mind again. He had felt so helpless at that moment, unable to do anything as the very people he had sworn to protect were lost. The hours that followed he had tried. Oh creator how he had tried. Dravel had used all of home fleet's resources, every shuttle that was capable of atmospheric flight had been sent to search for survivors, but except for the few that had made it out on skimmers, they found nothing. Nothing but light wreckage of Landing City that had some how gotten caught in the endless wind currents of Kornephoros X. Still while he had been searching for survivors others had been searching for answers, but there were precious few to be found. Most of the evidence had been lost with Landing City. It was known that a nuclear detonation had erupted on the eastern side of the city, but beyond that no one knew how it had gotten there, or who had placed it. The republics nuclear specialists had flocked to the location where the doomed city had once been, looking for answers in the clouds around it, but after 15 hours they had, had little to report. Not long after the disaster he did his duty and contacted the Prime Minister, to tell him that the President of the Draven Republic was dead. Yalare had of course given his condolences , and promised that he would use all the governments resources to find those responsible. Dravel had stared at the screen for long seconds after the Prime Minister had cut the circuit. His father had never liked the Prime Minister, the two had battled for control of the government ever since Yalare had been elected prime minister. His father had outmaneuvered Yalare when he took control of the Defense Committee, and Dravel suspected that Yalare had never forgotten that. Now, the game had changed. The Presidency was an inherited position, technically Dravel was now the President, but the Republics constitution mandated that a new President could not take office until the next general election. Until Dravel took office the Presidents duty's entire fell upon the Prime Minister, who by law was the only one who could call a general election. Dravel got a sick feeling in the pit of his stomach, Yalare could postpone calling an election for at the most 4 years, but until that time the Republic was being controlled by one of his father's worst enemies. Chapter 6 Yalre stood in the center of the Great Hall of the People's Committee. Both the upper and lower committee's were here today for this emergency session. There was no doubt as to the reason, word of the disaster at Landing city had spread across the whole of Kornephoros X, and would soon spread across much of the Republic. Yalare knew that the response to the news would be panic, especially for the residents of the floating cities, something had to be done, and quickly. Yalare cleared his throat. "Senators of the People's Committee I am here today under the Gravest circumstances. We have been attacked, our people have been murdered, our President is dead." He paused for a moment letting his words sink in. "The cowards who did this did not attack from a starship, they did not make any demands, they simply slaughtered innocent Dravens without mercy, without thought. These monsters planted a nuclear device within Landing City, their goal simply to kill as many men, women and children as possible." "However, my fellow Dravens, their effects will be much worse. Already people are trying to abandon the great floating cities of Kornephoros X, for fear that they may be next. Soon this scene will be repeated all throughout the Republic." He paused, and watched the terror seep into the eyes of the senators, and they imagined the floating cities, the lifeblood of the Republic, abandoned in an endless sea of clouds. "We cannot allow this to happen, we cannot allow the Republic to slip into the ashes of history, we cannot allow it, I will not allow it!" His Last words came out with such force that few in the room could doubt his resolve. "That is why I am here before you today, to ask that you help me save the Republic from its own fears. Later today I will propose a resolution to enforce martial law across all worlds of the Republic." Muted conversation suddenly lit up around the room, no one could believe what they were hearing, martial law had never been declared in the republic. Yalre held his hand out for silence, "I wish there were a better way, but unless we stop people from leaving the floating cities we will see an end to all that we hold dear. We must gain control of the transportation, and communication systems if we are going to be able to stop this madness from spreading everywhere. We must act now!" He banged his hand on the podeum, as the room burst in exploded with applause, and in his mind a lone voice, encourage him, always convincing Yalare that what he was doing was for the good of the republic. At the end of the day over half the Senators voted in favor of martial law, none of them knew that they had signed their own death warrant. |
Re: Newbie Galactic Combat II - Story Thread
Quote:
Anyways, that is what makes this thread so interesting. We think we are going in one direction and then someone does something that forces us to change direction. Ruatha shocked me when he killed off his alter-ego the God-emperor Ruatha. It forced me to re-evaluate and re-assess my long term plans on the unfolding relationship between the Wreylings and the Zax. I wrote about it (among other matters) in the "Ingame Stories" of the Newbie Galactic Conflict site. All I can say is "roll with the punches." http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon10.gif |
Re: Newbie Galactic Combat II - Story Thread
Re: Zax Society
posted by: tbontob Posted Less than 1 min ago Thu, Feb 6 at 05:01:25 EST ---------------------------------------------- THE LOCATION: THE SEMI-OVAL OFFICE OF ZAX CENTRE THE TIME: STARDATE: 2405.5 THE PEOPLE: ZAXXON, R2D3, Dip-low-Mac-Sea, Spiii, Strong-of-the-Arm Custer and Cord-Ill-Era Stong-of-the-Arm Custer was morose. He was getting a new fleet with all the new up-to-date technology and with it he should be able to "whup some ***". But there was a problem. Custer was saying, "The hulls of the new battle cruisers have been built and the engines installed. However, the installation of the other components is being held up because of the electronics shortage. If the shortages continue much longer, the ships will be outdated before they leave the yards." "Dip-low-Mac-Sea, what news of the contact with the Wreylings?" "I have some unsettling news." Dip-low-Mac-Sea said. "Yes, what is it." "Well, it would seem we do not have not made contact with the Wreylings." "What happened?" "Well, it seemed like one of the inventors picked up a strange signal which he thought was in the Wreyling language." "And?" "Well, it wasn't" "What was it?" Dip-low-Mac-Sea turned a beet red and then answered, "It seems he was able to pick up certain sounds in a building close to him and er...ah...ahem...." "Yes, yes, get on with it!" "Well it from a couple who were doing their duty to increase the Zax population, sir. The female in particular was loud and vociferous in her shouts of...ahem...passion." "How in the world could he mistake that for the Wreylings?" "Well, with all the grunts, groans and squealing, he thought it must be the Wreylings talking among themselves." "Hmmm. Well, keep the diplomatic message ready. If and when we are able to make contact with the God-emperor Ruatha, I want you to send it immediately." After a pause, Zaxxon continued, "With all the dislocations caused by the reward, I am inclined to withdraw the reward and..." "I wouldn't do that!" Cord Ill Era interjected. "Who are you?" "Cord Ill Era of the Department of Motherland Safety, sir." "And why shouldn't we withdraw the reward?" "In simple terms, the people would riot. If you think things are bad now, they will be impossible if you withdraw the reward." "R2D2, how is the research in communications progressing?" "Very well, sir. We now have instant communications between adjacent solar systems." "And how much is the communications budget?" "Five percent, sir." R2D2 carefully watched Zaxxon carefully as Zaxxon performed some mental calculations. When he noticed the Zaxxon's color suddenly turning beet red, he quickly said, "But with the emergency, I intend to increase the communications budget." "Do it, we need a solution to this crises." =========================================== THE LOCATION: Sod Dum, a provincial capital. Eston had almost finished packing when Loy Al tew deBone walked in. "I'll be glad to get to Elstonile Castle and get this over with!" Eston said in an irritable voice. "Ahem. Ah, well, ah, we are not finished." "Not finished?" "We do not have the seal of Zaxxon." "The seal of Zaxxon? Why do we need it?" "Whenever the Zaxxon takes a trip the seal is always openly displayed on the vehicle he travels in. If you do not have the seal, the Zaxxonness will know you are not Zaxxon." Eston groaned! It seemed nothing was going right. "All the seals are kept in Zax city. How can we get one here?" Loy Al tew deBone responded with, "Well I know this forger. It will be expensive..." "Impossible! No-one can duplicate the seal." "Yes, I agree. Except this forger is exceptional which is why it will be expensive." "More money! Where is this...ah...acquaintance of yours?" "In Go More Ah. It's the capital of the state adjoining this one." "When can we get it?" "We will have to see him first. I have already arranged the meeting. We should leave now to see him." |
Re: Newbie Galactic Combat II - Story Thread
More of the story, this should give Rutha some room to manuever.
___________________________________________ Chapter 7 Jasha sat in his office and thumbed the data card his hand, so much had happen in the Last 2 months since the Landing City Tragedy. He had expected to be relieved of his Committee chairmanship when Yalare took over, but the exact opposite had happen. Instead he had been ordered to proceed to the Central Powers Headquarters, there he hadn't had a lot to say. The original reason for his trip was to update fleet status, but once he had gotten to HQ he had been bombarded with questions, all having to do with Landing City. Unfortunately he had no answers to give, so he had stayed at Headquarters for the Last 2 months, listening to the trickle of news that was coming out of the Capital nowadays. Josha tried to get updates on what was happening at home, but he had found that his own department was reluctant to give him information, citing security. When the Landing City tragedy happen it was all over the news, now suddenly it was gone, as if someone was trying to hide it. Josha knew that Yalare must have taken control of the communication channels, but the Peoples Committee would have blocked any such move. He had heard a few leaks, rumors mainly, about how the Prime Minister had declared marshal law, but every time he tried to follow up on it, he had been stopped cold. The Prime Minister's Last com, had made it clear that he wanted Josha to stay at Central Powers HQ, as far away from the Republic as he could be sent. He was interrupted from his thoughts, but a movement at his door, for a second he was startled, but that soon faded as he recognized the figure entering the small office. "Jobe, how are you doing?" He stood and walked around the table to greet his friend. Jobe, was a tall man, taller than most Dravens even, and he carried an air of confidence that was seldom for a man of his stature, that was part of the reason he had been made the chief Representative to the Central Powers Alliance Representatives. It was one of the proudest positions in all known space. Something was wrong though, his friends normal confidence was gone, he looked tired, worn, as though he had gone been in a street fight, and lost. "Jobe, what's wrong?" Jobe took a deep breath, there was no way to make it sound good, "Mr. Chairman, I'm afraid I have some rather unpleasant news." Josha retook his seat behind his desk, Jobe was hardly ever formal with him, only when he had some important, usually bad, news did he drop back into the formal titles he had used during his upbringing. Josha motioned for him to continue. "As you know, we lost 2 Central Powers Representatives in Landing City." The statement was cold fact, already known, but something was different in the way he reported it. "Well normally when a representative dies his replacement is appointed by the President. We thought that the Alliance would allow our Prime Minister to appoint a replacement in the place of our President since he too died at Landing City, and up until today that's what we thought would happen." He stopped as if struggling for the words. "Unfortunately, Mr. Chairman, the rules for our inclusion in the Central Powers Alliance do not give us any leeway, only the President may appoint a representative if one is dies in office, and we will not have a President until the next Election cycle." Josha sat back heavily in his chair, what was happening was now dawning on him, and it scared him even more than when he heard the news of Landing City. "Great creator, it can't be." Jobe looked at the floor, he knew how his friend felt, he felt the same. He had tried to debate it over the Last several hours, but in the end he had no leverage to work with, it was law after all, and it was unchangeable. Over a minute must have passed before either man said a word, finally it was Josha who broke the silence, "Who?" was his only word. "I'm afraid I don't know that yet, Josha, but there's one thing for sure, with the loss of those two votes, the New Governor Of the Central Powers Alliance will be from the Weyrling delegation." Josha couldn't believe it. He never thought he would live to see the day that the Republics future rested on Rutha's Empire. Chapter 8 Yalare worked diligently over the terminal in his office, it was small for the position he now held, but it suited his needs, and most of all it was secure. But it didn't matter right now, he had a major problem, the Republics Budget problems were getting worse, he had thought that with the loss of the President he would be able to scale the Military back, but that had not happen, the Terren Galactic Impereum had rebelled against their old leader, no one knew what happen too him, but the important thing was that he no longer in control of the Terrens. A new leader had arisen from the death of the old one, Mao Dzendun. Yalre would have welcomed the new leader, and used the opportunity to negotiate the border, so that he could stop this insane military spending. Mao Dzendun had other ideas though, he had begun by blaming the Republic for the the problems that the Terrens were now having, and even go as far as to cut trade relations. Mao Dzendun had also accelerated his own military buildup, claiming it was to protect against the imperialist Draven's. Yalare was no military genius but he knew that scaling down the military now would mean the end to the repblic, but with the spending staying the same, and no increase in income he saw no way out of this problem. "You know what you have to do." Yalare froze it was the voice again. "Wha-what are you talking about." Yalare stumbled for the words, he was beginning to hear more and more from the voice, what scared him most was that he was beginning to agree with it on many things, it was as if Yalare was losing himself. "You can't fool me remember, you know what you have to do, for the good of the Republic." Yalare's heart was racing, what the voice was suggesting was impossible, 'I-I can't, it would kill millions." The voice was as calm as ever, calculating in many ways, "Millions now or billions later, you choose." Yalare, wanted to say it was wrong, to show where the voice had been mistaken in some way, but he couldn't it was cold, hard logic. Yalre picked up a small datacard and inserted it into his terminal. He looked through the report until he found the line he wanted, his hand flowed gracefully yet slowly over the keyboard. He didn't change much on the short report, just one word, but it was enough to change report entirely. He finished, saved the document and reached for the send switch, his finger stopped just short of it. "I can't do it" he said, his voice crackling slightly, he couldn't believe what he was doing. The voice was there again, always there, "Millions now or billions later, you choose." Yalre's finger pushed the send button. He froze there for several minutes, it was done, he had just paved the Republics Future, unfortunately it would be paved with blood. |
Re: Newbie Galactic Combat II - Story Thread
Weyrling Empire 2405.8
The Weyrling Destroyer "Responder" ------------------------- Captain Areia was sitting at the helm discussing with her second in command Anselm Thurya. "-Thurya, you seem to always know what's going on. Have you heard anything about the Light Cruiser Reconsider that was sent out towards the Terrans? I mean the official Version of them hitting an asteroid field at full speed is pure bull****. No Weyrling ship would be able to such a mistake!" "-Well Areia, When we resupplied at that Draven planet Troiken IV I happened to get some time over to visit a local pub. And the Dravens have an altogether different Version of what happened the Reconsider going around. They said it was destroyed in a battle with a Terran Destroyer, and that we Weyrlings are so embarrased about loosing our first ever ship to ship combat that we are covering it up. But hey, I'm not saying that our headquarter are lying, but that's what I heard anyway." "-I wouldn't put that beyond them. Our fleet hasn't got such a glorius reputation before, and if we lost a LC to a destroyer that would upset some people at home! Remember all that fuss that was stirred up Last time we were at war, the four destroyers, glory of our fleet. Killing an unarmed colony ship and then being wiped out by mines! What a success!" "-As Captain, do you know when the Matriarch will leave our ship. It's quite nervous having her around. I mean, she's nice and all that but I don't know how to treat her. I mean she's a war hero, our military leader and civilian leader. And Last week she was trying to chat with me! I didn't know what to say; Beutiful weather, eh? Was all I could blurt out, 2 standards away from the nearest planet!! She must have thought I'm daft." "-I think she's a down to earth type. We've had some good talks during the trip. She's been teaching me some strategy and tactics. Trying to get me to apply for the Fleet Grand Officer school! Yesterday she said we'd meet up with the Indestructible next month, and then shell transfer flag to that ship. Not to be disrespectful but I too feel it's cumbersome. Here I am, fresh on my first command and I'm piloting the Flag ship of our fleet! When you were at that Draven bar, did you find out what this buildup is all about? I've never seen so many ships at the same location before!" "-Well, this is as I said before pure speculation. It was said that their Chairman of Defense Relations, someone called Josha was trying to get the Central Power alliance to go in and end the Infernal realms war. It seems he doesn't think the Thermoilans can handle it. I don't blame him, have you ever seen a Thermoilan? Scary people!! On the other hand someone said that the Thermoilans had demanded that the entire CP fleet be used in a attack against the Sarnak. It seems the Sarnaks, never heard of them before mind you, has declared war on the Thermolians several times. One guy said we were going to spank the Terrans butts for destroying Landing City and implanting the Devices into us Weyrlings. I can tell you that there is still a lot of upset feelings about Landing City, never mind what we don't hear in the news. There were even some there who insisted it was us Weyrlings who had destroyed the city. Another rumour was that the Argon confederacy was planning a surprise attack on us and that we were planning a counter attack, the one telling this story insisted that the Argons already had attacked us, and conquered half the CP territory. And that it was just a gigantic coverup that was keeping us all from knowing. I guess if that was true though, we wouldn't see so many ships outside the hatches as we do today! But there might be some merit to this story. I heard from reliable sources, the Matriarchs secretary, a real nice guy if you catch my drift...I'm going to get alot of more sleep when he leaves with the Matriarch!", Thurya started laughing. "-If you can focus your thoughts for a second Thurya, please! What did this hunk tell you?" "-He said that there had been alot of communications with the Argons recently, and that the Matriarch, altough not revealing what it was about, seemed very disappointed after the Last communication with them!" "-That's not much evidence of an Argon attack if you ask me, maybe you should go and pump him for some more! Information I mean", now both officers laughed. "-If that's an order my Captain, I'll do my best to comply, for the Empire!", Thurya raised up and left. |
Re: Newbie Galactic Combat II - Story Thread
Will post next tomorrow (* this is a shameless bump*)
Ahh, Tbontob where are you?? I'm waiting for the next episode (No pressure here...) [ February 15, 2003, 17:36: Message edited by: Ruatha ] |
Re: Newbie Galactic Combat II - Story Thread
ARRGHHHH.
I had written three pages and then I deleted it. I'm going nuts!!! It took me three hours of writing! And it was on a work NT machine during the slow hours of the night. So I don't have admin rights and can't install any undelete program!!! [ February 16, 2003, 08:05: Message edited by: Ruatha ] |
Re: Newbie Galactic Combat II - Story Thread
(I thought I'd write a long one this time so that my enemies won't have the strenght to read all of it!! http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon7.gif )
I hope I've given Tbontob and CaptRR something to work with here. As people in other threads have written before. Any feedback is wanted, if anyone actually manages to read all of it. This is the first time I've written any stories since grammar school! I've had a tough time finding the right way for the story but now I think I've narrowed it down to the characters I will follow in the future. I've put in an explanation to "The One", even if I already explained it before the previous explanation hsa sedimented down to the beginning of this thread. If anyone of my allies think I tell too much of the in-game secrets please let me know! Nuff said, here it is (Rewritten after being deleted, ouch) -------------------------------------------- Weyrling Empire 2405.9 ----------------------- On the Destroyer "Responder"; "-All hands prepare for docking in 10 minutes. Open shuttle bay doors and seal all internal air locks", Ariea's voice sounded over the ship. Turning towards Elyssandra she turned off the intercom and continued. "Matriarch. Admiral Gryt from the "Indestructible" contacted me five minutes ago. He said he had vital information for you and requests that you transfer flag to the Indestructible as soon as possible." "-Good." Elyssandra started to say. "My secretary is heading to the shuttle bay with my stuff. I'll be ready when the shuttle arrives. It's been a pleasure travelling with you Areia. You run a good ship. Official orders as to the task of this fleet will arrive tomorrow. We have some difficult times ahead but I'm quite convinced you will pass the coming battles with flying colours. Don't forget what I've said about continued military school after this operation is finished. I think you have a concise strategic mind and that you will benefit from higher education, and that the fleet will benefit from that aswell. Goodbye Captain, give my thanks to the rest of the crew. " Elyssandra turned and started walking towards the shuttle bay. "-Goodbye, admiral", Areia spoke silently. Thurya came up beside Areia. "-I was glad she joined us but I'm even happier that she's leaving. She unsettles me, I don't know why but she makes me nervous. I guess it's all that power she represents." "-I've spoken alot with her during this voyage. She's really nice when you disregard all that surrounds her. All that power means alot of responsibility aswell you know!" "-Ofcourse I can see that Ari. But still. I'm glad we're rid of her." Later onboard the Battlecruiser "Indestructible"; Elyssandra strode quickly into the strategy room and seated herself at the head of the strategy table. "-Admiral Gryt. You wished to see me?" A large broad shouldered man with a long tail stood up. "-Matriarch. Yes, we have analyzed the battle in the Lasat system. We were quite surprised by the events there. It was supposed to be an easy victory for the 'Reconsider'. Initially we couldn't understand what went wrong. We analyzed all telemetrical data looking for weapon malfunctions or errors in the handling of the ECM or sensors. But we found nothing! Then we started looking at the ships manouvers. We were amazed. The Terrans has no respect for their technological disadvantages. They press their ships and weapons far beyond all safety limits, it shouldn't be able to do what they did. Their agressivness is unpreceded. Our ship was following our standard tactic. Staying as far away from the enemy as possible to avoid harm and still within optimal range for our own weapons. That tactic can't be used against the Terrans it seems. Therefore I have developed a new tactic. It means that we are to close with the enemy until the hulls nearly touch and then open fire! It should win the day.", He turned proudly towards the Matriach and awaited her response. "-I don't like it." She said and continued, "But I see that it is necessary. Also the fleet tactics needs to be revised. Upon engagement all ships are to break formation and engage the enemy at point blanc range. It will be a bloody carnage! It will also open up our ships to boarding from the enemy. As you know all ship crews has been disarmed and all hand weapons are locked away, requiring two seperate people to open them. This is ofcourse to stop someone afflictad with the madness from killing of an entire crew." Admiral Gryt, somewhat surprised at the negative response when he had awaited praise replied, "- The psi Corps has two ships in the fleet, they can retake any captured ship if the need arises." "-Very well. Issue the order to the fleet and see to it that they start training the new tactics immediately. Also give the order for operation Sledgehammer to start. The morale amongst our crews is at an all time low. We have never won a victory in a ship to ship battle before. Our neighbours are battle hardened but our military have had a peaceful existance so far. We need a quick decisive victory to boost moral. Contact the Draven flag ship and tell them that we will take the lead. If they see any enemies they should avoid engagement and alert us. From what I know of the Dravens that shouldn't be too hard to convince them of." Turning towards the Intelligence officer she continued. "What have the Intelligence service to report? Have you had any success in your covert operations and what resistance are we about to encounter?" The Intel Officer stood up and begun speaking, "Matriarch. We have successfully planted and exploded 14 ship bombs in the Terran fleet. No ships has been completely destroyed but we assume that some has been crippled. They seem to have been completely unaware of the presence of our agents. As to the fleets coming battle; We belive the Terran destroyer 'Defiant I 0001' will depart the Lasat system when our fleet arrives there. It will propably join up with the armada of Heavy Carriers that are waiting inside the Kuat system. The Terran Imperator Star Destroyer Class Fighter Carrier is a behemoth of a ship. It masses at 1000kt. We belive our first battle will be with six of these carriers and five defiant class II destroyers. They will deploy atleast 100 heavy fighters but propably no more than a thousand. We would have thought that we should win that battle with acceptable losses to our side. But due to the recent battle where the 'Reconsider' was lost we recommend utmost caution when engaging the enemy." Elyssandra stood up and raised her voice, "- Have you not been listening to what we've said? We can't use 'utmost caution' when we engage the Terrans! We can't use any caution at all, we must cast our crews at highest speed straight towards the enemy guns or we will be lost." She sat down again. "I need to see the Foreign office attache in my quarter in 15 minutes, and arrange a FL communication with the Chief in command at the Gamma Umi system, then patch it through to my quarter. Was there anything else?" As there were no replies she stood up and left the room. A couple of minutes later it knocks on the door to her quarter. "-Matriarch. Foreign Office Internal Attache Rhyt Reporting." "-Come in attache", Elyssandra said and indicated a seat to her right, "please sit down." After Rhyt was seated she continued. "I'm about to talk to the Commander at Gamma Umi and I don't want to seem uninformed then. Give me a concise update about the dealings in the west." "-Matriarch. The Earth Allaince accepted our trade treaty and it has been carried out. We will contact them later to set up a population transfer to send the populations of the respective planets back to their empires. The Sons of Thunder however declined your offer. They have also made demands that we remove our satellites in the Hermes system. The Ghouls are as usual making threats, we are still not sure what they want. They've made no clear demands or spoken of their intentions." "-Good report, attache. You people usually bores me with lengthy detailed information. This was very concise and to the point. Can you open the com pad?" Attache Rhyt leaned over and switched a knob on the com pad on the wall and pressed the appropriate places on the screen to let the com link through to the cabin. The Screen lit up and showed an old man with white fur and an iceblue steady gaze. "-Matriarch. Admiral Tbon at the Gamma Umi heaquarter reporting." "-Greetings Tbon. What is the current threat situation in the west?" "Matriarch. The Sons of Thunder has a small force in the Gamma Umi system, three destroyers a frigate and a cruiser. No big threat there. In Hermes the situation is different. They have massed six destroyers, five cruisers and ten battle cruisers there. Most of the ships are named to give the impression that they are deploying defensive satellites and mines. This can ofcourse be a rouse. So far we have seen no sign of agression from them but they've stationed most of their ships at the worm hole leading into Gamma Umi. I would prefer it if our fleet aswell was situated at the wormhole but I don't want to provoce them. They are upset enough as it is about our satellite in their system. In the South the Ghouls are coming with threats as usual. Our allies says that they have mostly fighter Groups in the area and not so much offensive capacity at the moment. This might change in the future but we've been assured of updates from our allies who have insight into the Ghouls force concentrations, so we should be forewarned. Personally though I prefer to be forearmed. We have dispatched a third of the Gamma Umi response force to Alpha 2 Lib to stand there as a defensive force. We will continue a slow buildup of the defences in that system. The Sarnaks have massproduced a new type of light cruisers called Novas. We don't know anything of the placement or defence of these ships but they are popping up in increasingly worrying numbers in the south. As to our own forces we belive we have enough forces in the south to counter anything the Sarnaks, Romulans or Ghouls might be plotting against us. The hot spot at the moment is ofcourse the Gamma Umi system. Here we have a strong force that can take out anything the Sons of Thunder might throw at us. I do not think we have enough to be assured of a successful offensive attack though. So I'd recommend against that." "-You seem to have the situation under control Tbon. I want you to continue as you have started. Maybe improve defences towards the Sarnaks, they have declared war against the Thermolians and we don't know how far that might go. When it comes to the Sons of Thunder I must strongly order you not to initiate any aggression. If in doubt, back off. I think we agree on this strategy for now. But I also want you to make a strategy in case the Sons of Thunder attacks. Primarily you shall in that case free the Sons of Thunder occupied planets in the Gamma Umi and Fronabywlax systems. Then the plan shall make room for an expansion into and annihilation of the Sons of Thunder territory. We shall not start a war there but if it comes to us we shall finish it. Any questions Admiral?" "-Matriarch. None." "-Good. Elyssandra out", she reached out and turned off the FL com link. Turning towards attache Rhys she continued. "I want the foreign office to concentrate on the Argon confederacy for awhile. Try to see what you can save from the failed alliance plans. The Argons might be a good ally should we ever come into internal struggles in the Central Powers alliance. And also send a message to the Thermoilans where you express our concern over their expansion into Argon territory. If all is clear you may leave now." Elyssandra stod up and opened the door, Rhys left with bow Later aboard the Weyrling Destroyer "Responder"; The Com pad buzzed to life in Thurya's cabin. "-Thu, Get your *** up here! I need to talk to you and you're supposed to relieve me in five minutes anyway so stop that snoring and get moving!" Before Thurya could respond the com pad shut down. She put on her clothes and quickly brushed her teeths, then started running in the small leeway up to the command bridge. The Responder was a Destroyer and quite a large ship compared to earlier frigates and escorts. Still, most of the bulk of the ship was made up of weapon generators and the auxiliary battle technology. The rest was mostly engines and a small part left for the crew. The ship was quite crowded despite the small crew of 19. Four officers and 15 crewmen. At the aft a small shuttle bay also served as gym when no shuttles were expected. Most of the crew served in two or three positions. One or two routine tasks and one battle position. Thurya was anselm and second in command. The reason she was aboard was that her sister Areia had gotten her first commission and was allowed to choose her own crew. Secretly Thurya thought that if Areia hadn't choosen her she would never have been given a ship position. Most propably she would sit shuffling paper at an office now if it wasn't for her sister. Entering the small bridge with room for four people, currently only occupied by Areia though, Thurya took her seat at the left of the bridge and swiwelled her chair towards Areia. "-What's up Captain?" "-Thurya, We've been given new orders. Some of them were expected but some I can't understand. I want your opinion on them. "-Sure, Captain" "-First and not so unexpected. We are to proceed at full speed, holding our position in the fleet. Destination is a system called Kuat. There we will engage any Terran force we can find. Destroy all planetary defences and open the way for a Draven Army landing force. That's clear to me what it's all about, politics. But here comes the strange part. We are to adopt and train a new tactic. Close to hull contact range and then open fire, no fleet formation, all ships for themself. I mean this goes against everything we've practiced. The only time I used point blanc tactics was when we were b-force during the manouvers, and then we were supposed to loose! And we are to train this new tactics while heading for Kuat. It'll be hard but still alright for us as we have a fast ship, but some of the ships won't have any speed left to train when we're going at S7 towards Kuat. What do you make of this?" "-If you don't get it I'll never will. You are the strategic genius in the family, remember. Still, if the order comes from the Matriarch I'll trust it. She hasn't kicked me out of the fleet yet and for that I'll be forever grateful. I mean with that confused behaviour that she must have observed in me when she was here. I was constantly babbling when she was around, making no sense." "-You got a point there. Hell, I'm surprised they let you into the military to begin with. You've never made any sense", Araia laughed a little and continued. "Still, somehow you do seem to get to the truth of things in the end. Give me your best assesment of this new strategy. Why change strategy just prior to our first real battle?" "-Well. As you know rumours has it that the 'Reconsider' was destroyed in combat. I belive that aswell. They might have learned something from that which forces us to change tactics. Perhaps the Terrans has a really powerful long range weapon that's inefficient at short range?" "-You see. Even you can come up with a good idea from time to time. Now you have the bridge. I'm feeling tired so I'll hit the bunk now. I think I might have catched a cold that doesn't want to break out. I've been tired for over a week now. Have fun here and don't touch anything, Goodnight", Areia stood up and left. Meanwhile at Kalzeroon I the Free council was in session. Marit the Warrior was speaking to the assembled council; "-I've got good news for you. Our scientists belive they are close to awakening The One. I've been promised a demonstration in a couple of months of what they've come up with so far." Local mayor Gris spoke up, "-How do they propose to wake The One?" "-They told me but I don't understand half of it. It seems that they are planning to use the alien Mind Implant devices. They've been experimenting by implanting devices into Womba cats that seems to resemble us in their central nervous systems. The MI devices works by gaining energy from the limbic system when that is energized by emotions. It seems to have a lowest level of energy required to generate a transmission, it's all or nothing. When the device initiates a transmission it gathers all cortical information and transmits it in a short psi burst wave. This is what they belive after experimenting with the devices, they implanted it on womba cats and really teased the cats, then they could use the new psi weapon technology to catch the psi burst waves sent out. What our scientists have tried to do is to make it work the other way. They generate a phased shift psi burst wave wich resonates at the same frequency as the MI device transmitts in. The signal is picked up by the device wich then short-circuits and is destroyed. But before it self destructs it sends a harmonic alpha wave up to the limbic system which then stimulates the amygdala that is located close to the Celia vortex gyri. In the Celia vortex gyri we belive our native psi generator is located. In the Womba cats the Celia psi generator enables them to warn each other of dangers and to coordinate hunts in the pack even if they are out of sight of each other. We Weyrlings have the same structures in our brains but it seems to be dormant in us right now. We belive this is the key to awaken The One. When the Celia vortex is stimulated it starts to transmit a specific continous psi burst that attunes individual brains to each other, creating a network of brains working as one, The One. Another good thing about this is that the transmitter we are building to awaken The One might also shut down the receiver that receives the transmissions from the MI devices. That ought to come as a surprise to whoever it might be that has inplanted the device into our population. The problem is that we are short on devices. We have aquired 27 of them. But each experiment ends with a broken device. We can't use volounteers as we have no way of knowing who has the device and who hasn't. So if anyone of you can get some MI devices let me know. Official numbers says that over 20 000 has been found so we should be able to get some more." After alot of questions and discussions the meeting was ended. As Mayor Gris came home he immediatly called his intelligence service case officer. "-This is Gris. You said I should call if we needed anything. Now we do. We need alot of the alien Mind Implant devices." "-Will a hundred suffice?" "-Yes, good, good. Can you send them over to my house?" "-No. So many devices is a truckload. You must get a truck and then call us again. Then we'll set up a rendesvouz and transfer the devices to your truck, we'll make it an odd number, 107. Do you need an explanation to present to your council or will you make one up yourself?" "-Thanks, but I think I'm quite capable of making up a good excuse myself!" "-Good, call us when you're ready. Bye." --------------------------------------------------- Weyrling Empire 2406.0 ----------------------- On the Destroyer "Responder"; Chaos reigned on the bridge. On the floor Areia and Thurya where rolling around with one hand locked at the other's body. Punches were given away like presents on a birthday. Claws dug deep into the flesh and the floor was getting red from the blood that gushed out of the two combatants. Thurya was clearly getting the worst deal. She could hardly see for all the blood that flowed past her eyes, one ear was hanging on by a thread of skin connecting it to the rest of her. As they were rolling around Thurya felt Areias fangs dig into her neck, ripping apart the fur and flesh while compressing the vital blood supply to the brain. So this is how it ends, Thurya thought before the world blackened out. When Thurya came to again she was lying on one of the tables in the combined mess and infarmary. She knew this as she heard the boiler bubbling away making hot beverages. She could only see some light when she tried to open her eyes. The eyebrows where to swollen to allow her to open the eyes. The siren that had awoken her belched again and Jugg spoke on the com channel. "-All hands prepare for docking in 10 minutes. Open shuttle bay doors and seal all internal air locks." Thurya made an effort, "-Areia?", she managed to press out through her sore throat. She heard fotsteeps approaching and then the voice of Fyor, the ships cook and medic spoke, "- She's strapped down in her bunk. You where lucky that Jugg and Frej decided to go and practice on the bridge when they did. They arrived and saw Areia standing on top of you, blood everywhere. They didn't know what to think but Areia solved it for them by attacking them. Jugg hit her on the head with a spanner and she passed out. A minute more and you'd been dead due to the bloodloss. As it is you'll be up again tomorrow. You have mainly bruises, hematomas and flesh wounds. I've stitched you up proper but you'll have to stay here tonight so that we can monitor the swellings. They should go down before the morning. There's a shuttle coming in to clear up this situation. I'm sorry about Areia, she was a good captain." Thurya turned over and closed the swollen eyes. I should have known, she thought to herself. The tiredness, the irritability and when she wasn't eating properly. I should have known she was getting the madness. It's my fault, I should have known. Now the agression, followed by a couple of days of anorexia and then death from lack of fluid and nourishment. Lying there blaming herself she didn't notice someone coming up beside her. "-Hi Thurya", Matriach Elyssandra spoke softly. "I heard about Areia. I'm sorry. I got to know her quite well during our journey together and it's a great loss for all of us, especially now when we are facing our biggest challenge ever. We have a shortage of officers in the fleet now, the madness is taking people indiscriminately. So you are hereby given the battlefield commission of captain." She raised her voice, "Thurya Kyli, I give you this sword, the destroyer Responder, keep it well and wield it with honour in combat." She lowered her voice again and continued, "Your two junior officers are also raised a rank and you'll have to appoint a new corporal instead of Frej who becomes sergeant. You may chose anyone from the crew that you belive is suitable. I've brought along a crew replacement, he's being assigned a bunk now and will report to you tomorrow. I heard you'll be up again tomorrow. Anselm Jugg will have command until then. Are you listening to me Thurya?" Thurya turned over and pressed the eyelids open somewhat. "-I'm listening, Matriarch" "-Enough of that matriarch stuff. We've travelled together for months, call me Elyssandra. You have an obligation towards your crew now Thurya. You'll get ample of time to mourn your sister when operation sledgehammer is over, and propably other reasons to mourn aswell. It might very well be so that Areia only shortened her lifespan with a couple of weeks, you might go the same way soon, we're heading to war. Consider that. And think about your crew, they rely upon you now. I know you have doubts concerning yourself. It's time to cast those away now. We can take Areia with us on the shuttle if you like. Then we can arrange transportation home for her when it's over." "-No.", Thurya raised her voice. "This is her ship! She'll remain here as long as she lives. Then I'll give her a military funeral and space her remains. Please, go now." "-It's alright. I'll leave now. If there's anything you wish to talk to me about, contact me at the Indestuctible", Elyssandra left for the shuttle. Thurya closed her eyes again and wept slowly. The next day Thurya was able to function again. After having taken official command of the ship she went to see her sister who was still strapped down in her bunk. "-Hi Ari", Thurya didn't get any response except from a wild gaze and a growling. "I'm not ready for this Ari. It should have been me instead of you lying there. You were always an excellent captain. The whole crew looked up to you. They know me, they know who and what I am. How in the hell are they going to trust me? And how will I be able to go on without you?" Thurya sat looking at her sister and captain. She could feel the loneliness inside of herself. As every Weyrling did, she feared that she would fall to the madness next. She knew that all Weyrlings felt the loneliness. They weren't meant to be individuals. The Weyrlings had been a collective for countless thousands of years before the one became dormant three generations ago. After having made radio contact with the Earth Alliance and discovering that it wasn't alone in the universe, the One had started worrying. It had taken the old Weyrling race a long time to develop that crude radio communication device. From the long continious transmission from the humans in the Earth Alliance the One discovered that the young human race had developed the same technology in what compared as a millisecond in the one's life. It wasn't that the one was slow or stupid. It could process almost endless amount of data and come to a decision instantaneous. That was the problem the One decided, it came to one decision, that it didn't try anything else as it had already decided what was best. There wasn't any trial and error, no competition and no struggle. There was too much harmony. The One decided that to ensure the survival of the Weyrling race, it had to become individuals. In the beginning it seemed as the plan worked. With help from the Earth alliance in the beginning there was a quick technological spurt. Since then developments in all fields had reached unprecedented heights. The drawback was that all Weyrlings felt an inner ache, a longing for something missing, a loneliness. Thruya knew all this, but knowledge didn't stop the aching loneliness. The feeling was even worse now when it was augmented by the grief over Areia. The ways to deal with the loneliness differed. Thurya had used sex as a comfort. Her motto had been, if it walks and talks! Since coming to the ship Responder, the past night in the infarmary was the first one spent alone. Before they were assigned to the ressponder Thurya and Areia had spent alot of nights together exploring. But since they came to the Responder Areia had always turned down the invitaions from her younger sister. She said that a captain couldn't indulge in such things with the crew. Thurya hadn't been offended but always thought that Areia made too much fuss about being in command. She was already beginning to understand Areia better. The Responder was a small ship, arguments and quarrels where legio. Since taking command three hours ago she had already been forced to resolve an issue that had arised between anselm Jugg and crewman Jon, a misunderstanding really. Jugg had ordered Jon to take the third shift in engineering, without knowing that Jon had just finished the second shift. Jon thought Jugg was using his new command power to revenge himself on Jon as Jon had won the Last card game and had gained half of Juggs salary. It was a mess to clear up, especially as Thurya had used Jon as her lover almost the entire Last week. No one said anything but from the looks from Jugg she knew he wasn't glad about the outcome of her decision. He meant that she should have backed him as he had been the highest ranking officer at the time, any misunderstanding wasn't really an issue he thought. From now on, I'll have to be satisfied with my own company, Thurya thought sadly. Right now she could use some comfort. "-Captain to the Bridge", Anselm Juggs voice sounded on the intercom tearing Thurya from her thoughts. She let go of Areias tail that she had been holding. Holding the paw was to dangerous as Ariea still was too agressive from the madness but not weak enough from the anorexia to be trusted not to use her claws. Thurya looked again at her sister and whispered as she went to the door. "-I'll miss you Ari, why you, why now?" She wen't slowly towards the command bridge. After discussing implentation of the new tactic to be used in the coming training that was scheduled later that day, she went to her cabin to meet the new crewman that had arrived yesterday, at the same time thinking about who among her crew that would make the best corporal, it wasn't an altogether easy decision. Standing outside her cabin door when she arrived was the new crewman. As she approached he stood to attention. "-Captain. Crewman Try Eliason reports for service." "-At ease. Come in and sit down crewman Try.". As they went in Thurya thought about the information she had just received, Eliason, that was the family name of the Matriarch. So this crewman was a close relative to Elyssandra, interesting but mostly complicating, she thought. As if I didn't have enough of **** to deal with right now without this pile being dumped on me. Not that he looked bad though she thought. As he reached his files over to her and she started reading it she realized that he was quite competent too, high grades and good recommendations. "-What is your preferable area?", she asked. "-I'm not specialized in anyway, but I do like to fire the big guns!", he smiled as he said this. Thurya didn't feel in the mood to respond to that smile, "-Very well. Report to Anselm Jugg. Tell him to send gunner Moi to me and that she will be given a new task. You will be taking her place as gunner. You are dismissed.", She opened her desk and put the files in amongst the others. -"Yes Captain", as crewman Try left she thought to herself. So, my first major decision wasn't that difficult. Now I'll just have to give the news to Corporal Moi. Weyrling Empire 2406.1 ----------------------- Aboard the Battlecruiser Indestructible. Flagship of fleet Sledge. The private diary of Elyssandra Eliason, Grand Admiral of the Fleet, Matriarch of the Weyrlings and Hero of the Empire. /Start recording/ "-Soon I'll again feel the exhilaration of combat. And we will have alot more warriors in the weyrling military in a couple of months aswell. Maybe then my actions at Gamma Umi against the Sons of Thunder won't be such grand feats anymore. It would be nice if the 'Oh great hero Elyssandra' attitude towards me was somewhat diminished. These Dravens. They never cease to surprise me. When we told them to let us take the first fight they didn't act surprised. Here I thougth they were among the greatest cowards I've met. Always attacking in grand fleets, always outnumbering the enemy plenty to one. And then they go and send two fast destroyers aead of our fleet. Brave but stupid. Maybe they feel they need to prove a point for us. It will end with the destruction of those two destroyers though. I don't think they took our warning about the agressivness among the Terrans seriously. Well, they will soon know. I haven't heard anything from Illian since I got the confirmation that he had received the divorce papers. I was relived but sad when I got the news that he had signed them. Not a word from him... I thought you'd fight for me Illian... I guess I can't blame you, the way I've treated you before I went away. Try asked me on the shuttle to the Responder why I wanted a divorce. 'It's complicated', was the only answer I could give him. I hope things are going well on the Responder. Seeing the tragedy played out I decided we shouldn't be on the same ship me and my son. If the Indestructible goes he might still make it on the Responder. I know the Responder isn't as well shielded as the Indestructible. But being the flag ship is like painting a big target sign on our back; 'Here I am, come kill me!'. I think he'll stand a better chance on the Responder. If only that Thurya woman can get some grips on herself. Perhaps now that she doesn't have to compare herself to her big sister she can gain some confidence. The One knows she'll need it in the days to come. Oh those Ghouls, what to do about them. Admiral Tbon want's us to go to war. I don't think we're prepared for a two front war right now. And what about the CCCP, what would they do then. They've always treated us with the greatest respect and courtesy. But they are partners with the Ghouls. What an unbelivable couple they make, the wild Ghouls and the civilized CCCP! Now what to do with the Argon confederacy? They want our help but aren't willing to commit themself. Like children, always wanting but not prepared to give. They seem like a noble people atleast and my heart goes out to them, but they've rejected our help so I don't see what we can do! They will have to fend for themselves. Perhaps we can offer the remaining Argon population sanctuary amongst us if things goes really badly? What would the others in the Central Powers say about that? Those bickering goats! Can't they ever agree on anything? The Thermolians always taking the opposite opinion from the Dravens. If they had been in the same room I'm sure they would have started a fight at the Last Alliance Head meeting. I've never seen Yalare so mad. I though he'd explode when the Thermolians refused to agree to his proposal. Strange how he could control himself so quickly though! One moment mad as one can be and then, cool as ice, argumenting the Thermolians right into a corner they couldn't back away from. They just had to agree, that was splendid argumentation! I've never really liked those dead Thermolians, they give me the creeps." /Stop recording/ The same time at Kalzeroon I the scientist Illian Eliason was explaining to Marit the Warrior; "-When we switch the transmitter on, you will see the Womba cat in cage one go limp. That is the MI device shortening out. But just a few seconds later, you will see the Womba cat in the cage two also go limp. And that one doesn't have a MI device implanted. The Celia vortex gyri will resonate a harmonic psi pulse that will set the brains in synchronous though patterns. If they where Weyrlings they would think as one, but Womba cats aren't developed for that so they'll just go limp. That wouldn't happen to a Weyrling! We hope." "-Ok, Illian. If you say so I belive you. Now turn it on." Illian reached over to the transmitter and pressed down the green engage button. Then everything happened at once. The Womba cat in the first cage went limp. Marit who stood beside Illian fell to the floor at the same time. Illian released the engage button and called for help as he reached down for Marit. The medics who was there within seconds couldn't wake her. All vital functions where working as they should but the brain patterns where irregular and strange. "-She must have had a stroke!", one medic suggested. "-The parameters aren't consistant with a stroke!", another one replied. As no one knew what to do she was transferred to the city hospital and placed in the neurological ward. Illian was afraid that the new transmitter might have a side effect, causing brain dysfunction amongst some Weyrlings. No one else was allowed into the room when they experimented except those who had already participated when the transmitter was sending. Illian started to check and recheck every step of the theory and the transmitter to try to understand what had happened to Marit. Naturally this took time from the actual experiments and the work on awaking the one came to a halt. In the Destroyer Responder Thurya was sitting at the helm talking on a dedicated comm channel with a gunner control seat. "-Try, you must anticipate the moves of the fighters. The point defence cannon is not a fire and forget weapon. And as you're aiming I'd guess you'd thought it was a forget and fire weapon!", She laughed a bit when saying this. Gunner Try was really an excellent gunner. Atleast when it was the main guns he was shooting with. Firing on long ranges he could instinctively anticipate where the target would be when the beams reached it. With the point defence cannons it was a different thing! Sometimes Thurya thought he was playing with her. How could such a good gunner miss constantly on close range? She would joke with him first and later she would get frustrated. This time she told herself she would stop the training before she started yelling at him that he was the worst gunner she'd ever seen. And the worst part about it all was the feeling that he was having fun at her expense when she lost her temper. Areia never lost her temper, Thurya thought. Thurya was always thinking; 'What would Areia had done', when faced with a problem. The main problem was, she wasn't Areia, she would never be. She sighed as she thought that and at the same time watched Try's next attempt at killing the target drones. The same results as always, the drones lived to fight another day! "-Gunner Try. Practice is finished. Go about your non combat duties." "-Aye captain.", She heard over the comm channel. Try released the harness and climbed out of the gunners seat. From there he could control all the weapons on the ship. In actual combat all five gunner seats would be manned. Together the five gunners would control the four main cannons and the point defence cannon. Try started dismantling the point defence cannons sight display to calibrate it. When he wasn't training he was supposed to calibrate and maintain the weapons aboard. And help out wherever he was needed. Polish the ships interior, help in the kitchen etc. He liked target practice best. He was wondering how long he could keep this up, he had to keep missing the target drones with less and less marginal each time so that the captain wouldn't give up. The captain. She was a mystery. He could sense she liked him but she hadn't made any move yet. And a crewman didn't make a move on the captain! Life aboard a small destroyer in the Weyrling fleet was kind of tedious. There wasn't that much space around and not much to do. The 15 crewmen served five at a time in three seven hours shifts, except in battle when everyone was needed. Everyone slept in the same room. When you weren't working you either sleept, ate, trained in the gym, played cards or had sex. Try knew he was the only one aboard who hadn't done it with the captain. That made him feel like he had a special form of relationship with her. He knew it was self delusion. The captain hadn't had sex with anyone since becoming captain, you couldn't keep something like that secret on a small ship as this. But nevertheless, his relationship with the captain was different than for all the rest. When they met in the corridors it was mostly; 'Good job' or 'How do you get along on the ship' or something equally neutral. The only time emotions was shown was during training. As Try was wery slowly getting better the captain had increased his training schedule, he hoped he wouldn't have to prove his real competence at the point defence cannon yet for a while. he liked sparring with the captain over the comm channel. Sometimes she took control of the drones herself, then Try sometimes really tried to hit it, sometimes he actually did, then he shouted as if he'd never done that before, pretending it was just a lucky shot! He was determined to explore the mysterius captain, if she would just let him. He couldn't understand why she had shut away everyone from sharing the pleasure of her bunk. Perhaps it was the loss of her sister. The rest of the crew said they had been real close, he could tell that was true by observing her at the previous captains funeral. It was a shame if a woman such as captain Thurya would stop having sex forever, Try tought, as she was a really sexy cat! [ February 18, 2003, 21:57: Message edited by: Ruatha ] |
Re: Newbie Galactic Combat II - Story Thread
Hi Ruatha.
You said you wanted comments so here goes: First; it's too looong. Why don't you do as Atrocities and shop it up into smaller portions, see his story thread for ideas. Secondly, I think you should do well to choose a gengre and stick to it. So far you've changed the way to tell the story aswell as the contents from time to time. I mean, take this Last episode. What is it? A love novel? pornography? A mystery? A historical novel? Make up your mind and stick to it. And what is this thing you're doing with your main characters? First you had Ruatha as main character. Then you killed him and introduced a couple of more characters. In this episode you killed of another main character and crippled another, I wouldn't want to be a main figure in one of your stories!! Previously you had very few characters but in this episode the names have exploded to huge proportions! How are we going to keep track of all these people. And what is it, and Icelandic Saga? 'Try' the son of Illian and Elyssandra, son of.... CaptRR has written a more traditional sci fi story with a main character (Prince Draven) a bad guy and a mystery. Tbontob has aimed at the humerous angle and succeded very well, I like the names in his characters!! As I said before; find your angle and stick to it. On the other side this Last episode is an improvement when compared with the other episodes, but just to looong http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon7.gif What I like about this thread is the way you three are weaving your stories together, can't wait to read Tbontobs and CaptRR's next episodes! [ February 19, 2003, 07:00: Message edited by: Ruatha ] |
Re: Newbie Galactic Combat II - Story Thread
Ruatha, *<font color=purple>L</font><font color=#9933CC>O</font><font color=purple>L</font>* First the stories are 'Great'. Second, try to make them smaller pieces. I know that one isn't easy. But you will get more people to follow the story, if they don't feel like they are reading a novel. Just a thought. And I did make the same suggestion to 'Atrocities'. Third, there is nothing wrong with your style. It is 'Your Style' after all. Fourth, I have enjoyed the stories! Keep it up.
<font color=purple>mlmbd http://www.shrapnelgames.com//ubb/icons/icon6.gif http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/shock.gif </font> |
Re: Newbie Galactic Combat II - Story Thread
Thanks mlmbd for the reply.
I hope you log on now right after I post this? Otherwise I'll have to try again! Will have to check when it's morning in Texas... Hmm. You seem to be 7 hours behind us. Your Last post was 22.37 according to the forum, the forum is one hour behind me, so you posted latest at 21.37 my time or 14.37 your time(?) (Texas time). So I can't say that you've been up late. It's friday today. perhaps you go to work early? Say you get up between 7-8 and as you are internet addicted like the rest of us you sign on to the forum before breakfast. The first Lurk reports was posted about 14-15 (Swedish time), and you'd need parhaps an hour to do it. I should post between 12-13 swedish time or 5-6 in the morning Texas time(!!) to be at the top of the forum when you sign in... Which means I'll have to post again in 1-2 hours from now! [ February 21, 2003, 10:05: Message edited by: Ruatha ] |
Re: Newbie Galactic Combat II - Story Thread
Ruatha, You are 'Welcome' for the comments.
There is not an "Exact" time I do the <font color=white>"</font><font color=#9933CC>LURK REPORT</font><font color=white>"</font>. Just sometime after Midnight (Texas; Central Standard Time) on Friday. You did make the <font color=white>"</font><font color=#9933CC>LURK REPORT</font><font color=white>"</font> this week, in fact you are there "<font color=maroon>TWICE</font>"! http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon10.gif <font color=purple>mlmbd http://www.shrapnelgames.com//ubb/icons/icon6.gif http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/shock.gif </font> |
Re: Newbie Galactic Combat II - Story Thread
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Critiquing our own stories in public. What will we do next? Wish I had thought of doing that! Ruatha, are we so desperate for some feedback, any feedback that we look forward to reading our own critiques? About style, I did suspect you killed off "Ruatha" in order to try on a new set of clothing. But here is a thought, 'character developement'. Zaxxon with his paranoia was almost as 'nutso' as Ruatha in the beginning of this story. He is learning to control his paranoia, but it is still there, lurking in the background of his psyche to come out when the stress of the moment is great. My current concern is that I have made him too much of a stable character in a 'world gone crazy empire.' I thank you for your comments on my attempts with humor. If some of the ridiculous (but possible) events of the Zaxxon society has brought the occasional smile to the reader, I will have succeeded in my attempt. And I was wondering about the names and places. Like, were they striking a funny-bone? Or, was there a lot of internal groaning whenever the reader encountered a new one? I hope to submit a story soon. A family crises is abating and I am hoping the inspiration will begin to flow again. And I have a lot of catching up to do. I haven't read your most recent installment which I want to do right now! |
Re: Newbie Galactic Combat II - Story Thread
Hi Tbontob.
The real reason I killed of Ruatha is quite simple. In my single player Games I always called my race's leaders for Ruatha. When I started Newbie Galactic Combat I for some reason didn't. When I started writing I didn't think of this but then I started getting in-game Messages adressed to Matriarch Elyssandra. So I had no option but to change leader someway to make the game and the story consistent. I'm planning on developing Elyssandra some and Thurya more. So from now on Thruya is the real "main" character. I don't know why I suddenly stand with alot of female characters and a shortage of male ones. And I hope the "Respodner" doesn't get killed in the coming combats. Their first combat was a small one and a victory. More on that in next episode though. But I suspect there will be lots of battles in the future, now that I'm at war. About your story. I do find it amusing. I really liked their addiction/fear of bubblebaths! (I actually laughed for real when reading it!) Some elements though I belive are too obvious, as to what will happen I mean. But I'm not sure (Thinking of the future death of a certain official who is spending alot of money...) if I'm right though?? My favorite name is Loy Al tew deBone, I would like it if he proved to be a traitor, but on the other hand that would also be too obvious! And will the reverse engine tech lead to something ? I can't wait for this revolutionary tech to be finished! As to CaptRR. Who planted the Nuke?? Who is controlling that device?? You're building a real mystery here.... Tension is arising! I check the thread both here and at the Game forum each day to see if anyone of you have posted a new episode! I still hope someone else will come along aswell. It would be fun reading the thoughts of the Ghouls for example, as I'm having alot of trouble with them at current. [ February 21, 2003, 23:08: Message edited by: Ruatha ] |
Re: Newbie Galactic Combat II - Story Thread
Remember I'm a little behind Rutha in the stories department, I'm catching up and my next one should have me caught up to him, until then though...
___________________________________ Chapter 9 Commander Dravel was deep in a dream when the com woke him. Which was probably a good thing, since the dream was more of a nightmare, he had been having nightmares ever since the tragedy, he could not even remember one time that he had gotten a good nights sleep. He would always wake up in a cold sweat, images of people dieing by the hundreds of thousands, and he would see himself, helpless to do anything about it. Could do nothing as his people and his father were killed. No not killed, murdered, there was no doubt about that, someone had deliberately murdered all those people. Dravel wiped the sleep from his eyes, his military training, and years of being woken up in the middle of the night was already beginning to take effect, in a few minutes he would be alert. Alert for what though? He had transferred to Agamar, system a few weeks ago. Apparently there was some intelligence reports that the Terrens who had just got through a major power struggle might try to take advantage of the Republics weakened distraction with the Landing City Disaster. But that was neither here nor there, right now he had a message he had to answer. He rolled out of bed, and did a small stretch and activated the com on his desk, on the small screen Sasha immediately appeared. Sasha was beauty as far as Dravens go, and being one of the few females on a Republic ship, she was quite popular with the crew, but anyone who thought that she slept her way to the top would be mistaken, below the beautiful exterior was dedicated officer, and despite being in the communications field she was also a gifted tactician. Dravel had tried many times to move her up the chain of command, even trying to get her, her own command. She had turned him the offer's every time, her reply was that she simply "wasn't ready". He suspected that the young officer while being a genius lacked confidence. That would have to change, if she was to advance much higher than Captain. Dravel suppressed a smile, had she not been in his chain of command Dravel would certainly have tried to court her, but alas it was never meant to be, Navy regulations strictly forbid it. "This is the captain" Here voice was as beautiful as ever but there was something in it, a dread that seemed to permeate every sound, "Uh, Sir, sorry to wake you, but something just came over the News Service and I thought you would want to know." Dravel became worried, something bad had happen he knew it, could the Terrens have attacked? No that didn't make since, they were in lightly defended Agamar, a battle fleet would have invaded through here first, so what else could it be. He took a breath, he knew he wasn't going to like it, "what is it Sasha?" "Uh sir, I..." she stammered for a second, "I think you ought to take a look for yourself." A heartbeat later the com switched, it now showed a lady seated at a desk, there was a lot of activity behind her. Dravel recognized it as the Headquarters of the Dravel News Agency, and the reporter at the Desk was Lelar, the head reporter for the DNA. She was already talking, Sasha much of patched his com into the raw news feed. "...this startling news comes as no surprise to some, but to most it is a real eye opener, For the first time we now know who is responsible for the Disaster at Landing City." Dravel Froze, breathing seemed labored, every breath was a struggle. This is what he had been wanting to know for 3 months. Now that he was close to learning it he felt fear, if Sosha's reaction was any indicator he knew that the news was not going to be good, and that there was not going to be any trial, something bad was about to happen, Dravel could feel it. The reporter continued, "For those of you just joining us, The office of the Prime Minister today released the findings on the investigation into the Landing City Disaster. Most of report was general information about how Landing City was destroyed, but the most stunning of part of the report was the source of the Nuclear Weapon." Lelar, paused as the screen was replaced by a graphic of the letter, 1 sentence was highlighted and enlarged so it could be seen clearly. Lelar read it out as well. "It is the findings of this commission that the Nuclear weapon was in the 1 Kiloton range, and Isotopes taken from the clouds surrounding Landing City at the time, had been able to Identify the origin of the Fissionable Material as Sphinx." Dravel could feel the room spinning, he fought for balance, and gripped the table as tight as he could, he wanted to scream, to take his ship into Terren space and kill everyone in sight, ravage their planets. Make them feel the same pain that they had caused him. He fought back the tears. It could not be, he thought, what the Terrans had done is and act of war. They had killed half a million people, including several Central Powers Representatives, and most of all the President of the Republic. Certainly they must know that the Draven people would cry for revenge, and the Central Powers would almost certainly be drawn into the conflict. It didn't make sense, but it was true, and the repercussions were obvious. Commander Dravel looked back at the screen, Sasha was on it now, how long had she been watching him? He had no way of knowing, he calmed himself the best he could, "Sasha, did any other orders come in with the news cast?" Sasha hesitated for a moment, distracted at seeing her captain, no her Prince, after all he was destined to inherit the Presidency soon, in pain. She had to admit he was an attractive man, and as a women she had often fantasized what it would be like, to be joined to the Prince. All little girls dreamed of that fantasy ever since they heard the fairy tales that had been passed on from generation to generation. Most of those stories involved dragons and castles, and while modern time had neither the romantic air that surrounded it was still there, but Sosha pushed that thought aside, it was dangerous to think such things, it could spell trouble. If he ever knew how she felt it would destroy her carrier, at the very least she would be sent to another ship far away from him. "Yes sir," she stammered for the words, her thoughts still trying to come out, if only she could speak up, to go to him, hold him in his time of need. She would give him everything she had, some of her strength to help her prince, but it wasn't meant to be. "Yes sir," she repeated again this time with more confidence, "we are to proceed to the Agamar-Ansuroer warp point and wait for orders. If invasion of the system looks imminent we are to take any steps that we see fit to protect Agamr." "Thank you Sasha," he was able to see a hint of smile on her lips, but just a hint, "Tell the Navigator on duty to proceed to the warp point, when we get there put us on tactical alert, I don't want anything sneaking up on us." "Yes sir," and with that the connection was cut. Once again Dravel was left alone in the still dark cabin, the wine of the engines was the only sound, and while he new that a war was coming and he dreaded the massive loss of life that was to come, a part of him cried out for revenge, for his people, and for his father. Chapter 10 "Members of the Central Powers Alliance, the course that we must take is clear, our very future is at stake," Josha sat in the great hall of the Central Powers Alliance Headquarters and listened as the speaker of the Alliance made his speech. The Weyrling was tall, and could most be associated with what was once called a cat, although no one would say that to their face, everyone in the known universe had heard that a Weyrling could tear almost any creature in half with those sharp claws, although that was probably fiction, no one wanted to put it to the test. The new speaker a relative of the Weyrling's Matriarch had rocked the statuesque very little, much to Josha's surprise, but that was changing now as this speech was demonstrating. It had been barely 2 weeks since news of who caused Landing City's demise was released. The news agencies, which Josha suspected were now under the control of the Prime Minster, had shown massive protests, some wanted the Terren's leader's head on a plate, many more though wanted to take the fleet into terren space and wipe out everything. Josha had never seen such an outcry, and it was showing in the central Powers Representatives. Josha had tried to urge caution, tried to get the Representatives to wait, but he had failed. When the Weyrling's introduced a resolution to plan for military operations against the Terren Galactic Imperium, it had almost been Unanimous. Some Dravens voted against it, but not many. Josha knew that the representatives from his own Republic were up against a wall, the citizens wanted revenge, and if the Representatives tried to get in the way, they would be taken out of the way either at the next election cycle, or perhaps more forcefully. Emotions were running that high. The speaker continued, Josha could see the speakers mouth moving, but the translators took a second to catch up, "We have already voted for war, that is not the discussion, we must now allocate the funds to initiate the opertion this alliance had voted to initiate." Josha looked down at the terminal in his lap, being the Chairman of the Dravens Defense committee he had been put in charge of planning the Draven side of the campaign, despite his objections to the war, the plan he had put together was elegant and simple. The Weyrling's had put together a similar plan, when the two were combined it looked like a sure fire way of fighting the opening stages of this war. Sledgehammer was its codename, and it seemed to fit, never had any empire or alliance fielded the amount of ships there were to be used in this operation. At first Josha could not believe it himself, the logistics of it were mind boggling, the cost of it was more so, that's what this meeting was about, who would pay the bulk of the cost for the war. The Weyrling's wanted the Dravens to pick up the tab. The Dravens wanted the Weyrlings to. In the end it would probably be a combination of the two, but first the politicians had to play their little political game and see who could squeeze the Last credit out of who. Josha looked through the names on the list, ships, well over a hundred would be involved in the main fleet, and there would be even more before this is was over. The Dravel shipyards were operating at 110% now, and the newest Battleships were just coming off the lines, a new dreadnaught class was already in the works, again the cost was staggering, but no one seemed to mind now. Everyone was caught up in the fever of revenge, already the battle cry "Remember Landing City" was being circulate around the Draven ships. No one was concerned about the massive loss of life that was to come. As far as Josha knew a war of this scale had never been faught in the known universe, a war that didn't make sense. Why had they bombed Landing City? Certainly they must have known we would find out, and when we did, no peace talk would stop us. Josha forced himself to relax, the war was on, already the Terrens had declared war because they had been told to leave Draven Space. Although they had attacked no Central Powers Ships, it was obvious they they were staging for a massive attack. The Draven-Weyrling fleet was going to be assembled soon, and Josha knew of nothing that would stop the armada from destroying every Terren in its path. |
Re: Newbie Galactic Combat II - Story Thread
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<hears a ringing> Oh well dinners ready, talk to you all later. |
Re: Newbie Galactic Combat II - Story Thread
CaptRR, very nice chapter. Tis going to be a 'Great' story. It shows!
<font color=purple>mlmbd http://www.shrapnelgames.com//ubb/icons/icon6.gif http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/shock.gif </font> |
Re: Newbie Galactic Combat II - Story Thread
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I look forward to seeing how your "new" characters respond to crises. As to comment on what will happen to the certain official and Loy Al tew deBone will be to let the cat out of the bag. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon7.gif Up till now, I have been inputing my stories into the little screen on the PBW site. There were a number of problems with this, the most current one being there was no "save" feature. With the family crisis, I didn't have a large enough block of time to write the next chapter of the story. So, I am going to do something different and write in Word and then post it here. I will also post it on the PBW site, but as you know there is the problem of the PBW site messing up the punctuation. My plan is to provide a link from the PBW site(if it can be done) to this site for the readers who look for the story at the PBW site. I am hoping this will work. Consequently, my next chapter will probably be quite short as a part of its purpose will be to test to see if this will work. |
Re: Newbie Galactic Combat II - Story Thread
Well, here is the next 'partial' installment of the story. Hope this works.
================================================= The Zax Society THE LOCATION: Go More Ah, a provincial capital. Eston and Loy Al tew deBone were wending their way down the narrow crooked street of the poorest section of the city. The buildings were crowded together. Most were two or three stories with the second or third story extending over into the street. On occasion they blocked out the sunlight and pitched the ground into shadows and darkness. Eston thought the buildings were charming. It was drizzling and the overhanging buildings protected them from getting soaked. But, he didn’t like the stench! A yellow stream flowed in the gutter along the curb of the street. Feces, rotted food and other material he couldn’t identify bobbed along as the miniature river ran downhill towards the river. “You tell me he is willing to do it for 20 Zaxxonites, so why does he need to see me?”, Eston asked Loy Al tew deBone. “He is an eccentric. And he didn’t exactly agree to it. It is a small fortune and since he knows I do not have the money, he deduced I was asking for it on behalf of someone else.” Eston observed that Loy Al tew de Bone was unusually vigilant. Often the guard’s gait would slow as he scanned the shadows of the buildings they were to pass. Eston was starting to get nervous and tension was building in his shoulders. In exasperation, he said shouted, “So?” Loy Al tew de Bone responded with “Ssssshhhhh…” stopped, looked about carefully and continued with “It is his policy not to do any work unless he meets the person who wants it.” “But why does he …” Eston gasped with shock and pain as he was suddenly slammed into a building wall by Loy Al tew deBone’s shoulder. The watery contents of a bucket of feces fell at the spot where they had been standing just seconds before. Eston exclaimed loudly, “What the…” but was cut off in mid-sentence by the hand of Loy Al tew deBone covering his mouth. Scant inches from his face, he could see the guard’s eyes frantically scanning the street to see if they had drawn anybody’s attention. “Quiet!” he hissed. Seconds passed and then he slowly removed his hand with “Come, there is a basement pub over there where we can talk.” Eston looked about and could not see a pub or even anything that looked remotely like a pub. The guard took him across the street to a stairway which was so narrow that two people could not pass by each other. At the bottom was a heavy oaken door. The guard’s fist pounded on the door, and a slot in the door flew back and a voice demanded, “Yeh?” “We want a beer.” “Sez who?” “Blackheart, of the Sick Illian clan. “He’s dead! So fuc…” “If you don’t let us in, I will personally cut your heart out and eat it for lunch!” A long pause and then the door opened. The doorman stood respectfully back as they entered. “Come, let’s take that corner table!” As they seated themselves, Eston noticed that Loy Al tew deBone took particular care to ensure his back was to the corner of the room. “Wad ya want?” asked the barmaid. “Two Ke Ne Edians and make sure the government seals are intact!” When the barmaid left, Eston whispered, “What the hell is going on? Who are you? How do you know of this place? Who is Blackheart? Why doesn’t your service record show your connection to Go More Ah? What is…” Loy Al tew deBone sighed. “I was hoping to avoid this.” “I am the eldest son of the drug lord of the Sick Illian clan. Until a few years ago, I was the consigliore of the clan which effectively put me second in command.” “Our clan is engaged in all types of businesses including prostitution, numbers and drugs.” If it was illegal, we did it. My name was Blackheart and I was very good at my job. Our clan grew in strength from eighteenth place to second.” “Another clan grew envious of us and kidnapped my wife. They forced her to take a drug which is so addictive, so damaging, so life-threatening that…” “No!” injected Eston. “You don’t mean….” “Yes, the most addictive drug we know of.” “But it has been Banned on pain of death. Having any connection with it at all is a certain death sentence.” “Yes. But those who are addicted to it will pay any price to get it. The profits are enormous and our clan peddled the drug without conscience. And it is easy to administer, either by a needle or by drinking it.” “So, they kidnapped my wife and forced her to drink Kokka Kolla. I was too late to save her. As you know, drug rehabilitation is 99% ineffective. Worse it is a poison and after 100 or so fixes, the victim dies.” “I did everything to find a cure or an anti-dote. I tried to buy the formula of the product from the humans. But no one knows the formula except a few humans in a place called USSA and they wouldn’t sell. My efforts to kidnap them were unsuccessful. Our attempts to analyse it also met with failure.” “So, my wife died. I went crazy. I kidnapped the drug lords who were responsible. And their families including wives and children. Then I forced the drug lords to watch Kokka Kolla being administered to their wives and children. A few drug lords went crazy and tried to stop it. When one of them tried to interfere, we just hacked off a limb and cauterized it. As you know cauterizing a limb prevents it from regrowing which is an eventual death sentence in our clans as it is an obvious sign of weakness” “But even I grew sick of the suffering. Especially the little children. But it was too late to stop it.” “After that, my heart was not in my job and I left the clan and entered government service.” “But there is nothing of this in your record.” Eston stated. Loy Al tew deBone responded, “Yes, it is amazing what money and connections can buy. I am telling you this so that you know the danger we are in. No one, and I mean no one walks alone here. To do so is a sure sign of weakness and invites an attack.” “Walking with a non-resident is tantamount to walking alone as non-residents are viewed as weak and slow-witted. That also invites an attack. So, it is important not to do or say anything which shows you do not belong here.” The guard continued with “Which brings us to the topic of the forger. No one knows who he is, where he came from or even what he really wants. So we just call him ‘The Forger’. “ “I said he was eccentric. He is much more than that; he is absolutely paranoid. But he is a genius. It is virtually impossible to distinguish his work from the real thing.” ”All the crime lords use him to forge things. However, every few months, he would become paranoid that he was being ratted on to the police, so he would just disappear for 6 months or a year. This was bad business for us, because the work of other forgers was much inferior, which meant the cops, soon discovered and destroyed our businesses. With the arrests, expenses skyrocketed and it became unprofitable to do business.” “So, the crime lords met to see if something could be done to limit his paranoia. A fund was created with all the crime families contributing equally. The sole purpose of the fund was to track down all the members of a family who ratted on the ‘The Forger’. Since the families have been contributing to it every year, there is enough money now to track down and kill any aunt, uncle, niece, nephew, aunt or uncle of any member of the family ten times over. “Did it work?”, asked Eston. “Yes, it does reassure him. On occasion, he will leave abruptly, but the frequency and duration is much less than it used to be. Now, it may be for only a week or so.” “Which is why I urge you to say as little as possible. The less said, the less likely he is to become paranoid.” “But we should leave now. If we are late, it can set off his paranoia.” The information had overwhelmed Eston. He needed time to digest it. Even though he wanted to ask dozens of questions, he quietly rose with Loy Al tew deBone. The double and triple storied buildings no longer appeared charming to Eston. He now felt they were crowding in on him with hidden menace. |
Re: Newbie Galactic Combat II - Story Thread
Hmm, The Loy character is developing, he is more complicated than I thought.
Also, I won't buy any fizzy beverages tonight, I don't want to become addicted. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/tongue.gif |
Re: Newbie Galactic Combat II - Story Thread
tbontob, nice, very nice! I will be looking foward to the remainder!! http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon7.gif
<font color=purple>mlmbd http://www.shrapnelgames.com//ubb/icons/icon6.gif http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/shock.gif </font> |
Re: Newbie Galactic Combat II - Story Thread
Thanx guys, here is another partial installment. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon7.gif
The Zax Society THE LOCATION: ZAXXON’S BEDCHAMBER OF ZAX CENTRE THE DATE: 2408.61 Zaxxon had just come out of a troubled sleep. He looked hollow-eyed and haggard. All night he had tossed and turned. He was depressed. The troubles of the society were weighing him down and there was no relief in sight. Worse, his personal life was in a shambles. He had no news on his beloved Zaxxoness. He felt he should have heard something by now. There was just this awful silence. He missed the comfort his Zaxxoness gave him. Many times each day he would blame himself for the separation. Often he would spiral into a deep depression and when he did, he was unrelenting in his condemnation of himself. In particular, he wished he had spoken up immediately to quash the proposal to combine the fleets to attack the CCCP. By not doing so, he had caused his beloved Zaxxoness to leave for Elstonile. He only got out of bed when the High Chamberlain entered the bedchamber to announce that it was time to dress and prepare for the meeting with his department ministers. THE LOCATION: THE SEMI-OVAL OFFICE OF ZAX CENTRE THE DATE 2408.62 THE PEOPLE: Zaxxon, R2D2, Dip-low-Mac-Sea, Spii, Strong-of-the-Arm Custer and Cord-Il-Era. The meeting had just convened. “Good News, Mr Central Speaker. We have made contact with the Weyrlings!” “Wonderful, Dip-low-Mac-Sea. But are you absolutely sure?” asked Zaxxon. “Yes, there is no doubt about it. And I have sent the diplomatic message to Ruatha, the god-emperor as we had agreed upon.” “Good, good. Have they replied?” “Not yet. In diplomatic circles, it is unusual for a response to take so long. Puzzling in fact. I’m wondering if we should have been more direct in our message.” R2D2 interjected, “Maybe Ruatha is taking stock of his resources to ascertain the help he can give us. Maybe he is thinking of gifting us cruisers or battle cruisers to teach the CCCP a lesson. That will explain the delay.” “Hear, hear!” shouted the members of the meeting. Zaxxon spirits lifted. He thought, “This would be good news. Why else the delay? That must be the reason for the it!” A smile came to his face. “Help is on the way!” he thought. “We certainly could use their help!” said Strong-of-the-Arm. Warp points have been cleared of mines. Some warp points have been destroyed. So far we have won the skirmishes, but the true test will be if they come in force.” “What is the condition of our fleets?” “More than half have been upgraded! A few more months and they will all be upgraded. Also, significant numbers of modern battle cruisers are on station.” Without hesitation, Custer stated, “Sir, I want to reiterate that we should combine our fleets and strike at the CCCP or one of their allies now!” Zaxxon’s heart flip-flopped! To agree to Custer’s proposal would alienate his Zaxxoness even further. If only she were here so he could discuss it with her to get her agreement. In his heart, Zaxxon knew something should be done, but he prevaricated with “Now is not the time. When we are stronger, we can implement your plan.” Sensing the lie, Custor’s face momentarily showed his impatience and disgust. “Would it be in order for me to draw up detailed plans?” Zaxxon felt he was being crowded into a corner out of which there was no escape. |
Re: Newbie Galactic Combat II - Story Thread
tbontob, 'Excellent' read. I will be waiting on your next installment! http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon7.gif
<font color=purple>mlmbd http://www.shrapnelgames.com//ubb/icons/icon6.gif http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/shock.gif </font> |
Re: Newbie Galactic Combat II - Story Thread
Hi guys here is the next installment. Hope you enjoy it.
================================================= The Zax Society THE lOCATION: GO MORE AH. Eston walked silently with Loy Al tew deBone as they wended their way through the twisted streets of Go More Ah. Eventually, they came to a vast clearing in the center of the city. Looking again, Eston saw it wasn’t empty. The rusted steel skeletons of buildings pointed into the sky like the rotted teeth of a carnivorous animal. Bricks, stone, metal girders, rusted cars and other junk littered the vast space before them. “He’s in there?” asked Eston. “Yes.” “Where?” “Right there.” Loy Al tew deBone pointed towards the middle of the so-called clearing. “Where?” “It’s an underground bunker. Forty feet of the best reinforced concrete you can buy and lined with titanium. “It must have cost a fortune.” “Yes, he has been well paid for his services by the crime syndicates.” After a short pause, the guard continued with “This place is booby trapped. Nobody knows how many. I wouldn’t be surprised if were in excess of a thousand, maybe as many as ten thousand. There are even rumors that he has a small nuclear device. “A nuclear bomb?” “Yes, and I have no doubt he would use it if he believed he was on the point of being captured by the authorities. Of course, the booby traps are not a great concern to the cops. It is the nuke which has them worried.” “Yes, I would imagine it would.”, Eston replied absentmindly. “And this isn’t his main refuge. No one knows where he hides out when he is in the throes of his paranoia.” “So, don’t wander off. And don’t touch anything no matter how interesting it looks. It could be your life and possibly mine as well.” “How do we get in?” “We start by taking that path there.” Loy Al tew deBone said, pointing to a spot between rusted cars and jumbled up stones with rusted girders. The path was narrow and Eston had to follow in the footsteps of Loy Al tew deBone. Eston sensed movement and realized they were being tracked by a number of security cameras along the path. After 50 feet, they entered a very small clearing which had four paths radiating from it. In the center was a fat pole with a number of buttons. Loy Al tew deBone pressed the largest button and a slot opened. “Whatever metals or pLastics you have, put them in the box.” Loy Al tew deBone said as he put change, watch, keys and his belt buckle into the box. “You don’t have any internal metals like pins”, he asked When he received a negative answer, he asked “How about organics?” “No, I don’t. What is all this?” asked Eston. “It is part of his security system. Now check again, because if you have forgotten anything, I can assure you he will find out and if he doesn’t kill us, he will never give us an opportunity to see him again.” “What about your shoes?” to which he received the reply “They are stitched leather, no metal.” Assured that all metals and pLastics were in the box, Loy Al tew deBone shut the box and after a moment, a voice instructed them to take the left path. After another 50 feet, they entered another clearing, identical to the first. They were told which path to follow. They entered another identical clearing. “This is a maze.” said Eston. “And did you notice all those cameras following our every move.” “Yes, and there are pressure sensors on the path, infrared sensors, vibration sensors and God knows what else.” Eston goggled at the guard, “All those?” “Plus some devices we have probably never heard of.” Receiving further instructions, they continued on their way to the next clearing. After a while, Eston lost count of the number of clearings they entered and exited. Eventually, they came to a large clearing. A small structure the size of a telephone booth was at its center. The sides, door and roof were constructed of a transparent material, which allowed an unrestricted view of its interior. Eston and Loy Al tew deBone crowded into the booth. Closing the doors triggered a mechanism, which caused the booth to descend. In addition to its downward movement, the elevator slowly rotated on its axis. Within a short length of time they lost all sense of direction. Being pitch black, they also had no idea of the distance they had traveled as they moved downward. Eventually, the elevator stopped, the doors opened and a dim light flicked on revealing a vehicle the size of a golf cart. They entered the cart. “Make sure you buckle up, it’s going to be quite a ride.” Loy Al tew deBone instructed. The light flicked out and after 30 minutes of twists and turns they arrived at their destination, a huge cavernous room. Eston had no idea where they were. They could be 15 miles away from the booth or have doubled back and be right next to it. The huge room was not partitioned. Eston could see the sleeping area in the farthest corner on his right. The kitchen was on the farthest left. In front of him were tables containing chemical apparatus. Along the walls were machines of various sizes and shapes. Out of the shadows, limped a short man who looked old and unkempt. However, his eyes were sharp and piercing and his skin was that of a young man. “Blackheart, you old rascal! And who is this?” “His name is Eston and he wants to purchase the seal from you.” “You do, do you? And why do you…” Suddenly his eyes narrowed. “He’s a cop!” “No, no, he isn’t!” exclaimed Loy Al tew deBone. With amazing swiftness, ‘The Forger’ approached and sniffed Eston like a dog. “He’s a cop!” “I tell you, he isn’t!” “If he isn’t a cop, then what is he?” “He’s a government employee.” “Same thing! Get out! Get out!” exclaimed the forger and ran to his sleeping area. After making hand motions to Eston to not move, Loy Al tew deBone ran after ‘The Forger”. Eston could see “The Forger” jamming clothes and other articles into a bag. He was close enough to catch the conversation. “Must leave! Must leave!” “He is not a cop!” “I trusted you! Why did you bring him here? And he is a cop!” “We need the seal to scam the Zaxxoness. And if a crooked government employee is a cop, then I guess he is a cop.” “He’s a crook?” ”Yes! He wants to scam the Zaxxoness!” “One of us?” “Yes!” “No. No. No. Not possible. Not possible. Even a crooked cop is bad news.” “In all the years we have known each other, have I ever cheated you?” “No.” “Have I ever lied to you?” “No.” “We need you to do this for us.” “No. No. No. Not possible. Not possible. You are twisting my brain!” “You said you would do it for 20 Zaxxonites.” “No. No. No. I said I could do it for 20 Zaxxonites once I saw the buyer! “Well here is the buyer!” “He’s a cop!” “What is the price to sell to a crooked cop?” “No price. No price. Not possible. Not possible.” “There must be a price!” “OK! OK! 20,000 Zaxxonites!” “That’s impossible!” “See, I told you! Not possible. Not possible. Now get out. Get out!” “It’s possible.” “Huh?” “I said it is possible.” “Not possible, not possible.” “It is possible.” “Not possible, not possible. Must be in old unmarked bills no larger than 20 Zaxxonollars.” “That’s impossible!” “See, I told you! Not possible. Not possible. Now get out. Get out!” “You never asked for it to be paid in paper money! Why now?” “Traceable. Traceable!” “Electronic transfers?” “Yes, yes. Trace the transfer and I lose everything!” “Gold, jewels?” “Yes, yes, Change the molecular structure. Can be identified anywhere. Then lose everything. Everything.” “If they can change the molecular structure of gold or jewels, can’t they do the same for paper money?” “Yes. Paper money flat. Able to change the molecular structure back.” “You can do that?” “Yes, yes. Must be thin for me to do it.” “You can roll gold into thin sheets. “Yes, yes. Must also be non-metallic.” “We can do it.” “No. No. I say impossible. You say impossible. Not possible. Not possible.” “It is possible.” “Impossible. Impossible for me.” “Impossible for you? Why? “Going on vacation. Impossible. Impossible.” “You are going on a vacation now?” “Yes, Yes.” A pause, and then “No, No.” “You are not going on a vacation now? “Yes. Yes. Few days.” “Why not go now?” “Must finish job for At Hilla daHun.” “You must finish a job for the crime lord, At Hilla daHun?” “Yes, yes. Rail gun.” “A rail gun? Whatever for?” “Discovered wife in flagrante delicto with lover. Want to punish both. “Punish them?” “Yes, yes. Put them in capsule and shoot them into space on a trajectory towards the sun. Not hit sun but spiral orbit around sun. Watch lovers look into each other’s eyes as they slowly fall into the sun. Taunt them with a water tube only one can have. See how much they really love each other before they die. See if they willing to sacrifice themselves for the other before they die. “But all traffic to and from the planet is monitored. It will be discovered and boarded” “Yes, yes. But able to cloak it for a short time. Not see. Not see. When cloak breaks down, don’t matter. Don’t matter.” “Won’t the acceleration kill them?” “No, no. Extra long rail gun. Power usage over longer period. Difficult to detect when in operation.” “Why don’t you leave now?” “Kill me! Kill me! He crazy. Crazy. Driven by revenge. Revenge. If can’t kill them in way he wants, will take his revenge out on me. Agreed to do it. Don’t do it, then feels justified in exacting revenge on me. Die either way. At hand of At Hilla daHun or crooked official.” “I see.” “So angry, so angry. Blinded to it’s potential. Once used, then I own it. Good for smuggling contraband off planet. Not realize this. Make a lot of money with no investment. Mega Zaxxonites to build. No cost to me.” “When will you have it done?” “Four days. Maybe three.” “How long will it take you to create the seal?” “Not possible, not possible.” “Why?” “Where you get the paper money?” “Let us worry about that. How long?” “A day. A day. But will not stay to do it!” “Agreed. We will get back to you.” “Not want to do it. Not want. Must have money here first before I do it.” “I know my friend. I will see you shortly.” Loy Al tew deBone joined Eston and said, “Come! Let’s get out of here before he changes his mind.” Retracing their steps and following the instructions given by voices emanating from the poles, they eventually collected their valuables and emerged at the edge of the large clearing. “You seem troubled, my friend.” observed Loy Al tew deBone. Eston jumped. He was wondering if The Forger and Loy Al tew deBone had staged the meeting to get 20,000 Zaxxonites out of him. They had sounded convincing but they both had criminal backgrounds. And really, what was one more crime to them? “Yes, 20,000 Zaxxonites is a huge fortune. More than double what we paid for the jewels and clothing. And I don’t like paying 20,000 for something that is only worth 20. The way I see it, we have three choices. The first is to go back to Zax Central and get a genuine seal. That will delay matters for months and I don’t know if Zaxxon will be able to cope for that long. When I left, he was on the verge of a major nervous breakdown. This may be enough to tip him over the edge.” “Two, we can go to one of the other forgers and pay him 20 Zaxxonites to make the seal.” “And three, we can pay the 20,000 Zaxxonites to the “The Forger.” “Well,” said Loy Al tew deBone I cannot speak to going back to Zax Central. And whether to pay 20,000 Zaxxonites or not is a value decision only you can make.” “As for going to another forger, I am sure we can get one of the other forgers to do it and probably for considerably less than 20 Zaxxonites, maybe even less than 5 Zaxxonites. The question is, will it convince the Zaxxoness? I have seen her pick out a diamond from a pile of zircons at twenty paces. I don’t know how she did it. Probably something in the shine or refracted light. We could try it, but if we fail, we will not have a second chance. “I do know this,” Loy Al tew deBone continued, “If we want to purchase the seal from The Forger, that decision will have to be made soon. It will take time to accumulate that amount of paper money in used unmarked bills.” Eston and Loy Al tew deBone entered the hotel lobby after midnight. Eston was so deep in thought he didn’t notice the smirk on the concierge’s face. They had rented the whole penthouse of the hotel for their entourage. As the elevator door opened, they heard laughter and giggling. Seconds later they observed that the nobles were in various stages of undress with beautiful women who were similarly undressed. Wine and liquor bottles littered the hallway. Most couples were so absorbed in their lovemaking that they were oblivious to their presence. Loy Al tew deBone picked up a bottle, “Hmmm. Bonaparte 1801. Expensive. Like outrageously expensive.” Then he looked at some of the women. “These are not street whores. These are top of the line professionals who will only see someone on appointment and then only on their terms. To make an appointment with them, you must have money and lots of it. Where did they get it?” He looked at Eston and saw the stricken look on his face. “You didn’t! You didn’t give the nobles the clothing and jewels?” Eston didn’t reply. He walked woodenly into his suite and closed the door. ============================================== The plot thickens. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon7.gif Anybody want to venture a guess on what happens next? http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon12.gif |
Re: Newbie Galactic Combat II - Story Thread
tbontob, great stuff, here! Indeed, the plot thickens. I am stoked! http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon10.gif
<font color=purple>mlmbd http://www.shrapnelgames.com//ubb/icons/icon6.gif http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/shock.gif </font> |
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