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File: Broken Empire 3.jpg (253 KB, 1600x900)
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The bridge rocks back and forth, equally destructive fire is exchanged between both sides.

The remainder of your fleet concentrates on locating and securing possible survivors of this bloody battle, whilst your strikers instead concentrate on pelting the remaining enemy cruiser.

“Fire on deck 3 !” Calls out one of the bridge officers, the chaotic situation all around has been growing in volume, as more breaches are reported, more unlucky crewmen caught by the explosive M.A.G. rounds are either killed instantly or jettisoned out to space.

The head-on fight, reminiscent that of rams duelling, shifts to a new phase as neither side seems to be all too enthused about ramming one another.

A shame, I could have really showed them my specialty. You give yourself a moment to muse.

With both ships presenting their broadsides to each other, more plates of armour are stripped off, more damage reports are called out.

“Warrant officer Gavril Radu to bridge, our portside barracks just got blown out ! Either finish this fight now, or we will all be sleeping in corridors !” The annoyed voice of your best friend calls out. With your command style, you think you can see why he wants to retire.

“Sir, detecting explosion, off the enemy portside, ammo detonation confirmed.” Quickly informs you the sensors officer.

And he is correct, what a sight to behold. The entire port broadside of the enemy Vigilance-class is torn out, the force of the burst, assisted by space’s endless desire to strip away life, sees dozens of screaming menials in space suits thrown into the void. If they are lucky, they shall be caught by your men and they will be killed quickly, if they are not, they shall face a slow death via asphyxiation.

“Sensors, enemy power output ?” You ask, keeping your voice steady.

“I am reading cascade failure, sir. Most systems losing power, what remains of her is dead in the water, Captain.”

“Good, Tetreault have a wolf keep an eye on that thing, the rest of force shall continue their search for survivors.” Hopefully, I will find whichever bastard transmitted that high-priority message. If only Baron were here, he could secure that ship blindfolded.

Search for survivors 1d100 best of 2

Whilst that operation is undergoing, how shall you deal with crippled cruiser ?

>Just blow it away, you need not risk more lives of your men.

>Once the survivors are secured, have your officers prepare their marines. Most of the trophies will belong to them, but you only really need one person, don’t you ?

>Transmit a message demanding their immediate surrender, if you’re in luck, they might still have something to actually receive your message with.
>>
Useful links:

Military/Noble rankings https://pastebin.com/gLcTWzXE

Archive Links https://pastebin.com/uWJ38wnz

Timeline of the setting https://pastebin.com/bzhWWDkj

Ships https://pastebin.com/8LxdVHfm

Dramatis Personae https://pastebin.com/epJfFJd7
>>
Rolled 8 (1d100)

>>5147449
>>Just blow it away, you need not risk more lives of your men.
>>
Rolled 11 (1d100)

>>5147449
>>
>>5147449
>Once the survivors are secured, have your officers prepare their marines. Most of the trophies will belong to them, but you only really need one person, don’t you ?
dice hates vips
>>
>>5147449
>>Just blow it away, you need not risk more lives of your men.
>>
>>5147449
>Transmit a message demanding their immediate surrender, if you’re in luck, they might still have something to actually receive your message with.
>>
>>5147449
>Just blow it away, you need not risk more lives of your men.
>>
>>5147449
>>5147476
Changing to this
>Transmit a message demanding their immediate surrender, if you’re in luck, they might still have something to actually receive your message with
>>
>>5147449
>Just blow it away, you need not risk more lives of your men.
>>
Anon who are for blowing the crippled cruiser, i would like to remind that we can always blow it up if they do not surrender and it would not take that long to hear the reply.
>>
>>5147449
>Transmit a message demanding their immediate surrender, if you’re in luck, they might still have something to actually receive your message with.
>>
>>5147449
>Transmit a message demanding their immediate surrender, if you’re in luck, they might still have something to actually receive your message with.
>>
>>5147449
>Transmit a message demanding their immediate surrender, if you’re in luck, they might still have something to actually receive your message with.
>>
>>5147449
>>Once the survivors are secured, have your officers prepare their marines. Most of the trophies will belong to them, but you only really need one person, don’t you ?
>>
>>5147449
>Once the survivors are secured, have your officers prepare their marines. Most of the trophies will belong to them, but you only really need one person, don’t you ?

we need to search for a Baron replacement asap
>>
blow it 4

prepare marines 2

message 5
>>
>>5148919

whoops, forgot to ask.

1d100 best of 3
>>
Rolled 1 (1d100)

>>5148930
Let's hope this run of bad luck is over...
>>
Rolled 95 (1d100)

>>5148930

>>5148932
Ya jinxed it
>>
>>5148940
And I believe I saved it. 95 is a critical success, so it should knock dat 1 out.
>>
Rolled 4 (1d100)

>>5148930
>>
WTF DICE
>>
The Dice Gods are cruel.
>>
>>5148948
Surely they are trying to send a message 1 + 95 + 4 = 100, but what do they mean
>>
>>5148952
It’s clearly a sign that they want us to have that 100, it’s too freaky otherwise. The Dice Gods work in mysterious ways.
>>
>>5148955
I agree
>>
>>5148932
>>5148940
>>5148945
holy fucking shit my dudes i cant handle this
>>
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These past few rolls have been rage inducing. Losing Baron, and now this, good God, what did we do to deserve this?
>>
>>5148969
Lets us pray together that qm see the clear signs from Dice gods
>>
What do you expect when the crit range is the same as if this were a best of 3 d20 system with crits on 1 and 20?
>>
“Comms, send a message directed towards the cruiser, demanding their immediate surrender, if they do not, we will blow them to kingdom come.” You deliver the order.

“On it, sir.” Quickly responds the comms officer

“Tetreault, how is the rescue operation going ?”

“Poorly, captain. Despite our effort, we were able to locate only a few survivors. As it stands, Lord-Commander Lloyd Labranche is missing in action.” Almost mechanically, your XO reports the casualty numbers.

“Captain !” Hurriedly calls out the sensors officer. “Large energy signature rising from the cruiser.”

“Weapons ? Are they trying to blow themselves up ?”

“No, sir.” Cuts in the comms officer. “They seem to have jerry-rigged their comms to transmit at much stronger output than usual, they are frying their comm system whilst transmitting.”

“Are they sending it in any particular direction ?”

“No, captain. The signal appears to be generalized.”

“They are most likely calling for help.” Surmises Tetreault.

A few thoughts quickly flash through your mind.

How to deal with the cruiser ?

>Send in the marines, we do not have much time.

>Just destroy the ship. I’d rather not be caught and encircled

Presuming you don’t get intercepted, how should you act ?

>Hold formation, they enemy will come right for us, saving time.

>Time to depart, if all the remnants rally, there’s a chance that they could overwhelm us.
>>
>>5148981
>Send in the marines, we do not have much time.
time to earn their paychecks

and afterwards

>Time to depart, if all the remnants rally, there’s a chance that they could overwhelm us.
>>
>>5148981
>Send in the marines, we do not have much time.

>Hold formation, they enemy will come right for us, saving time.
>>
>>5148981
also what is being transmitted, do we have any means of knowing?
>>
>>5148981
>Just destroy the ship. I’d rather not be caught and encircled
>Time to depart, if all the remnants rally, there’s a chance that they could overwhelm us.

I’m just done with our round of bad luck. Can we just destroy the refueling station and be done here? Losing Baron really killed the fun outta this engagement for me.
>>
>>5148981
>Send in the marines, we do not have much time.
I do this fully expecting the cruiser to suicide on us, again.

>Hold formation, they enemy will come right for us, saving time.
Better to be organised and meet this force head on. Considering how the rest of the local units reacted, and response force is only going to be here because this cruiser is important, and not because they want to. We need that thing hostage.
>>
>>5148981
>Just destroy the ship. I’d rather not be caught and encircled

>Time to depart, if all the remnants rally, there’s a chance that they could overwhelm us.

We can just pick them off later as they disperse. We should not risk destruction here due to greed.
>>
>>5148981
>Send in the marines, we do not have much time.
>Hold formation, they enemy will come right for us, saving time.
>>
>>5148981
>>Just destroy the ship. I’d rather not be caught and encircled

>Hold formation, they enemy will come right for us, saving time.
>>
>>5148984

>also what is being transmitted, do we have any means of knowing?

You could try to crack it, but it is encrypted so it would take some time.
>>
Marines 4

Destroy 3

Leave 3

Hold 4


Holding and sending marines wins.

1d100 best of 3
>>
Rolled 5 (1d100)

>>5149260
>>
Rolled 15 (1d100)

>>5149260
>>
Rolled 58 (1d100)

>>5149260
>>
>>5149266
lmao
>>
Getting one squad of marines killed wasn't enough for you morons?
>>
>>5149320
No, i will do it again
>>
>>5149320
Marines will continue to die until morale improves
>>
>>5149320
Might as well, it's not like they're going to survive the next mission we send them on either if the dice are any indication.
>>
>>5148974
By Being stingy and not reinforcing the marine company when we had the chance and capital. Might have saved some of barons men if we did.

>>5149260
Ffs guys just destroy the enemy ships. They rarely are worth the losses and risks unless we cap them in dock unready.
>>
>>5149921
>not reinforcing the marine company when we had the chance

I thought we payed good influence to reinforce our men. Did we not do that?
>>
>>5149937
our marines are dead, son
>>
>>5149937
>>5149978
i apologize my brain went haywire, yes we did
>>
>>5149937
Yes we did, anon is tripping
>>
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You begin reorganizing your force, awaiting any contacts that would come here in response to the transmission.

Meanwhile, Marc and Ioanna had sent their marines onto the cruiser.

Awaiting any news, you hold position. The occasional blow out from the cruiser informs you of heavy fighting, and at one point you forward a comms request to Marc, wanting to find out what is going on.

“Lord-Commander Ashing, how’s our progress looking ?”

“Ah, well, Captain. Reports from my men indicate that the cruiser has been turned into a bunker complex. They are finding it difficult and painful to advance further in.”

“Can they break through ?” You ask, slight irritation audible in your voice.

“They believe they can, sir. It will take time.”

“Alright, report to me whenever we make progress, dismissed.”

Just as the conversation comes to an end, your sensors officer turns to you.

“Sir, a large detachment of frigate level signatures and a handful of destroyers is on approach.”

“Begin repositioning the fleet to meet them, draw ranks closer, use the debris as cover.” You swiftly begin giving out orders one after another.

Shortly thereafter, you get a visual on the enemy force, and it puts you in a slight predicament.

“Sir, they have enough missiles to overwhelm our AS, given time, and we do not know if more enemies are coming.” Grimly informs you Tetreault.

“And if we move, we lose our cover and leave the cruiser exposed.” You mutter back.

To charge, or not to charge, that is the question.

>Full burn ahead, we will swat them aside before any more Raisatans arrive.

>Hold position, whomever is on that cruiser is clearly important, we capture him, maybe we can stop their attack.

>(Write in)
>>
>>5150111
>Hold position, whomever is on that cruiser is clearly important, we capture him, maybe we can stop their attack.

At this point I'm tired of bad RNG getting our men killed. I just want this shit to be over with.
>>
>>5150111
Open a comm link. Inform the enemy force that if they get any closer our fleet will blow that cruiser to smithereens. Whoever is on there is obviously important to them, so this should give them pause and buy us time.
>>
>>5150111
>Hold position, whomever is on that cruiser is clearly important, we capture him, maybe we can stop their attack.
>>
>>5150111
>Full burn ahead, we will swat them aside before any more Raisatans arrive.
>>
>>5150111
>>Full burn ahead, we will swat them aside before any more Raisatans arrive.
>>
>>5150111
>>Hold position, whomever is on that cruiser is clearly important, we capture him, maybe we can stop their attack.
>>
>>5150111
>>Full burn ahead, we will swat them aside before any more Raisatans arrive.

Focus all fire on the enemy Bullseye-class ships. We must destroy them before they can fire their missiles.
>>
>>5150111
>Have each Vigilance take a flank and then turn to get a broadside against the enemy frigates so as to prevent us from being swarmed. The group with the two wolfs in it is to take the center to screen the raider which will also be in the center. The Raider is to focus on the enemy bullseyes. Our own group of strikes and remaining frigates are also to focus on the enemy bullseyes.

We have to buy time for our marines and destroy the enemy before enemy reinforcements arrive.
>>
>>5150111
>Full burn ahead, we will swat them aside before any more Raisatans arrive.
Do or die
>>
>>5150111
>(Write in)
Hail the approaching force and demand they cease their advance or else we blow up the light cruiser.
If that fails to stop them, full burn.
>>
>>5150111
>>Full burn ahead, we will swat them aside before any more Raisatans arrive.
Smash them before they can mass more of their missile batteries
>>
Hold 3

>>5150145 2

Full burn 7 >>5150215 (counts to burn)

Okay, you are meeting the enemy head-on.

2d100 best of 3

first for you,
second for marines.
>>
Rolled 4, 96 = 100 (2d100)

>>5151057
>>
>>5151075
>another combined 100 with crits

Ok, the Dice Gods are definitely trying to tell us something.
>>
Rolled 49, 31 = 80 (2d100)

>>5151057
>>
Rolled 86, 83 = 169 (2d100)

>>5151057
>>
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“We’re meeting the force, full burn ahead. Inform our elements within the cruiser to hurry up.” You state as your ship’s engines fire up and propel you forwards.

The enemy Bullseyes, seeing you charging them, release a withering barrage of missiles, whilst the wolf-classes charge you at surprising speed. First volleys are exchanged and proper battle begins.

The beginning goes poorly for you, the last two remaining combat frigates are annihilated in moments, Marc’s cruiser is filled with holes, Horus itself also takes a pounding. Your Guardian-class struggles against the sheer number of missiles, but it at the very least prevents any killing blows from landing upon you.

The Defenders around Bullseyes shoot down most incoming missile fire from your Strikers, realizing the futility of the attack they switch towards the frigates, whom in their charge had abandoned their AS cover. Scoring a couple of kills.

A piece of good news does come however, the marines aboard the Vigilance-class have made astonishing progress, all things considered. They only need a bit more time to secure the VIP.

2d100 best of 2
>>
Rolled 24, 25 = 49 (2d100)

>>5151122
>>
Rolled 96, 28 = 124 (2d100)

>>5151122
>>
Rolled 49, 84 = 133 (2d100)

>>5151122
>>
File: Shu21.png (614 KB, 6522x4881)
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The last remaining Raider, commanded by Datz, obliterates a trio of wolves and charges onwards, reaching the Bullseyes and delivers a killing blow to one of them.

The remainder of enemy frigates at the front are annihilated by the strikers, without having to concentrate on the small grouping, your Vigilances sail onwards, delivering might broadsides, decapitating the last two Bullseyes.

As this happens, the enemy Defenders begin to turn about and prepare to retreat. You are about to issue orders to chase them down and finish this fight, when your sensors officer informs you of pertinent information.

“Sir, sensors readings. Hostile destroyer and couple of frigates. I am also detecting more of these tiny forces gathering around our area.”

“How many in total ?” You question.

“Perhaps a dozen destroyer signatures scattered about with frigate escorts, they seem unorganized, sir.”

“Comms, get me Marc, and tell him that I want to know how his marines are progressing.” You bark out a quick order.

Marc, with still bleeding cut on his forehead quickly materializes in front of you. “Captain. Reporting on my men. They seem to have suffered heavy casualties, but they have pushed the Raisatans to the last few rooms. They are in control of the remnants of the main bridge and the reactor room.”

“Good, tell them to secure the presumed VIP as soon as possible.”

With Marc disappearing, your mind begins to race.

>Chase the remaining Defenders, lest they rally with other elements. (A force can be split off.)

>Turnabout, you’ve nearly secured the cruiser, you need just a few more minutes.

>You’ve gotta admit, what you’ve gotta admit. You’re beaten and bloody, time to call for help. (Can be taken alongside other options.)

>(Write in)
>>
>>5151425
>Turnabout, you’ve nearly secured the cruiser, you need just a few more minutes.
We're rapidly approaching combat ineffectiveness, any more combat seems ill-advised at best and downright suicidal at worst. Hold the Cruiser until the Marines can finish the job and then get the hell out.
>>
>>5151425
>Tell the remaining Defenders to surrender, the battle for this system is lost.
If that fails
>Turnabout, you’ve nearly secured the cruiser, you need just a few more minutes.
I'm honestly tired of these nonstop crits playing with my emotions.
>>
>>5151425
> Turnabout, you’ve nearly secured the cruiser, you need just a few more minutes.

Not very Proenza but our element is mauled.
>>
>>5151425
>Turnabout, you’ve nearly secured the cruiser, you need just a few more minutes.
theres a fine line between rashful, and outright suicidal. Proenza has gotten waaaay too good of a gig for him to just suddenly throw it all away within a few days.
>>
>>5151425
>Turnabout, you’ve nearly secured the cruiser, you need just a few more minutes.
>>
>>5151425
Split off our remaining Raider to attack the fleeing defenders. The rest of our fleet is to rush south-west (or whatever you call directions in space) and attack the incoming enemy force.
>>
>>5151425
>>Chase the remaining Defenders, lest they rally with other elements. (A force can be split off.)
>>5151425
>>
>>5151425
>Turnabout, you’ve nearly secured the cruiser, you need just a few more minutes.
>>
>>5151425
>Turnabout, you’ve nearly secured the cruiser, you need just a few more minutes.
we can't fight more
>>
>>5151425
>Turnabout, you’ve nearly secured the cruiser, you need just a few more minutes.
>>
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“We’re turning about, ignore the cowards.” You state as your force begins to rush backwards.

“Sir, more ships entering visual range.” Calls out the sensors officer.

Looking upon the tactical display, you can think of a few options.

>Strike each group individually with your full force, hopefully no one reaches the cruiser in the meantime.

>Split your force to intercept individual groups. (How?)

>Simply surround the cruiser and hold off anyone foolish enough to contest you.

>(Write in)
>>
>>5152097
>Strike each group individually with your full force, hopefully no one reaches the cruiser in the meantime.
Target that destroyer group. Piecemeal they can't hope to overcome us, our primary objective must be to prevent the enemy from grouping up.
>>
>>5152097
>Strike each group individually with your full force, hopefully no one reaches the cruiser in the meantime.
We should destroy 2 smalls and cruiser first, overwhelmed them with missiles with our cruiser making sure they can not go to guardian.

Also we really should inform our allies about our situation, not as call for help but that they know that enemies are most likely converting to this location
>>
>>5152109
>Strike each group individually with your full force, hopefully no one reaches the cruiser in the meantime.

+1 solid plane:
>>5152109
>>
>>5152156
Just so you know, you ping at me two times
>>
>>5152158
Sorry, the intention was to mark the last post from QM.
>>
>>5152097
>>Split your force to intercept individual groups. (How?)

Both vigilance class attack the group with the guardian, all other ships attack the group with the raider.
>>
>>5152097
>Strike each group individually with your full force, hopefully no one reaches the cruiser in the meantime.
>>
>>5152097
>>Simply surround the cruiser and hold off anyone foolish enough to contest you.
>>
As one 4

Split 1

Surround 1

2d100 best of 3
>>
Rolled 72, 46 = 118 (2d100)

>>5152533
>>
Rolled 64, 1 = 65 (2d100)

>>5152533
>>
Rolled 17, 50 = 67 (2d100)

>>5152533
>>
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Rolled 42, 79 = 121 (2d100)

>>5152533

>>5152552
>>
>>5152552
i can hear the dice gods maniacally laughing
>>
>>5152552
FUCK!
>>
This is starting to feel like mister bones wild ride.
>>
File: Shu23.png (675 KB, 6522x4881)
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Horus slides onwards, the jittering, the occasional sputters, rocking you back and forth. Your ship had been beaten and battered to hell and back. You need to finish this battle before your ship simply breaks apart due to combat stress.

Another issue is exhaustion, your men had been fighting for a long time now, and it is beginning to show. Your only consolation is the fact that the Raisatans are probably just as tired, if not more.

Gavril’s voice booming in your ears does not help the situation.

“The leftmost engineering bay is gone. Dammit Fergus, I had stashed some booze there.” An annoyed voice calls out.

“I’ll buy you some after we get back to friendly territory, real good stuff, none of that cheap shit.” You respond with humour.

“You better, and I want that fancy “Majestueux Ivre” that nobles drink.”

This light conversation helps to calm both of your nerves. But the jovial mood is cut short, as you finally reach the out of position Raider and its Defender escorts.

Your Vigilances open up, accurate M.A.G. rounds break apart the Defenders. Strikers quickly begin to overwhelm the enemy Raider, with it weakened, Datz moves in for the kill, easily ending the threat.

Unfortunately, your sensors officer informs you that another grouping had appeared. More and more of these small groupings are closing in ever closer.

You can only hope that the marines do their damned job as soon as possible.

------------------------------
(POV shift: You are Lieutenant Clianth Vitali, under command of Lord-Commander Lord-Commander Marc Ahsing, and you’re bashing your ahead against Raisatan bastards.)

The fighting had been tough. The marine contingent on this ship is far too large than it normally should have been. Their equipment is worse than yours, but the sheer ferocity and number of the defenders evened the odds.

Every corridor was reinforced, every corridor had a heavy weapon installation, every goddamned corridor had fanatically suicidal Raisatans holding them. Every single centimetre was taken at the cost of your men’s blood.

“Lieutenant Vitali, my men report that they’ve breached the living quarters area. Fighting was bloody and it devolved to hand-to-hand combat, but we took it.” Reports Lieutenant Amr Seid, leader of the marines of Lady-Commander Ioanna Datz, subordinated to you for this engagement.

“Alright, all we need to do is push down this main corridor, after that, we should have the captain’s quarters in arms reach.” Turning to your XO, you ask. “How’s the rest of the ship looking ?”

“Everything seems secure, but we had to abandon a lot of the positions, our forces are stretched far too thin.”
>>
>>5152758

“It will have to do, Seid, I want your men to-“ A screaming round pierces Seid’s visor, the shards impacting your own, droplets of blood staining your vision.

“Ambush !” Screams out your XO

Hopping into cover, you curse before opening fire.

“Sir !’ Through the loud barks of rifles calls out your XO. “Reports coming in, the Raisatans are pulling this off across the ship. Regular crew are literally throwing themselves upon us, acting as meat shields to their marines !”

Crazy fucking fanatics.

“No choice then, beat them back !” You shout out the only real order you can give.

------------------------------
(End of POV shift.)

2d100 best of 3
>>
Rolled 35, 96 = 131 (2d100)

>>5152761
>>
Rolled 25, 1 = 26 (2d100)

>>5152761
>>
Rolled 13, 27 = 40 (2d100)

>>5152761
>>5152785
What the fuck is going on with these fucking back to back crits something is extremely fucky right now.
>>
Rolled 30, 38 = 68 (2d100)

>>5152761
>>
>>5152785
>>5152797
what the fuck
>>
At this point I'm willing to blow my own brains out just to end such shitty RNG. Do we have to ram another ship just to get us to fuck off and move on from this star system?
>>
>>5152797
Please, god, someone make a sacrifice to RNGesus! Or just change the goddamn crit range so it isn't the same as one of the dumbest systems questing has ever considered a good idea (3d20, crits override)
>>
>>5152854
tbf tho a 1 is mostly all the time a crit fail so....
desu im laughing now
>>
>>5152854
Proenza must destroy his entire command every mission. This is tradition.
>>
>>5152928
THE COMMAND WILL CONTINUE TO DIE UNTIL MORALE IMPROVES
>>
>>5152921
That's fair, I was more referring to us pin-balling between getting non 1 or 100 crits every turn.

>>5152928
I'm sure our glorious countess will be caught somewhere between being impressed and exasperated at the contrast between our glorious success at discovering the cloaked ships/how much tonnage of enemy ships we've blown to bits and our abysmal losses.
>>
At this point I'm thinking we should just blow the damn ship to bits, but knowing our luck it'll have a nuke onboard that'll wipe out half our fleet. Goddamn this shitty luck.
>>
Okay, I am seeing a lot of discontent lately. So I will put it to vote:

>Change crit range - 1 crit fail and 100 crit success

>Keep the same crit range

With the new system, crit fails should hopefully decrease, but at the same time, you anons will be unable to pull off some of the shit you had previously, since crit successes will also decrease.

If the new system is chosen, it will apply to the following prompts.

And if you anons can think of better systems, I am always willing to listen.
>>
>>5154099
>>Keep the same crit range
Don't be a whiny baby. This is the way.
>>
>>5154099
>Keep the same crit range
>>
>>5154099
>Keep the same crit range
We've been getting a lot of Nat 1s as of late, and the extended crit range has a chance to balance them out. I just mainly want this mission to be over with, losing Baron really took the fun and the fight outta me, and these last couple of conflict rounds have really been playing with my emotions, so I'd appreciate a breather if we can finish this somewhat soon.

Also, mind if we call in some help now? I mainly just want to get off Mr. Bones Wild Ride at this point.
>>
>>5154099
>>Keep the same crit range
>>
>>5154099
>Keep the same crit range
>>
>>5154099

>Keep the same crit range.
>>
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Horus’ starboard opens up, slagging an unfortunate wolf-class caught by the railgun rounds, stripping away its armour piece by piece before reaching the vulnerable internals.

The rest of the fore joins you soon thereafter, devastating fire is unleashed upon the Guardian, piecing deeply into its insides, disabling the vessel.

Datz’s Raider takes on some nasty fire from a concentrated barrage of wolves, send ahead of the Raider they had been escorting, but the frigates explode in a myriad of blooming reds and yellows, their lack of AS allowing your strikers to shine.

Still, your force is straining, more and more damage is mounting, with Datz’s ship now also pummelled, you have no idea how long you can hold.

If nothing else, we’ve done a damn fine job in mopping up the rear. The only consolation about the rather precarious situation you find yourself in.

For now, no reports are forth coming about the progress on the cruiser, but you do not have the time to worry about it, as your sensors officer, ever the bearer of bad news, once more reports.

“Sir, another destroyer and escorts have entered visual range, luckily they are out of position to be involved in the current engagement.”

You have to take whatever small blessings you can.

2d100
>>
Rolled 49, 47 = 96 (2d100)

>>5154426
>>
Rolled 5, 5 = 10 (2d100)

>>5154426
>>
>>5154099
>Change crit range - 1 crit fail and 100 crit success
>>
Rolled 91, 100, 71, 20, 60, 19, 87, 20, 58, 91, 48, 78, 33, 86, 81, 81, 84, 9, 52, 30, 9, 19, 14, 29, 44 = 1314 (25d100)

That it, am exorcing the dice
>>
>>5154458
Well then...

...This is certainly confirmation that we are indeed cursed.
>>
Rolled 36, 86, 85, 29, 31, 68, 68, 8, 98, 17, 52, 81, 45, 91, 36, 22, 1, 23, 44, 9, 60, 1, 14, 86, 44 = 1135 (25d100)

>>
>>5154482
There goes all our good dice.
>>
Rolled 60, 58, 54, 77, 52, 47, 43, 74, 55, 39, 91, 79, 61, 67, 15, 90, 100, 38, 96, 90, 89, 14, 66, 50, 92 = 1597 (25d100)

>>
>>5154486
It should be better now or atleast i feel better so win-win
>>
Rolled 36, 97 = 133 (2d100)

>>5154426
>>
>>5154482
>91, 100

>>5154426
QM please tell me that you're taking the first two rolls of >>5154482 please.
>>
>>5154554
It dont say best of 3, most likely he will take >>5154441.
>>
Gone for two days and everything is on fire again. Proenza needs a vacation after this. Maybe Alpi or Tets can teach him how to noble or something. Ballroom dancing or fancy parties, or whatever nobles do.
>>
>>5154720
We didnt start the fire...
>>
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With the engagement swinging heavily into your favour, you are about to deliver the coup de grâce, but before you can decapitate the enemy destroyer, it diverts all power to its engines, charging full on ahead.

Your cruisers are unable to keep up with the ship, but your striker missiles slam into it, leaving it full of holes, however that is not enough to stop it.

Despite Datz’s efforts to pull back, both Raider slam into one another. For the first time, you finally witness what ships ramming each other looks like, and it is not a pretty sight.

Metal meets metal, as both vessels tear each other apart, plates are ripped off, entire sections are expelled into space, whilst other pieces of superheated material fuse together, forming a macabre mockery of the vessel’s original look.

Unfortunately, you have no time to admire, or perhaps be shocked by the sight, as you are once more snapped back to the present by the alarmed voice of the sensors officer.

“Sir, more enemies have entered visual range. Moving full speed towards the cruiser.”

You turn towards the tactical display and see another Raider and Guardian with a single Wolf arriving on the battlefield, not to mention the forces already burning towards you.

“Comms, get me Marc, I need that VIP secured, now.”

------------------------------
(POV shift: You are Lieutenant Clianth Vitali, and you are up shit creek without a paddle.)

You’ve beaten back the ambush, at a heavy cost. Your force is down to less than 30%, on the bright side, the Raisatans are just as equally bloodied.

You grab a magazine off your XO, bits of his guts still staining it. You’ve nearly run out of ammo. Your left shoulder burns with every move.

The suicidal assault achieved some results, you’ve been pushed out of the main bridge, but you managed to barely hold on to the engine room. The situation there is still tethering, your men are hemmed in and surrounded, but holding their own.

“Private, gather whatever is left near the engineering bay, move down to the engine room and make sure that it is secured.” You call out to one of marines.

“The rest of you, on me, we have to break through.”

As you rise, you feel a sharp pain course through your body. Grunting, you make sure to stand as stable as possible.

Rifle bursts once more fill the hallways, whatever grenades, explosives, or volatile material in general you have, are chucked onwards, the explosives cause screams to rise. The hallways are scarred and mutilated.

Your men fall dead on the floor as they try to break through, in exchange you deliver suppressive fire and manage to clip and occasionally deliver a killing blow.

Ignoring the losses around you, as that is the only option available, you hurl yourself onto the closest Raisatan. Smashing your rifle against his head, you are able to knock the bastard down. He tries to jump back up, but before he is able to do so, you deliver a bullet straight through his visor.
>>
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>>5154877

“Go, keep moving !” You call out, ignoring the chaos all around you. These subspacers have proven themselves to be rabid dogs protecting their master, if you can capture the VIP, maybe, just maybe, you can force them to stand down.

Hurling your last charge, you blow open the door, opening up the final corridor, in which there is only one door, the door to the captain’s quarters. Just as you are preparing to bash it open with your fist if you have to, it rises.

Stepping out is a person in a piece of armour that you’ve never seen in your life, it appears crude in places, almost as if it was put together using entirely separate parts, whilst other pieces look elegant and ornate. He raises his left arm, which holds a pistol, of what type you are unsure, but before you can raise your rifle in return, he open fire twice.

You halt in your tracks, paralyzed for a moment, before you can comprehend what happened. There are no wounds on you, looking back, you see two Raisatan marines lying dead on the floor, pinpoint accurate rounds having smashed right into their visors.

A distorted, almost metallic voice, sharply grinding on your ears comes out from the figure. “Contact your superior, I am willing to negotiate.”

Only now do you notice two small drones flying behind the man. Nothing more than two railguns that float, but even from there you can tell that the material used to make them is rare and expensive.

------------------------------
(End of POV shift.)

“Sir.” Marc’s form materializes in front of you. He looks unsure and confused. “The, uh, the enemy VIP wishes to negotiate. He requests that you give him access to a comms network so that he could call off the Raisatans. And, uh, he wishes to converse with you now.”

“Does he now ? He’s not really acting as a prisoner of war, now is he ?”

“Well, sir. It appears that he, how should I put it.” Marc struggles for a moment. “Killed the last Raisatans aboard, and my men are far too few in number to force him to surrender.”

I’ve heard of many things, but that one is new.

>”Well, his “majesty” can wait. No way in hell I am giving him a superior position, we beat back whomever he was able to call to his aid, then we will see how much he wants to “negotiate”.”

>”Fine, give him comms, he better have something worthwhile to say, and prep rescue operations” (An extra dice roll for Datz)

>(Write in)
>>
>>5154883
>>”Fine, give him comms, he better have something worthwhile to say, and prep rescue operations” (An extra dice roll for Datz)
>>
>>5154883
>”Fine, give him comms, he better have something worthwhile to say, and prep rescue operations” (An extra dice roll for Datz)
>>
>>5154883
> Fine, give him comms, he better have something worthwhile to say, and prep rescue operations” (An extra dice roll for Datz)
>>
>>5154883
>”Fine, give him comms, he better have something worthwhile to say, and prep rescue operations” (An extra dice roll for Datz)
>>
>>5154883
>”Fine, give him comms, he better have something worthwhile to say, and prep rescue operations” (An extra dice roll for Datz)
Talk about bloodshed in space. There's probably more liquid than air in that damn ship at this point.
>>
>>5154883

>”Fine, give him comms, he better have something worthwhile to say, and prep rescue operations” (An extra dice roll for Datz)
We better get a couple of fucking exosuits for this guy
>>
>>5154883
>>”Well, his “majesty” can wait. No way in hell I am giving him a superior position, we beat back whomever he was able to call to his aid, then we will see how much he wants to “negotiate”.”
>>
>>5154883
>”Fine, give him comms, he better have something worthwhile to say, and prep rescue operations” (An extra dice roll for Datz)
>Call in help from our allies

Can't wait for Datz to get shanked by our shitty RNG. I'm willing to accept his complete surrender, otherwise we're blowing up his ship with no survivors, and fuck the consequences.
>>
>>5154883
>”Well, his “majesty” can wait. No way in hell I am giving him a superior position, we beat back whomever he was able to call to his aid, then we will see how much he wants to “negotiate”.”
>>
>>5154099
>Keep the same crit range
honestly many crits are better than fewer crits
cuz its more action and suspense and rewards

>>5154458
i lost it giggleing

>>5154883
>”Fine, give him comms, he better have something worthwhile to say, and prep rescue operations” (An extra dice roll for Datz)
huh plots thiccening
>>
Give comms 8

Tell to him to wait 2

writing.
>>
>>5155412

Almost forgot

1d100 best of 2 for Datz
>>
Rolled 20 (1d100)

>>5155413
>>
Rolled 96 (1d100)

>>5155413
>>
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>>5155416
Champion.
>>
>>5155418
That's actually how I imagined Alpi. And thanks!
>>
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>>5155416
Fucking finally.
>>
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”Fine, give him comms, he better have something worthwhile to say, and prep rescue operations.” You begrudgingly state.

Tense moments pass, as a new set of long-range comms equipment is sent down to the cripple cruiser. Moments spent locked into a dangerous dance with hostiles on the field, but soon enough, your comms officer turns to you.

“Sir, the VIP appears to be sending encoded messages. Similar burst to when the Vigilance fried its own comm system to send out that strengthened signal.”

“Anyway to decipher it ?” You question.

“Presuming we can get our hands on the equipment, yes.”

“Good, have it secured as soon as possible.”

With that last statement, you watch as the enemy forces begin standing down and drawing a safe distance.

“Captain, enemy signatures are still drawing near, but they seem to stay at the edge of tactical range.” Reports the sensors officer.

“He could be potentially buying time.” Tetreault voices your thoughts.

“He could be.” You don’t deny the statement. “And if he is, we will obliterate him until nothing but atoms remain.”

“Captain, the VIP is connecting, voice only, sir.” Chimes in comms.

“Let it through.”

You grimace as a distorted voice, sounding like metal rubbing against metal is heard. “I presume that I am conversing with the one in charge of this little operation ?”

“You presume correct, I am Knight-Captain Fergus Proenza, and your actions caused the deaths of a lot of good men, so I’d like to know why I shouldn’t just end this conversation by having a M.A.G. round slam into where you are standing.” You do not even bother to try and be diplomatic, this day has worn you out enough as it is.

“Aggressive, I see. Very well, I shall get straight to the point. I had been personally invited by the dear leader of this little member of the star league. These men here have all been brainwashed to willingly server their master, and more of them are gathering around us as we speak. The only thing keeping them from pouncing upon your weakened force, is me.”

Arrogant shit.

“Now that I had clarified this, I will also like to point out that I was merely contracted to fight for, and alongside the Raisatans. I have no personal quarrel with you, the ducal house, or the empire as a whole.”

And now you are trying to weasel yourself out of the situation. Slimy prick.

“I am willing to share pertinent information, my expertise and talents to your house, for a fair price. Now then, I find that conversations in person are always more productive. I do so request to be allowed aboard your vessel, so as to conduct these talks with more civility.”

>”Fine, get him aboard.”

>”Blow it out your ass ! All guns, fire !”

>”I am not letting you onto my ship. I am coming aboard myself.”

>(Write in.)
>>
>>5155429
>”I am not letting you onto my ship. I am coming aboard myself.”

I don't see why not to take him up on his offer. We need a replacement for Baron, as much as it pains me to say it.
>>
>>5155429
>>”Blow it out your ass ! All guns, fire !”
>>
>>5155434
Can we at least hear him out before we decide to throw him out an airlock?
>>
>>5155429
>”I am not letting you onto my ship. I am coming aboard myself.”
Keep an open comm link between the marines and our ship, and order Marc to blow up the cruiser we're meeting on if anything goes wrong and get the hell out of here.
>>
>>5155429
>”I am not letting you onto my ship. I am coming aboard myself.”
>>
>>5155429
>”I am not letting you onto my ship. I am coming aboard myself.”
>>
”I am not letting you onto my ship. I am coming aboard myself.” You state, no way in hell will let a weird person like that anywhere near Horus. Bastard could have a mininuke™.

“That is also acceptable, I shall await your arrival at the captain’s quarters, now please excuse me.” The sound of a weapon discharging is heard from the other side.

Momentarily shocked, your comms officer turns to you. “Sir, I do not think we will be able to decipher the message anymore.”

Sighing, you simply rise from your captain’s chair and without another word you move towards the hangar, but before that, you hop into the captain’s quarters and put yourself into your power armour.

You coincidently arrive there as one of the rescue transports returns from its mission, and stepping out from it is a perfectly fine looking Datz, whom upon noticing you salutes.

“At ease, Lady-Commander. Any injuries ?”

“None, sir. I was able to reach an escape pod before everything fell apart around me.”

“Good, you and your men get some rest, but before you go, I need what marines you have to come along with me.”

“Yes, sir.” Datz responds without blinking an eye.

That solves one issue. Not all too fond of being all alone with mister screech. Since what troops you have there are all nearly dead.

Arriving at the cruiser, you are greeted by the sight of mutilated corpses all around. What men that are still alive are currently busying themselves retrieving corpses of their dead comrades.

Passing them by, you move directly to the meeting place. The areas you pass by are marked by combat, turned over crates, specially made bulwarks, heavy weapons positions, and plenty of dead bodies that once held these locations.

Stepping into the captain’s quarters, you find the VIP, along side five corpses. Four of them are in out of date power armour, but newer than most on the fringes, whilst the last corpse wears a fanciful uniform, the captain more likely than not.

“Ah, good. You have arrived.” States the only living figure in the room before your arrival. “Do excuse me, cleaning is not my forte, nor can I be bothered about it.”

You realize that the metallic voice fits the person very well, as he does seem to be more metal than man, or at the very least that is your assumption. The armouring is too thin for power armour, but despite the fact that your height has been increased by magnitudes, the person still towers over you.

Two little drones float around the room absentmindedly, but unmistakeably prepared to pounce in a moments notice, those tiny railguns are fully powered.

The person sits down on one of the larger chairs in the room. It audibly creaks and groans, trying to hold up the persons weight.

“I am certain that you have some questions, feel free to ask. Of course, we can start negotiations right now instead.”

>Questions (Write in)

>”I have none, and I’d rather not give you any time to gather more forces.”
>>
>>5155592
>Questions (Write in)
So to who/what am i speaking with?

And who is your true master?

And why should i keep you alive i.e. what do you offer?
>>
>>5155592
> The Raisatans fought like rabid dogs over you, why?
>>
>>5155592
>”I have none, and I’d rather not give you any time to gather more forces.”
>>
>>5155592
QM, EMP grenades are part of our arsenal?
>>
>>5155592
>Did you have anything to do with that cloaked ship I and my men destroyed some hours ago? I find it hard to believe there are two unconnected secret actors flying around this area of space.
>>
>>5155592
>>”I have none, and I’d rather not give you any time to gather more forces.”
>>
>>5155592
Question: How many of these fuckers are on the way, what kind of sh8ps to they have?
Also before we hire you, i want to see a portfolio of what the fuck you are even capable of
>>
>>5155592
>Questions (Write in)
What are the details of your contract. How long and how much
How much autherity were u given.
What is your skillset and specialty.
What if any steathships are u aware of operating in this region.
What information fo you have on prometheus.
Tell us of the brainwashing. Ho does it work
Are all of their people slaves?
What is the goal of your employer.
>>
>>5155820

You do. Presuming that whatever systems the person has are not isolated, grounded, and that he is not protecting himself from EMP via advanced material similar to exo-suits, you could knock him down.

Writing.
>>
You ponder for a moment just killing the man, or cutting the conversation short, but you decide against it, your curiosity gets the better of you.

You sit right across the person and begin your tirade of questions.

“First things first, so to who or what am I speaking with?”

“Oh, yes. Please excuse my lack of manners. You may refer to me as Iron. I am best known by that name, yes.”

Of course he would name himself something like that.

“Right, who’s your master ?”

“Master ?” The person begins to chuckle before it turns into full blown laughter. After a while, he calms down and continues. “I serve no master, but myself.”

“The Raisatans fought like rabid dogs over you, why ?”

“No, not me, him.” He gestures at the presumed captain’s corpse. “The fifth born of the dear leader.”

“Then why did you kill him ?”

“He outlived his usefulness, besides, he might too try to negotiate.”

You are glad that you have a helmet on, otherwise, your sour expression could be visible.

“Do you know many more ships are coming ? Their types.”

“No, but I do know that they will be enough to overwhelm and destroy you.”

Cunt.

“What are the details of your contract ? How long and how much ? How much authority were you given ?”

Tsk, tsk, tsk. That, I cannot reveal, confidentiality and all, I am sure you understand.”

Gritting your teeth, you continue the questioning. “What is your skillset and specialty ?”

You are certain that the man is smiling whilst answering you. “Engineering, research, both tactical and strategic advice and command. I am also fond of history, philosophy and music, as well as a myriad of other subjects. I pick things up easily, you see.”

Make sure you don’t trip on all of that smugness.

“Tell us of the brainwashing ? How does it work ? Are all of their people slaves?”

“Are we all not slaves ? Subjected by our environment, upbringing, and genetics. So are all of these people, day in and day out, endless propaganda shapes and changes their beliefs. They are subjugated people, fully convinced that the intrusive thoughts planted within them are their own. Indoctrination is perhaps the greatest invention of man, perfected over millennia of our existence.”

A philosopher alright.

“What is the goal of your employer ?”

“Victory. What else could there be ? Presuming their assault succeeded, the Shuan Peoples Democratic Republic.” He says, sarcasm dripping when he states the nation’s name. “Would become the most powerful within the league, perhaps even the leading member, and in due time, the only member.”

You ponder for a moment, the mans looks are unique, too unique for your liking, so naturally you ask the only question that could come to mind. “What information do you have on Prometheus ?”
>>
>>5156619

An amused chuckle can be heard. “Prometheus ? I do not know if I should be honoured or insulted by your question. Yes, I had worked for them before, they had hired me, but I can assure you, everything you see on me were inventions of my own. As for providing information on them ? I cannot reveal any secrets, but things in general can be talked about.”

Of course he’s worked with terrorists.

“Did you have anything to do with that cloaked ship I and my men destroyed some hours ago? I find it hard to believe there are two unconnected secret actors flying around this area of space.”

“A cloaked ship ? I will have to disappoint you; it has nothing to do with me. If you still have intact databanks, I could try to decipher them, free of charge, for my own curiosity is piqued.”

Ignoring him, you move onto another question, you are certain that this, if nothing else should annoy him.

“And why should I keep you alive ? That is, what do you offer ?”

“Every single static fortification, shipyard, space station, refuelling and mining station. I can disable all of them within the league. Free of charge, anything more will cost you extra.

And no offence, but before you even consider so. I doubt you could afford my full service, though I do offer packages where I provide my expertise in a limited field. If you cannot, or simply do not want to, afford so. Please contact, Countess Lauritzen, I believe. I am sure my abilities will be of interest to her.”

>”I have no more questions, let us start our negotiations.”

>”I have no more questions, I will contact the Countess.”

>”Not so fast, I still want to know somethings.” (Write in)

>(Write in)
>>
>>5156622
>”I have no more questions, let us start our negotiations.”

Fuck it, I'm game.
>>
>>5156622
>”I have no more questions, let us start our negotiations.”
obviously as we are the ones getting him to work for us we get some neat notes in our resume

also a question about the setting, are there any life prolonging medications and or technologys around yet? considering Irons talk about his broad field of expertise makes me wonder how deep his actual knowledge goes.
>>
>>5156622
>”I have no more questions, let us start our negotiations.”
We're keeping this smart ass. Though we'll probably have to hand him over to the countess eventually. Give him whatever materials we scrounged from that cloaked ship too.
>>
>>5156670

>also a question about the setting, are there any life prolonging medications and or technologys around yet?

There are plenty. Genetic modification, cybernetic replacements can easily prolong ones life to upwards 200 maybe 300 years. These methods are of course expensive. Prolonging life further than that is rare and primarily experimental, whether they succeed or not is more or less a coin toss.
>>
>>5156622
>>”I have no more questions, let us start our negotiations.”
>>
>>5156622
>”I have no more questions, let us start our negotiations.”
If these negotiations work out, leaving him guarded by marines equipped with EMP grenades would be a good idea.
>>
>>5156758
Honestly, the only reason we'd keep marines around him is to stop somebody else from grabbing him. I have strong doubts as to their effectiveness against his suit and drones.
>>
”I have no more questions, let us start our negotiations.”

“Splendid. Now, as I said, my prices are high, but my expertise is also valuable.”

>Full package – 5000 influence

>Scientific expertise – 1500 influence

>Engineering expertise – 1300 influence

>Strategic command – 1000 influence

>Tactical command – 800 influence

>Strategic and tactical advice – 500 influence

Current influence 27

“Now of course, I realize that not all can afford my prices. I also take rare materials, such as those involved in the making of neutronium reactors, armour alloys for exo-suits and the like.

I too am someone of great curiosity. I will also take payment in advance technology that I am unfamiliar with.

If you have any of these, we can negotiate how much they are worth to me.

The contract signed will last one standard definition of a campaign. (QM NOTE: You anons will have to rebuy the services every new regional map. I will be nice and clarify that if you buy his service, he will serve you in both this and the following regional map.)

So, which package are you interested in ?”

>”You know what, I think I will just hand you over to the Countess.”

>”I do have something of interest for you.” (What ?)

>”Rot here for all I care, I am leaving.”

>(Write in)
>>
>>5156846
>”You know what, I think I will just hand you over to the Countess.”

There was that armour plating we didn't get he might be interested in, but that ain't ours and even if it were, it'd be attached to a ship.
>>
>>5156846
>”I do have something of interest for you.”
Is there any alloy or material leftover from that cloaked ship? Or even loot from the promethean reactor. That might be sufficient payment for him. If not, inform him of our findings there and the intact reactor we recovered, and hand him off to the Countess.
>>
>>5156855

You anons did acquire plantings from the stealth ship. As part of your trophy claim, you do have the files on the discovered reactor.
>>
>>5156846
>>”You know what, I think I will just hand you over to the Countess.”
>>
>>5156846
>>”I do have something of interest for you.”
Reactor specs, on the condition he helps us reverse engineer it.
>>
>>5156857
Just make sure we do not lose filed on reactor but give copy to him
>>
>>5156890
+1, some kind of monitored R&D deal would be nice
>>
>>5156890
+1
>>
>>5156890
+1 and the alloys of the stealth ship, we really need to hire that guy, we are fucked if he works for our enemies
>>
>>5157430
technically we want him to work for us so we get to claim his doing as our own infront of the countess.

if we cant pay him we send him to the countess which still gets us some good-boy points but just not as much
>>
“Actually, I do have something for you.” You state before going silent, instead switching off any external communication before contacting your XO.

“Get me the files on the reactor we pulled out from the Emarians, full specs, make sure that it is a copy only.” You switch off the comms.

Moments later, the files have been delivered, you dare not risk remote transfer.

Iron gladly takes the files offered to him.

“Hmmmm…yes. The Helios project. I recognize the construction and parts here. These files however look rough, unfinished. Am I safe to assume that these are not original Prometheus files ?”

“You are, we pulled those out from a facility, and you mentioned Helios ?”

“Yes, back when I was contracted, I had come over this project, it seems like they’ve managed to make a working construct sooner than I expected, the radiation is unfortunate however.

Yes, yes. Do you have more to offer ?”

You smile, that is what you were waiting for. Snapping your fingers, you signal marines who had originally brought over the data to carry in the plating of the stealth ship.

Iron rises to his feet and carefully opens the container, seemingly unconcerned about the radiation emitting from it.

“Fascinating, this does not appear to be a metal alloy, but rather a combination of both mineral and biological parts, it has the ability for stealth, but I can tell that it is…brittle, comparatively.

Any vessel made from this material will be easy to crush in an open engagement.”

“Is it Prometheus make ?”

“No, I can tell you that much. The techniques involved in making such material are far too loud, so to say. Prometheus wouldn’t risk construction, though creation, perhaps. Without further looking into it, I can offer no more.”

“So, what do you think…

>…you figure out how everything here works, and you get to keep that knowledge.” (Research + engineering)

>…will this be enough to buy your services ?” (Worth 2000 influence for package purchase)

>(Write in)
>>
>>5158124
>…you figure out how everything here works, and you get to keep that knowledge.” (Research + engineering)

If by what you mean by this is we get his assistance understand these materials and the reactor and in return we'll give him a copy of the specs and the plate then sure. If you mean he just gets to keep this for free then nevermind.

We don't need his help winning battles, at least not yet.
>>
>>5158124
>…you figure out how everything here works, and you get to keep that knowledge.” (Research + engineering)

I assume the 2000 Influence is just for his package purchase, and cannot be exchanged for buying ships, correct? If so, then this is clearly the superior deal, especially since we get 2800 worth of influence for just 2000.

Also, when you mean regional map, what does that encompass specifically?
>>
>>5158124
>You get unrestricted access to this material on the condition you work for us AND you accompany us on our investigation into the origin of this cloaked ship with the promise of access to whatever further material or data we find.

As an aside to my fellow anons, I am slightly worried that there seems to be a third player running around. I had assumed that Prometheus was working in the background for their own sinister purposes and we'd have to deal with them eventually, but this extra group in an unwelcome spanner in the works. I don't like mysteries like that. Plus they killed Baron, we're obligated to kick their shit in otherwise it will remain a stain on our honour.
>>
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>>5158130

>If by what you mean by this is we get his assistance understand these materials and the reactor and in return we'll give him a copy of the specs and the plate then sure.

Yes.

>>5158138

>I assume the 2000 Influence is just for his package purchase, and cannot be exchanged for buying ships, correct?

Yes.

>Also, when you mean regional map, what does that encompass specifically?

Pic related. Once you finish all of the story arcs I had planned, you move onto the next region.
>>
>>5158124
>…you figure out how everything here works, and you get to keep that knowledge.” (Research + engineering)
>>
>>5158165
Alrighty. Can we buy the other packages later, when we gain the requisite influence for them? And will the other package deals follow us to the next regional map if we buy them after we gain the influence necessary?
>>
>>5158173

>Alrighty. Can we buy the other packages later, when we gain the requisite influence for them?

Yes.

>And will the other package deals follow us to the next regional map if we buy them after we gain the influence necessary?

Yes.

They will follow you for this and the next region.
>>
>>5158124
>…you figure out how everything here works, and you get to keep that knowledge.” (Research + engineering)
This is gonna be way more influence in the long run.
>>
>>5158124
>>…you figure out how everything here works, and you get to keep that knowledge.” (Research + engineering)
>>
>>5158124
>…you figure out how everything here works, and you get to keep that knowledge.” (Research + engineering)
>>
“…you figure out how everything here works, and you get to keep that knowledge.”

“Very well, your terms are acceptable. Now, shall we depart before this ship collapses all around us ? It would be very inconvenient if that were to happen.”

With the last statement of sass from Iron, you do indeed decide that times has come to jump ship.

Arriving at Horus, Iron, whom for once had been entirely silent on the journey back, once more speaks up.

“I shall begin investigating the plans and material as soon as possible. I require my own room, large one at that, make sure that it is guarded at all times. Ah, I also need some equipment, I realize that it is impossible to get at the moment, but I do require it.”

“Talk to Warrant Officer Gavril Radu, he will set you up.” With ease, you throw Gavril under the bus. You have neither the time, nor the desire to deal with the man anymore.

Arriving back at the bridge, you are greeted by Tetreault.

“Captain, enemy forces are retreating as we speak.”

“Good, how’s the rest of the battle going ?”

“The battle around Shu VI has ended with the enemy forces annihilated or routed. Shu II had put up a fierce resistance, but their orbital and mobile elements had been annihilated. The Countess is currently preparing to carry out orbital bombardment upon the world. She does not intend to take it intact.”

As fierce as ever.

“Rally our elements, we are in no position to keep fighting.” You state to your XO. “Helmsman, orientate us towards the main fleet.” You give out the order, before departing to the captain’s quarters. You need to get of the power armour.

You beaten, bruised, bloodied, and damaged force begins to limp its way onwards.

Arriving at Shu II, you are greeted by the sight of a graveyard. The surroundings of the world are covered by a layer of debris, the former fortifications. Hulked ships float lifelessly all around, some caught by the gravity of nearby celestial bodies, others making their endless journey into the galaxy, cold and unmarked graves, waiting to be discovered in decades, perhaps centuries from now, and to puzzle whatever civilization that locates them.

“Sir, incoming comms from Knight-Captain Athemar Todoroff.” Calls out the comms officer.

“Put him through.” You grimace, having no doubt that you coming back half-crippled is going to land you in some hot water.

“Knight-Captain Proenza. I see that your operations went just about as well as usually.”

Looks like ‘ol Todoroff is just as tired as me.

“Same old, same old, you know how I am, high risk, high casualties, but also high rewards.”

You can see a flicker of curiosity in his eyes.

“There are some matters that need to be reported to the Countess, personally.”
>>
>>5159506

“The Countess is currently busy organizing the fleet for orbital bombardment, she desires to see the world burn. She has no time for reports of individual detachment captains at the moment, you can relay the information to me and I will get it to her as sooner than you can.”

>”Fine, I am coming over, still don’t want to talk about it through vulnerable comms.”

>”It’s alright, I can wait.”

>”It’s alright, I can wait.” See if you can’t contact the Countess.
>>
>>5159507
>”It’s alright, I can wait.” See if you can’t contact the Countess.
>"My friend trust me, this is something above both our paygrades."
>>
>>5159507
>”It’s alright, I can wait.” See if you can’t contact the Countess.

We need to deliver this personally, no ands, ifs, or buts about it.
>>
>>5159507
>”It’s alright, I can wait.” See if you can’t contact the Countess.

I think the fuckers ambitious, you ask me. Then, so is Proenza
>>
>>5159514
+1
>>
>>5159507
>>”It’s alright, I can wait.”
also, if iron is so willing to trade ship reactor parts, id say it might be a good idea to begin vulturing some repair parts and tradeable parts from the ships in the sorrounding area. and to motivate the crew into helping along, they get a 2% pay of whatever they salavage's price. we might also be able to get some databanks which weren't totally destroyed in the battle.
>>
>>5159507
>”It’s alright, I can wait.” See if you can’t contact the Countess.
>>
>>5159514
Support.

Secret cloaked ship and secret genius scientist/warrior? No way are we letting this one slide.
>>
”It’s alright, I can wait.” You state, stone-faced.

“Very well, return to formation, contact me if you require anything.” Says Todoroff before cutting off.

“Comms, signal Indomitus, request for permission to come aboard. Tetreault, do as Todoroff says, move the fleet in formation. I am going to meet with our VIP, inform me as soon as you can about that request.”

Just made noble and already scheming.

Coming down, you quickly find where Iron is located, you could have just called Gavril, but you would’ve had to listen to his whining.

Two menials with sidearms are guarding the door as you make your way in.

I hope those guys Baron manged to pull in will be there by the time we get back to friendly territory. You muse, other than a dozen or so left behind to guard local leadership, you are completely out of marines.

Inside you find Iron busying himself setting up his work environment, terrified menials are running about, lugging crates here and there.

“Ah, Captain, you arrived much sooner than I expected. Unfortunately, I will have to disappoint you. I, despite my genius, have been unable to make any progress towards our mutually beneficial projects.”

“Enough with the smartassery. I came here to inform you that you may be meeting with the Countess soon. I want you to be on your best behaviour and answer any questions she asks.”

“If they are within reason, I will make sure to do so.”

Whatever, the Countess is one of the few people you know that you think might be able to make someone like him open up.

A few moments later, you comm goes off and the comms officer’s voice can be heard. “Captain, you’ve been granted clearance to land onto Indomitus.”

“Understood.” You cut the comm. “Time to go, Iron, don’t wanna get rusty, now do you.”

“Of course not, please, lead the way.”

Walking side by side, out of your power armour you can now fully take in and observe the sheer size of the man. The bastard stands nearly 3 meters tall, using the Margrave as comparison, Iron is taller still, not by much though, if that is any consolation.

Approaching Indomitus, you start thinking for a moment on how you should approach the conversation, your losses were bad, but you hope that the results will speak for themselves. Still, you never know, the Countess was not there and you are the first to report.

>Talk yourself up. You are a great hero of course.

>Simply state it as it was, no matter the censure.

>Play it down. Sure, it might not make you that impressive sounding, but maybe she will overlook the casualties.

>(Write in)

Then, the question of Iron. He has to be there to prove your claims, but with his attitude, he may very well sabotage the situation.

>Bring him along from the very start of the meeting.

>Bring him along from around the midpoint, after the boasting of course.

>Bring him along around the end. As simply means of proving your claims.
>>
>>5159663
>Simply state it as it was, no matter the censure.
We've got a whole mixed bag of stuff to brag about and to sweep under the rug.

I honestly dont know how to introduce Iron to the countess properly, on one hand id like to show him off as a resourceful and potentially tide-turning asset. On the other hand hes contracted by us right now for an uncertain amount of time, and something tells me we cant "gurantee" him wanting to stay around and get on the countesses payroll for a while.

so i guess we bring him up to show our "expenses" did result in noteable gain

>Bring him along from around the midpoint, after the boasting of course.
>>
>>5159507
>>”It’s alright, I can wait.” See if you can’t contact the Countess.
>>
>>5159663
>>Simply state it as it was, no matter the censure

>Bring him along from around the midpoint, after the boasting of course.
>>
>>5159663
>Simply state it as it was, no matter the censure.
>Bring him along from around the midpoint, after the boasting of course.
>>
>>5159663
>Simply state it as it was, no matter the censure.
>Bring him along from around the midpoint, after the boasting of course.
>>
>>5159663
>Talk yourself up. You are a great hero of course.
We may have taken a lot of casualties, but our track record is astounding. First engagement we had a K:D ratio that is the envy of our peers. Then we took an entire planet and it's naval detachment without a single casualty. We found some covert operation going on with a stealth ship, probably what was given the Countess her headache with so many casualties. Finally, in clearing up the rear we achieved a kill count far superior to our casualties, killed the son of their dear leader, and brought her this boon. While we could've done better, it wouldn't have been by much.
>Bring him along around the end. As simply means of proving your claims.
>>
>>5159663
>Simply state it as it was, no matter the censure.

>Bring him along from around the midpoint, after the boasting of course.
>>
>>5159663
>Simply state it as it was, no matter the censure.
>Bring him along from the very start of the meeting.

Countess will figure out what happened no matter
what so tell her straight up like we always do.
>>
>>5159663
>Simply state it as it was, no matter the censure.
>Bring him along from the very start of the meeting.
>>
>>5159663
>Talk yourself up. You are a great hero of course.
>Bring him along from the very start of the meeting.
>>
>>5159663
>>Simply state it as it was, no matter the censure.

Simple case of being a blowhard probably not working on the Countess and also the whole thing with Baron and the marines leaves too sour a taste to bring out the brag game.

>Bring him along around the end. As simply means of proving your claims.
>>
state it as it was 7

Boast 2

Midpoint 4

End 2

Start 3

Stating as it was and bringing Iron in at the midpoint
>>
>>5160524
Make sure Todoroff gets credit where it's due, I'd hate to backstab him like this over noble politics, but he did outright reject us when it came to leading this mission, which I haven't forgotten.
>>
>>5160544
Thats gonna be short list
>>
>>5160564
Hey, it's better than ignoring or slandering him.
>>
>>5160544
I was going to suggest we hand over half the Squadron we captured at Shu IX(?) to Todoroff due to him taking basically his whole detachment in casualties when he sent his Guardian to aid our push in the first engagement. Todoroff is a bro and a champion, we should treat him as an ally and build a good report with him. We took a lot of casualties last engagement, but I still think we should repay Todoroff that way.
>>
>>5160576
>I was going to suggest we hand over half the Squadron we captured at Shu IX(?) to Todoroff

Da fuq? Todoroff ain't that much of a bro, and we need those ships to replace our own goddamn losses. I'm not gonna support giving up prizes rightfully won by our own merit, we're better off helping him advance through the ranks after we gain the Countess's goodwill.
>>
>>5160576
Captain steadys biggest deed was realizing that we can do independent command just fine, that ain't worth a planet
>>
Or fleet
>>
>>5160583
>Todoroff ain't that much of a bro
Todoroff took all the casualties we would've taken pushing the enemy missile cruisers by giving us the cover of his Guardian during the push. He gave us his trust and lost his whole detachment because of it. That is enough to be worthy of respect, especially since it was in support of an action that goes against his own nature and doctrine. Because of that trust we scrapped that whole fleet, but Todoroff took the brunt of the casualties. Giving him a few replacement ships we took for free is repaying his trust in us and showing proper respect to a fellow Commander.

But sure, be an unreasonable greed-nigger instead.
>>
>>5160593
Nigga, helping him advance though the ranks would be the more bro move than giving him a couple of ships we've secured with our success and laughing at how insulting it is to be given handouts by a man that just skipped over you in rank. Like shit nigga, what would you rather have, ships pawned off to you by the guy that politically outplayed you or to advance though the ranks with him?
>>
>>5160593
He didnt lose a single ship to enemy missile cruisers, only damage to flagship
>>
With shuttle’s landing gear impacting the metal underneath it, you rise from your seat and move down into the hangar. An ensign comes to greet you.

“Sir.” The man salutes you. “The Commodore is awaiting you in her quarters. I shall guide you there.”

The man seems quite composed, but even as he is leading you, he casts glances at Iron, no surprise there, the man stands out like a sore thumb.

Moving down the maze or corridors, you are finally escorted to the captain’s quarters, there stands half-a-dozen marines, vigilantly guarding their liege. Their rifles rise slightly at your approach, the men are prepared to shot you and your “friend” at a moments notice.

“Wait here. I will call you in when I need you.” You say to Iron as you step up.

“I suppose I can wait here, make new friends, exchange thrilling stories, and debate great philosophy.” Oozing sarcasm, he replies.

As you are allowed inside of the room, you take it the elegant decorations. The Countess seems to favour reds and whites, probably because those are the colours of her house. Despite the strong colours, the room itself is dimply lit, the only light originating from her desk. Her sharp gaze greets you as she looks up from her screen.

“Knight-Captain Proenza, this better be worth my time. I had to put away important work for this.”

“It will be my lady; I bring important news from the rear.”

You begin retelling everything as it happened after you detached yourself from the battlegroup. From you alone forcing Shu VIII to surrender without a fight, to describing your hunt for the mysterious signal, followed by its destruction, and finally the last bloody engagement, which resulted in you crushing vast hostile elements that would have plagued the system and its surroundings for years to come.

Through your entire description, the Countess remained unmoving and ger had not shifted once. At the end.

“Then, after the marines contacted us, informing me that the potential VIP is willing to negotiate, I think it is best for you to hear from him.”

Clicking her comm, she responds in monotone. “Bring him in.”

In a couple of seconds, Iron’s heavy footsteps slam onto the decorated floor. Then, with surprising grace and precision, Iron carries out a noble greeting.

“Countess Lauritzen, may honour be on your house and the Emperor’s grace be bestowed upon you.”

Oh no, I better make sure that Tetreault never sees this, otherwise my etiquette classes will never end.

“So you are the VIP ?”

“My name is Iron, and yes, and no. I was there with the fifth born of the dear leader. The defenders fought to ensure his safety.”

“So you shot your former employer when the situation turned sour ?”
>>
>>5160605

“Naturally, one cannot do much or achieve anything of worth if they are dead. And whatever the Captain here would have said to you, his marines were dying, their boarding attempt would have been repulsed if it were not for me.”

“Then why did you do it ?”

“The contract had been broken. What was promised to me could not be carried out. The league is dead, the terms are now null and void.”

“What was the contract ?”

“I pride myself in my confidentiality.”

“What if I order you killed ?”

“I would die, but so would you.”

You can feel the tension in the air.

Fuck ! I knew this would happen.

“My liege, I already formed a contact with him. Iron had proclaimed himself skilled not only in fighting, but also research and engineering. I think with his expertise, the reactor we recovered will be put to good use and reproduced faster than expected, he might also be able to figure out who made and who controlled the stealth ship.”

You speak faster than you had ever spoken before, if any of the two were to die, you’d be in deep shit.

“I want full progress report.” She says turning to you, before turning to Iron. “You, get out of my sight.”

“With great pleasure and swiftness, Countess.” With a mock bow, Iron departs.

“Be prepared to kill the…thing, if he is unable to live up to his claims. I also want your comm and sensor logs, hidden ships observing us makes me uneasy. They could have been watching us for months if not years now.” You watch as she falls into deep thought.

In the complete silence, you finally realize something horrifying, the Countess has and old clock, that ticks. The damned thing is slowly driving you insane, as you dare not move, the Countess looks pissed.

Coming back to reality, she simply states. “You are dismissed. I also give you the permission to quit the campaign early and return to port, if you desire so.”

>”Thank you Countess, I will take up that offer. I do need time to rebuild.”

>”Thank you Countess, however I will have to decline the offer. I am not one to run from a fight.”

>”Before I depart, may I inquire with you ?” (Write in)

>(Write in)
>>
>>5160608

>”Thank you Countess, however I will have to decline the offer. I am not one to run from a fight.”

we can repair on the front yes? also are we able to sign on new marines from here or do we need to be back home for that?

oh can we also get a rough map of our house and the surrounding houses/borders?
>>
>>5160608
>>”Thank you Countess, I will take up that offer. I do need time to rebuild.”
Well our two cruiser are full of holes
>>
>>5160608
>”Thank you Countess, however I will have to decline the offer. I am not one to run from a fight.”

Well, best not piss her off further.
>>
>>5160608
Also, whatever happened to Iron's
>Every single static fortification, shipyard, space station, refuelling and mining station. I can disable all of them within the league. Free of charge, anything more will cost you extra.
offer, in exchange for his life? No offense, but I did think that would improve her mood a little bit initially.
>>
>>5160608
>>”Thank you Countess, however I will have to decline the offer. I am not one to run from a fight.”
>>
>>5160630
Yeah we are waiting
>>
>>5160630
actually yes what happend to that, feel like that should have netted us some serious "good-boy" points? definitley more than being put on stand-by and dismissed lol
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>>5160617

>we can repair on the front yes?

You can, but the damage you suffered would result in you staying there for a while.

>also are we able to sign on new marines from here or do we need to be back home for that?

The only way to get marines here is to get someone else's. You do have 50 in route, of the level of your previous marines. There are also ten down at Shu VIII

>oh can we also get a rough map of our house and the surrounding houses/borders?

Maybe, if it become relevant I will make a map.

>>5160630

Fair point anon. It completely slipped my mind, I will address it in a moment.
>>
>>5160608

“Before that, I should mention one more thing, Countess. Iron, in exchange for his life, had promised to disable any and all spacial installations within the league.”

There’s a reaction to that.

“Oh ? How ?”

“I do not know, but he said he can do it.”

“He better, or I will have him beheaded.”
>>
>”Thank you Countess, I will take up that offer. I do need time to rebuild.”

dead ships do no work. we should have them repaired and get some vacation time for our crew, since the flesh can only last for so long as well. they would probably rebel if we kept on throwing them into the meat grinder.
>>
>>5160608
>”Thank you Countess, I will take up that offer. I do need time to rebuild.”
We sadly live up to our bloody reputation.
>>
>>5160608
Would we earn any influence if we choose to return to port? If so, how much?
>>
>>5160875

You would get your influence pay out, yes. How much you do not and shall not be revealed until you get home.
>>
>>5160608
>”Thank you Countess, I will take up that offer. I do need time to rebuild.”

>>5160651
Regardless of forgetting that one thing, Iron threatening her and the news of stealth ships is probably preoccupying her. She's not gonna rush to indicate her pleasure at our results when she has bigger strategic considerations to worry about, nor are we a dog that requires being reassured after every good thing we do. I'm sure we've done well in her eyes, and she knows what to expect from us when it comes to our high risk, high reward antics, so there shouldn't be much fuss over our losses.
>>
>>5160608
>>”Thank you Countess, however I will have to decline the offer. I am not one to run from a fight.”
>>
>>5160608
>”Thank you Countess, I will take up that offer. I do need time to rebuild.”
we are way too wounded to be of use in this fight anymore but we have accomplished more than enough. We took down a fortress world without any shots and a much more lightly defended one too. We took down a stealth ship and multiple detachments and captured a VIP who could not only give us massive technological progress but can also (presumably) shut down the rest of the league's defences. We, once again are the MVP.
>>5160651
She is a tsundere its ok.
>>5160916
QM, since we alone secured Shu VIII, does that mean we are the owners of it due to the allowance of trophies from the countess or what's happening on that front?
>>
>>5160608
> ”Thank you Countess, I will take up that offer. I do need time to rebuild.”

I think pushing on at this point would be massive hubris. We're shot to shit, again. Madman strata work better with a fresh force.
>>
>>5160608
>”Thank you Countess, I will take up that offer. I do need time to rebuild.”
>>
>>5161007

>QM, since we alone secured Shu VIII, does that mean we are the owners of it due to the allowance of trophies from the countess or what's happening on that front?

If she annexes the territory, presuming she got permission from the Duke, who got it from the Emperor, you will be entitled to it as your fief.

If not, any and all loot secured will be entitled to you first and foremost. Not counting the Countesses claim, since welcome to noble politicking.
>>
>>5160608
>”Thank you Countess, however I will have to decline the offer. I am not one to run from a fight.”
Rest option is a trap. We must redeem our honor.
>>
Fight on 5

Rest 7

Writing.
>>
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”Thank you Countess, I will take up that offer. I do need time to rebuild.”

“Very well, before you depart, ensure you find out how it intends to disable the spacial defences.”

It ? The Countess sure is annoyed.

“I will endeavour to do so.” You state before departing.

Finally having jumped out of the tiger’s den, you find a moment to relax, only to see a bunch of pissed of marines staring down Iron, they must’ve heard about what happened inside. No surprise there, allowing someone to meet their liege alone carries serious risks.

“Ah, good. I was beginning to feel unwelcome here, despite the fine environment.”

“Enough with the snide remarks, let us go.” You say ignoring any reply that might come your way.

After taking a few steps from prying eyes, you once more begin to speak. “How will you disable the defences ?”

“Oh, everything is already in place. Once your forces arrive to one of the Raisatan held systems, simply begin transmitting at these frequencies at these intervals.” He remarks casually, before your comm pings you. Looking it over, you see that a message from Iron had reached you.

“How did you-“

“Simple, really. If something is connected, it can be traced, if it can be traced, it can be broken through. Oh, I suppose I should remark that my reports shall be written on paper.”

“Paper ? What are we, primitive barbarians.”

“Ahhh, the greatest writings of man were made upon paper, velvet, hide, clay, bamboo, and papyrus they stores our knowledge, glory, and secrets. Never underestimate things that you may consider primitive. All things had to come from somewhere.”

“Sure, next thing you will tell me is that we need to use thousand-year-old guns.”

“Perhaps, you never know what the future holds, it does note necessarily means advancement and progress.”

With endless philosophy of a three-year-old, Iron continues to bore you until you can return to your ship.

Sitting, exhausted, on to your captain’s chair, you call out to Tetreault. “Prepare the fleet, we are returning to the rear for some R&R, but before that, swing by Shu VIII to pick up our marines. And also see if we can’t requisition some menials to steer back the ship we captured from there.”

“Understood, Captain.”

With your XO and capable subordinates carrying out your orders, you quickly grow bored and return to the captain’s quarters. For the following days, you will spend most of your time there, only returning to the bridge to check up on the situation.

------------------------------
(POV shift: You are Countess-Commodore Philicia Lauritzen. You have a battle to win.)

A Timur is torn apart. An unfortunate loss, but that’s the cost of duelling with planetary defences. By now, only main domed settlement remains. With one final volley via Indomitus, you finally crack the last of the defences.

With this, whatever survivors are still down there are doomed to a slow death.
>>
>>5161860

“All forces withdraw. Reorganize and prepare to move from system.” You call out. The matter with your knight had put you in a foul mood, but if his claim is correct, you will have to reward him appropriately.

Days after, you are facing down a defensive fleet stubbornly clinging to their static defences, hoping that the added firepower will prolong their existence.

“Comms, transmit the frequency.”

Time to see if I will have to crucify someone.

You watch with fascination as the lights emitting from the stations begin to flicker and shutdown. Their spin goes out of balance and they become nothing more than harmless decorations.

With a vicious smile spreading across your face, you give a simple order. “Kill.”

------------------------------
(End of POV shift.)

Finally, for the first time in a long time, your vessel slides into port within the Talax system. Your home far away from home.

You quickly busy yourself with reorganizing your forces.

First thing first. You head down to engineering, where you proceed to be screamed at by an annoyed engineering crew, who grudgingly state that you might as well buy new ships with the damage done to them. Unfortunately for them, they have no choice but to begin carrying out repairs upon your force.

Next on, you start the process of retrofitting and bringing up to standard your trophies. You could naturally sell them off, but you may also decide to keep them:

x2 Raider-class Destroyer
x1 Guardian-class Destroyer
x1 Bullseye-class Destroyer
x4 Wolf-class Frigate
x2 Defender-class Frigate


Then there’s the matter of Iron. You can claim all his accomplishments, but you now have to provide him with the equipment requested. And is it a list.

He demands equipment worth 300 influence.

Afterwards, you once more go to meet up with the head engineer, it’s been a while since you last met him, so it is likely that he has some goodies to offer.

“Hey two-tooth. Your bald shiny head attract anything good ?”

“Heh, you’d be surprised. There’s been talk about introducing a new line of ships, being on the frontier and all that, the ducal admiralty wants some tests. I could play with the rankings a bit to put you atop.”

“Could I keep the ships ?”

“From what I can tell, they just want the data to iron out the kinks.”

“How much ?”

Two-tooth dictates a price totalling 200 influence.

Once you dealt with these pressing matters. You are informed of the fact that a contingent of 50 marines had finally arrived. Unfortunately, none of them are commanding officers, as it was expected for them to insert into your pre-existing command structure.

You will have to appoint a leader, or let one rise to the occasion naturally. (Will be addressed after purchasing)
>>
>>5161863

GM NOTE: Your pay will come in time as it is gathered and the force returns, but for the sake of sanity:

Securing Shu IX 10d20+50

Individual securing of Shu VIII 20d20+150

Discovery of the stealth ship and Iron 25d20+300

Best of 3, please roll each individually, due to the limit of 25 rolls maximum.


Will post buy menu when you will have the influence total.
>>
Rolled 1, 3, 11, 14, 1, 13, 1, 11, 15, 19 + 50 = 139 (10d20 + 50)

>>5161864
Oh lord, infinite dice rolling. First roll for Securing Shu IX.
>>
Rolled 17, 4, 14, 4, 11, 5, 8, 7, 1, 11, 2, 20, 13, 6, 18, 18, 13, 8, 10, 14 + 150 = 354 (20d20 + 150)

>>5161864
No one else seems to be rolling. First roll for Individually Securing Shu VIII.
>>
Rolled 12, 20, 17, 8, 19, 9, 11, 12, 10, 11, 2, 14, 20, 13, 7, 3, 2, 13, 16, 18, 9, 15, 9, 5, 5 + 300 = 580 (25d20 + 300)

>>5161864
And first roll for Discovery of the stealth ship and Iron.
>>
Rolled 1, 9, 13, 11, 11, 9, 12, 9, 20, 18 + 50 = 163 (10d20 + 50)

>>5161864
>>
Rolled 5, 17, 18, 20, 20, 19, 12, 18, 1, 14, 9, 16, 12, 15, 14, 16, 7, 5, 20, 1 + 150 = 409 (20d20 + 150)

>>5161864
>>
Rolled 18, 10, 13, 17, 6, 2, 5, 7, 13, 7, 17, 8, 4, 15, 6, 16, 17, 10, 2, 3, 17, 6, 5, 17, 2 + 300 = 543 (25d20 + 300)

>>5161864
>>
>>5161864
Discovery of the stealth ship and Iron
>>
Rolled 14, 18, 15, 12, 3, 18, 16, 4, 7, 17 + 50 = 174 (10d20 + 50)

>>5161864
>>
Rolled 10, 1, 2, 4, 17, 7, 8, 9, 17, 13, 1, 8, 9, 7, 1, 4, 4, 5, 7, 6 + 150 = 290 (20d20 + 150)

>>5161864
>>
Rolled 10, 13, 11, 2, 8, 19, 10, 11, 15, 1, 13, 17, 19, 17, 11, 15, 6, 1, 18, 17, 4, 7, 11, 15, 3 + 300 = 574 (25d20 + 300)

>>5161864
>>
So 174 + 409 + 580 = 1163 out of a maximum 1600 influence we could've gotten. 72% of the maximum, not terrible at all.
>>
>>5161932
Much more than we had last mission.
So I assume buying Irons equipment is a must?
Plus with the captured ships we pretty much got a net gain I believe.
>>
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questions, QM

first: what would be the cost to bring the trophies we brought back home up to normal standards? or is it paid for already before we factored in the rolls?

second: can we use some of the influence to help improve the space infrastructure on the planet we helped secure which is now ours? i was thinking maybe something like repair-yards and possible fuel depot's if it isn't too influence costly.
(this could include using the debris of the ships we killed to construct with, hulls for repair yards/construction yards, and the ships on-board fuel storages/tanks from destroyed fuel vessels of reisat fuel escorts)

thirdly: could we possibly know stuff about what the planet we captured had of possible things which we could either use it for, or improve on it? i wanna do stuff like maybe making large-scale farming for possible trade between the other surrounding planets which have been bombed to shit. maybe even stuff like creating a orbital trade station to increase the commercial worth of our new fief.
>>
BUY MENU:

FRIGATES:

>A striker-class frigate. (Cost 25 influence)

>A wolf-class frigate. (Cost 20 influence)

>A defender-class frigate. (Cost 15 influence)

DESTROYERS:

>Bullseye-class destroyer. (Cost 90 influence)

>Raider-class destroyer. (Cost 80 influence)

>Guardian-class destroyer. (Cost 70 influence)

LIGHT CRUISERS:

>Hou Yi-class light cruiser (Cost 300 influence) (In dock – 2)

>Timur-class light cruiser (Cost 280 influence) (In dock – 1)

>Rudra-class light cruiser (Cost 260 influence) (In dock – 1)

>Vigilance-class light cruiser (Cost 200 influence) (In dock – 0)

FUEL TANKERS:

>Short range tankers, extends jump range by 1. (Cost 5 influence)

>Medium range tankers, extends jump range by 3. (Cost 13 influence)

>Long range tankers, extends jump range by 6. (Cost 27 influence)

Current influence: 1190

(Selling ships gives back half the influence cost, rounding down. If the ships have left port, refunding gives back only half influence, otherwise, it is a full refund.)
>>
>>5162076

>what would be the cost to bring the trophies we brought back home up to normal standards? or is it paid for already before we factored in the rolls?

They will be retrofitted for free.

>Second and Third

Sorry to disappoint you anon. But you would only get the land if the Countess would grant it to you. In order for her to even annex it into the Unbroken Empire, she would have to have the permission of the Duke, and the Duke would need permission of the Emperor.

Most likely a puppet state will be set up, just like all of the other systems under ducal influence.

Instead, more or less anything of great value from that lifeless rock had been stripped and given over to you. Keep in mind that it only had one settlement with only around 10k people.
>>
>>5162202
Buy Iron's equipment and accept Two-tooth's deal. That puts us at 690 influence.

Buy
1 Timur-Class (this will be our new flagship)
1 Bullseye-class
3 Raider-class
4 Wolf-Class
>>
>>5162202
> 2 Long range tankers, extends jump range by 6. (Cost 27 influence)
more supplies
>Timur-class light cruiser (Cost 280 influence) (In dock – 1)
>Rudra-class light cruiser (Cost 260 influence) (In dock – 1)
We need some big boys.
> 10 defender-class frigate. (Cost 15 influence)
We need a lot more screen
>11 wolf-class frigate. (Cost 20 influence)
>9 striker-class frigate. (Cost 25 influence)
and more swarm in total.
1189 influence in total.
>>
>>5162202
1190
>Iron's equipment worth 300 influence
>Two-tooth dictates a price totalling 200 influence
690 left
>Hou Yi-class light cruiser (Cost 300 influence)
390 left
>2xRaider-class destroyer. (Cost 80 influence) 160
230 left
>6 wolf-class frigate. (Cost 20 influence) 120
>6 defender-class frigate. (Cost 15 influence) 90
0

That should be a balanced force.
>>
>>5162202
1x Irons equipment 890
1x Two-tooth 690
6x Wolf-class Frigate 570
1x Bullseye-class destroyer. 480
1x Raider-class destroyer. 400
1x Rudra-class light cruiser 140

I think we should keep every ship that we capture and leave something like 140 inf for the possible marine price and for Gavril retirement unless he not leaving jet.
>>
>>5162298
There shouldn't be a Marine Price if the QM didn't tell us about it beforehand, because I would expect him to know that having everything you could buy in one update vastly simplifies the buy portion for us instead of focusing three updates one it.
>>
>>5162297
I liked this list, honestly considering we were the most balanced force at the beginning of this campaign I would say balance is the right way to go.
>>
>>5162202
>Timur-class light cruiser - 280
Give us some more punch, the Timur can take a good pounding and deliver as much back, holding the line while the Vigilances push on the flank. The Rudra would be good to have with it's squadrons but it's a little expensive right now if we want the other deals, and the Missile cruisers can't follow us through enemy lines because of the lack of speed and weapons.

>Raider-class destroyer. (Cost 80 influence) x2
>Guardian-class destroyer. (Cost 70 influence)
>230
Another Guardian to expand our missile defence, two raiders to buff up our flanks.

>A wolf-class frigate. (Cost 20 influence) x4
>A defender-class frigate. (Cost 15 influence) x2
>110
Another same size group as the one we aqcuired to shore up our flanks

>Two-Tooth's Deal: 200
>Iron's Demand: 300

Total: 1120
>>
>>5162363
Support
>>
>>5162305
Leadership might have a price
>>
>>5162291
+1 I want a Timur as our flagship for sure. See if the experimental armor is still around too.
>>
>>5162297
+1
>>
>>5162202
Supporting >>5162363
>>
Unspent influence is wasted influence. The only reason not to spend all our influence now is if we're saving up for something large, which we're not. The battles we fight are so intense that we can't refuse to buy ships we can afford to buy.
>>
>>5163128
Actually, paying Iron for his expertise isn't that bad of an idea, we just have to make sure our fleet replenishes their losses first.
>>
>>5163285
The two are not mutually exclusive, as I have proven in my vote.
>>5162291
>>
The ships we're getting from two-tooth are likely a pair of destroyers or a group of frigates, so with that in mind I'll be picking >>5162363

Though I really think we should stick with the Vigilance as our flagship, quick and decisive is our style and the Timur won't fit that without some serious upgrades.
>>
Alright, this one >>5162363 edges out. Writing and drawfagging. Sorry this is taking a while.
>>
>>5165117
Do you anons intend to use the remaining 70 influence for anything at all (such as two wolves and two defenders) or are you just going to "save" it for nothing?
>>
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You feel pride swell in your chest as you are looking at all of your docked ships. A proper combat fleet.

A mighty flotilla under your command. But before you can truly rest on your laurels, your comm pings and you are told to report to the naval command office.

Quickly arriving there, you are greeted by the sight of a person in a pitch-black uniform, you cannot tell anything about the person or their appearance. Not to mention the fact that he has a reflective helmet.

“Knight-Captain Proenza.” Comes out a distorted voice. “I am here on behalf of the Duke Roy and our research and development division. You have been granted the right to command the newest line of frigates. I shall be accompanying you for the duration of the experimental period.

The formation shall be under my command. That is all.”

From start to finish you were not even allowed to open up your mouth. The intelligence types are always like this. The creepy bastards.

You have no doubt that you will be conversing with him whether you like it or not. Maybe you can throw him at Iron ? Let the two sides mentally beat each other for all you care.

For now, you need to reorganize your forces:

Current ship captains under Captain Fergus Proenza:

Lord-Commander Marc Ahsing (Timid, skilled, loyal) (In command of Vigilance-class “Ever vigilant”)

Lord-Commander Giacomo Kenne (Unimaginative, by-the-book, loyal) (Marc’s friend) (In command of Defender-class “Reliant”)

Lord-Commander Mikel Leiser (Unimaginative, by-the-book, loyal) (Marc’s friend) (In command of Defender-class “Fortitude”)

Lord-Commander Payat Teigon (Obedient, by-the-book¸ cruel) (Old timer’s descendant) (In command of Guardian-class “Shield”)

Lady-Commander Ioanna Datz (Independent, skilled, blunt) (Old timer’s descendant) (No command)

>Perhaps you should move your skilled commanders about ? (How ?)

>Maybe time has come to transfer your command ? (To where ?)
>>
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>Fenrir-class frigate. 140 meters in length. A crew complement of 120. The direct successor to the wolf-class. The frigate is better armoured with a far more powerful reactor and advanced engines. Its weapon systems are top of the line. 4 laser turrets, 2 atop and 2 at the bottom. 4 railguns in total, 2 on the starboard and 2 on the port. A single forward facing M.A.G. cannon. Initial testing had shown that despite the slight increase in cost, Fenrir-class had presented itself capable of handling two wolf-classes at once. Of course, these experiments were conducted in a controlled environment.
>>
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>Protector-class frigate. 140 meters in length. A crew complement of 100. An improvement on the defender-class. With a total of 12 laser turrets, 6 at the bottom, 6 on the top, initial tests shown a great increase of AS capability for its size. With a total of 4 railgun turrets, the Protector is capable of fighting toe to toe with wolf-class frigates and more than able to annihilate its predecessor class.
>>
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>Pummeller-class frigate. 200 meters in length. A crew complement of 170. The Pummeller has 12 missile launcher, 6 on each of its side. Its armour is thinner than that of even the striker-class, but in exchange for that, the vessel has far more powerful engines. Most after action reports suggest that increased armour is meaningless, as once the enemy closes the distance, the volatile munitions tend to be detonated, as such, the new design was made with the increase of speed in mind.
>>
>>5165145
>Perhaps you should move your skilled commanders about?
Give Datz command of the Timur, move Kenne and Leiser from their Defenders into the two free Guardians.

>Maybe time has come to transfer your command?
Remain on the Horus.

As for Battelgroups, I'm thinking we fuse all our current ones, including Test Group 19 plus a Guardian, the Bullseye and the Timur. This will be Battlegroup Center, with the Timur up front tanking fire while the missile group dishes out good damage and Test Group 19 protecting the Timur and the Javelins from enemy frigates.
Then we make two flanking forces, each with a Vigilance at it's head, with two Raiders, a Guardian, 4 wolves and 2 defenders each.
Someone come up with better names for the battelgroups because I am creatively bankrupt.

>>5165136
Up until the update, yeah I could've gone for another 2 wolves and defenders, but seeing Test Group 19 holding on to the 70 Influence is probably worth it. We'd be buying obsolete ships with them right now, instead of waiting a mission until we can probably buy Fenrir's and Protectors instead. And if we are going to wipe next mission, four additional frigates won't change much.
>>
>>5165145
A shame about those officer losses. We should look into getting a few more if our fleet is increasing in size. As for organisation:

>Keep our current command
The Timur simply isn't our style. While it's heavily armored and has better guns, it's too slow to suit our trademark rapid assault doctrine.
>Datz in command of the Timur
>Leiser transferred to a raider
>Kenne transferred to a raider
>Merge Battle group hunters with artemis
>Form two new Battle groups out of the remaining wolves and defenders. Four Wolves and two defenders making up one group.
That should clean things up nicely. But I really am getting a little worried about our officer losses recently. Good ones will be hard to find, and hard to replace too.
>>
>>5165145
>Perhaps you should move your skilled commanders about ? (Give Ioanna Datz command of a battle group with the Horus as her Flagship and two Raiders and a guardian under her command. Move all the freshly purchased frigates in the hunter pack battlegroup)

>Maybe time has come to transfer your command ? (To the Timur)
>>
>>5165145
>Perhaps you should move your skilled commanders about ? (How ?)
Who still command defenders to guardians and Datz to horus

>Maybe time has come to transfer your command ? (To where ?)
To Timur
>>
>>5165145
>Maybe time has come to transfer your command ? (To where ?)
>To the Timur
>>
>>5165145
Merge Battle Group Hunters Pack into Battle Group Artemis. A Battle Group with nothing but one defender and one striker is useless. Furthermore, add three Wolves to Battle Group Artemis.
>>
Reorganization seems to be a bit over the place (If anyone has any ideas on how to make this easier I am listening)

So if anyone hasn't voted yet, or want to change your vote. Please designate one of the plans presented.

First to 3 supports will be chosen
>>
>>5165176
support
>>
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>>5165145
first of all, reorganize the fleet a little bit around

first, we move the 4 new defender classes about, with 1 going into the hunters pack and 1 into Artemis. this way we have more defense in them. with the last two going into into a new detachment: the capital core. as to give a more rounded point defense when in the thick of it.

then, we destroyers are each split up into two detachments, each with their own guardian class destroyer. as to have two heavy punch-through detachments ready for any given frontline needed to be smashed in.

after the destroyers got grouped, we get the two light cruisers together with two wolf classes to make a speedster detachment. one able to quickly flank targets. even if a little bit vulnerable, they should be able to kill most opponents before they even get a dent themselves.

the wolfpack and Artemis just stays the same, though wolfpack having gotten reinforced back up to a acceptable ship count.

>Perhaps you should move your skilled commanders about ? (How ?)

commander loanna datz's becomes the leader of the wolfpack, her independence leading well to finding opportunities and vulnerabilities in a swarm against larger opponents.

Payat Teigon goes into battle group Artemis, his job being to hammer missiles into the enemy, nothing more.

mikel leiser goes into the ironclad courage detachment, with giacomo kenne going into the spear of bronze detachment. their jobs being to smash anything in their way.

>Maybe time has come to transfer your command ? (To where ?)
we move over to the capital core, being the captain of the new timur ship we bought. while marc ahsing moves over into the horus. him now leading the emperors dagger detachment.
>>
>>5166357
And changing to
>>5166426
>>
>>5166426
I'll support if only because fleet org gives me a headache.
>>
>>5166306
I'll switch to this >>5166426
>>
>>5166426

Is how the fleet is now organized.

Once more, salute to you fleet-anon.

Writing.
>>
With the headache of reorganization finally coming to an end. You find a moment to sit back and relax aboard your new flagship – “TCLC-TL-023”, truly an inspiring name. No doubt you will come up with something better later on.

The captain's quarters on the ship are rather bare. Being a newly constructed vessel, it was made simply as a part of a bulk order. Whilst your room is still nice and comfortable, with a large window allowing you to gaze upon the stars, it also lacks the opulence of your previous command. Maybe you should consider investing a bit to personalize it ? After all, grey metallic walls get tiresome to stare at after a while.

Enjoying a well-deserved glass of wine, you begin to look through your datapad. With Baron gone, you need a new leader for the marines. A few choices come to mind.

Sergeant Warwick Ahyet – one of the few survivors of the original group. His experience is beyond doubt, but judging by the records, he was passed for promotion again and again. Aggression, disorderly behaviour, stubbornness. Qualities that do a sergeant well, presuming he has a CO capable of directing all of that towards the enemy. Picking him would definitely please the old guard, and see all of them promoted to officer positions. Experienced and capable, though they might also hold a grudge against you. You did send them to hell again and again, and these men lack the excessive professionalism and stoicism of Baron.

Corporal Suraj Zehner – a new blood, young and ambitious, but tempered by experience on the battlefield, you don’t get into the a spec ops training program without it. Whilst the training these men had to go through ensures their capability. They still lack experience compared to the old guard. Not to mention that, Corporal is a corporal, throwing him into a position of an LT might be overwhelming and cause him to flounder, but he is a new set of eyes, for good of for ill. If he is promoted, no doubt he’d put those he knows in command, the old guard would particularly balk at being under command of “greenhorns” at least by their standard.

Of course, there is the option of outsiders. You are still missing 40 men. You could get a new group, a neutral group, maybe they will synergize, maybe they will clash, but you can do it.

Finally, you could just let them sort it out. Put them all on equal authority and let the pecking order stabilize naturally. Both sides will like it, no doubt, but it could result in clash of orders and opinions on the field. A dangerous prospect, still, it might establish comradery faster than any other method.
>>
>>5166591

>Actually, before I make a decision, I would like to interview someone. (Who ?) (Can be picked more than once)

>The Sergeant. The old guard deserve it. They should bring the rookies in line quick and dirty.

>The Corporal. New blood, new ideas. Overwhelming number should pressure the veterans to calm themselves.

>Time has come to scrounge up whatever you can find on the station. Hopefully it will be worth your time.
>>
>>5166593
>>The Sergeant. The old guard deserve it. They should bring the rookies in line quick and dirty.
>>
>>5166593
>The Sergeant. The old guard deserve it. They should bring the rookies in line quick and dirty.
Hell comes with the job. In ours and in theirs
>>
>>5166593
>The Sergeant. The old guard deserve it. They should bring the rookies in line quick and dirty.


He can hate us if he wants, what NCO likes their betters?
>>
>>5166593
>Time has come to scrounge up whatever you can find on the station. Hopefully it will be worth your time.
>>
>>5166593
>The Sergeant. The old guard deserve it. They should bring the rookies in line quick and dirty.
>>
>>5166593
>Actually, before I make a decision, I would like to interview someone.
SGT Ahyet. Can't hurt, even if it is a formality.
>>
>>5166593
>>The Sergeant. The old guard deserve it. They should bring the rookies in line quick and dirty.
>>
>>5166593
>The Sergeant. The old guard deserve it. They should bring the rookies in line quick and dirty.
>>
>>5166593
>>The Sergeant. The old guard deserve it. They should bring the rookies in line quick and dirty.
>>
Alright, Sergeant wins decisively.

Writing.
>>
The Sergeant, he will do. You have to reward effort.

Signing the appropriate documentation, you officially set the Sergeant on the path of promotion towards Lieutenant. Once the promotion arrives, he will hopefully sort out your marines and organize them properly.

With the final matter concluded, you find yourself with some free time. Most of the fleet is currently smashing apart the Raisat Star League. Patrol routes already have assigned groupings towards them. long before the invasion was even launched. You have officially been put on reserve duty, meaning, that unless things start exploding, you are free to sit on your ass.

Whilst sitting alone in your quarters getting drunk is a favourite pass time of some captains, the silence is driving you insane.

(Can pick more than one)

>Maybe I should check up on Gavril ? Invite him for a drink.

>Never really conversed with Tets. Maybe ask about her family ?

>Warwick Ahyet, as the new leader of my marines, I should definitely converse with him.

>Now that I think about it, Alpizar should be on station.

>I could go look for my officers, tighter bonds are always welcome. (Which ? (All))

>Fuck it, I have the time. I will speak with everyone.

>You know what ? I think I will just sit here and get drunk.

>Perhaps someone else ? (Write in)
>>
>>5167714
>Fuck it, I have the time. I will speak with everyone.
>>
>>5167714
>Fuck it, I have the time. I will speak with everyone.
>>
>>5167714
>Fuck it, I have the time. I will speak with everyone.

Flirt with Tets and Alpi though. Also, can we also take part in the destruction of the Star League, or is that simply not feasible?
>>
>>5167714
>Fuck it, I have the time. I will speak with everyone.
>>
>>5167714
>Fuck it, I have the time. I will speak with everyone.
>>
>>5167714
>>You know what ? I think I will just sit here and get drunk.
>>
>>5167714
>Fuck it, I have the time. I will speak with everyone.
>>
>>5167727
Flirting with Tets sound like sticking your dick in a fusion engine, but I'm here for it.
>>
>>5167714
>I have the time. I will speak with everyone.
>>
>>5167727
no flirting with tets, we are to stay true to alpi. she is best girl.

also

>>5167714
>Perhaps someone else ? (Write in)
i wanna go and see what the station has of possible things which WE could be interested in. like, what body modification possibilites could be up for grabs if we were to wanna get some?

i've also been thinking, if we possibly could ask around as to where we could possibly find another exo-suit. i really. REALLY wish for us to be able to grab one soon to both aid our marines in ground combat, and possibly destroy larger ships from the inside if we were to make a stealth ship which could house such a creature.
>>
Fuck it, I have the time, might as well speak with everyone. It’s not like I have something to lose by conversing with everyone.

Hitting your comm, you quickly call up Gavril.

“Gavril, come up to my quarters, captain’s orders.”

“Aye, aye captain. Coming right over.”

A minute or two after, your friend shows up, wanders towards the fridge and grabs a cold drink, before plopping himself next to you.

“Could you stop changing flagships every other mission ? We’re the poor bastards that have to lug the crates back and forth.” He says before taking a sip of beer.

“Sorry about it, but you’ve gotta look proper with my rank and all. Also, the chances of this ship getting shot to shit are reduced.” You emphasise the point by hitting your foot against the floor. “Thick and new armour plates, way batter than what the Vigilance had.”

“Oh, I have no doubt that with your leadership, you will find a way mister ghoul.”

“Ghoul ?”

“Yea, Ghoul. Whispers are, mountains of bodies follow you wherever you go. Both friend and foe alike, and you usually get buried by the bodies, but somehow you always crawl out alive. The undying captain.”

“But ghoul ? Seriously ?”

You sigh, maybe you should supress this, or just let it run its course, there’s no way that it would stick, right ?

With great amusement unhidden on Gavril’s face, he simply states.

“Yup.”

Before you can dwell on the thoughts on your new nickname, Gavril continues.

“Also, that Iron guy, or whatever. He’s been freaking the crew the fuck out.”

“What, he runs about spouting philosophy ? Threatening people for no goddamn reason ?”

“The former, yea. No one really wants to go to his lab cause of that. Nothing on the latter.” He takes a sip of his drink before continuing. “Nah, what freaks people out the most is the fact that even though folks have been coming and going from his lab almost every hour or two, since he always needs things taken and brought, no one’s ever seen the fucker sleeping. Nor eating, nor taking a shit.”

“Sounds like something most obsessive researchers do.”

“Oh yea, for a day, two, maybe even three, I’d agree with you. Problem is, he’s been doing that non-stop for the past two weeks. Not to mention those drones of his, the little things have been floating about the entirety of the ship, further unnerving the crew. No one knows when those things are watching, and they don’t like it.”

Another headache, of course.

“Right, I’ll look into it. Got any more complaints or can we drink ?”

“No complaints anymore, nope.”

You spend the next couple of hours just shooting the shit with Gavril, the subject of his retirement going unmentioned during the entire conversation.
>>
>>5168291

Looking at the empty wine bottle, you feel a nice buzz, nice enough to deal with Tets and her nagging. Hopping up, you clear the table and put the filtration system to full blast, don’t want to be nagged as soon as she enters.

Once you can no longer smell the scent of alcohol, you once more hit the comms and call Tetreault.

“Lady-Lieutenant Commander Tetreault, report to my quarters.” You state before going to the kitchen, preparing both some tea and coffee, you have no idea what she prefers, if she even likes hot drinks.

Shortly thereafter, Tetreault walks into the room.

“Captain, you requested my presence ?”

“I did, come, sit. Since we have some time for R&R I’ve come to a realization that I know nothing about my XO. What sort of captain I am if I know nothing about my direct subordinates ? Tea or coffee ?”

Sitting and clearing her throat, a quiet, barely audible voice calls out. ”ʰᵒᵗ ᶜᵒᶜᵒᵃ”

“I’m sorry what ?”

“Tea with sugar will do.”

“Oh, okay.” I swear I heard her saying something.

You yourself grab a cup of coffee; you need the pick me up after the drinks. As for the tea, you notice that after tasting it, Tetreault adds even more sugar in it.

“So, since we’re not conversing in an official capacity, may I call you Erina ?”

“I would prefer not to, sir. Even off duty, proper decorum must be observed.”

“Alright then. So Tetreault, tell me about your home, family, and of course yourself.”

“Everything about me ? Very well. I hail from a Baron house of Tetreault. Our house comes from a small outer coreworld. The planet itself is not rich nor pleasant to live on. Most of world’s natural resources have long since been stripped away to feed the forges of the deeper coreworlds. It is now nothing but a polluted and irradiated planetoid, around the size of Earth’s moon.”

“Wow, sounds like a horrible place to live on.” You try your best to avoid cursing.

“It is. The reason for the radiation is because the world had become a dump for the nearby worlds. The locals scrounge up and recycle whatever they can and then they sell it off. This situation is one of the main reasons why I was willing to join your command, captain.”

You ponder for a moment. “What, your house is treated as lesser ? Unclean ?”

“Precisely so, most other noble born refer to my house as “House Rubbishborn”. As such, no mistakes in my decorum are acceptable.”

Well, at least she’s not a stick in the mud without a reason, unlike most drill sergeants.

“As for my family. Both of my parents are alive and healthy. I have one older brother in line to inherit the position of baron. As for me, I will most likely marry a rich tycoon, in search of noble blood to reinforce his position. We both shall do our duty to the house.”

An awkward silence fills the room. Tetreault unwilling to disclose anything, and you yourself unaware of what to say.
>>
>>5168294

“Well, thanks for sharing with me, Tetreault. I hope you enjoyed the tea and I look forward to fighting alongside you.”

She rises from her seat and delivers a salute. “Captain.” She states before turning around and departing the room.

Not every blue blood has it easy it seems.

Taking a few moments to relax, you sigh, before hitting the comms and contacting the bridge.

“Comm, contact Serg- wait, Lieutenant Warwick Ahyet. I want him at my quarter in five.”

A quick acknowledgement comes from the other end, and you look around the room.

Alcohol ? Maybe some juice ? Or should I go for something hot ? Or maybe nothing at all ? Being a host is difficult.

Unsure of what to get, you decide to simply wait for your new Lieutenant and pick whatever there and then.

Exactly 5 minutes later, Ahvet shows up in your room.

The man is around 1.85 meters, a rather bulky build. He appears to be clean shaven, both on the face and the head. He reminds you of someone who just got out of boot camp, your scalp hurts as you remember how roughly they butchered your haircut. A rather serious looking face is decorated by a pair of light brown eyes. His skin colour appears to be lightly toned.

Rising from you seat you call out. “Ah, Lieutenant. Come and sit. Would you something to drink ?” Moving towards the kitchen you ask.

“Beer ‘d be nice.” He says sitting down.

Once grabbing a pair, you also sit, facing the man. “I’d like to know you better, Lieutenant. With your new position we will be working together a lot, so I’d wish to know a bit more about you.”

“And what would that be, captain ?”

“Well, I already got a general gist of your record from Baron.” You notice that the man winces at your former marine leader’s name. “I’d like to hear from you, what was your best moment ?”

The man’s face scrunches up as he begins to ponder.

“I guess. Coran III, a shithole. I guess you’d technically classify it as an ash world. Oceans of lava, burning fields, volcanos throwing out enough to cover the planet’s entire surface, combat suits specially made for intense heat struggling to keep you alive, enough sweat to make you as slick as a fish.

Funny thing was, the mountain ranges had snow on them, the lack of sunlight and containment of heat meant that we had to fight with pitch black camo on a white surface.”

“Sounds horrid. How many of you were fighting there ?”

“Don’t know exact numbers, but both sides had at least 10 infantry division, with about 7 armour on our side and 5 on Scorpius. Had fuck all for artillery support, had to keep mobile you see. The tectonic plates would shift and shift. Only those cold regions seemed stable enough, but even those were rocked by earthquakes.”

“So the only stable locations on a world that, I assume, was exceptionally minerally rich, were the cold areas. I presume you had a fuck of a fight trying to take those ?”
>>
>>5168296

“Oh yea, bloody fighting there. It was at one of those that I did my best. Before I was signed on the spec ops program.

Was a corporal back then. With Scorpius having control of those positions for so long, they had put down artillery to shake the mountains. Had to slog our way up there, the place was too jagged and narrow to allow armoured elements, and the AA way too thick to allow aerial insertion, not like the ash made it any easy to begin with.

To cut a long story short. The initial barrage had shattered us, but I was able to rally some of the elements from my company and charge up. People called me a madman, but we reached those bunkers, and we blow those pieces to bits. That allowed for the remainder of our forces to advance and take the whole complex.”

Looking at the fourth now empty beer can in front of him, Warwick rises from his seat. “If there’s nothing more captain. I’ve gotta organize the marines.”

“As you were Lieutenant.”

With the final person aboard, you wished to converse with now gone, you can always deal with Iron later on. You stand up, crack your back and neck and go off. It has been long since you last saw Alpi. With that in mind, you depart your new flagship and move about the station.

You rather quickly find where Alpizar’s force is docked, there you are quickly informed that she’s not present and is instead having lunch at the noble officer’s lounge.

A short trip later, you are looking around the lounge, and you do eventually spot a tired looking Alpizar.

“My Lady, you seem quite exhausted on a fine day like this, how about this brilliant knight entertains you and avails your concerns.” You say with the biggest smirk on your face.

She looks upwards, surprised by the sudden interruption. Realizing that it is in fact you and not some hot-blooded idiot looking to pick her up…it isn’t, is it ?

“Proenza. Did not expect to see you, what brings you here.” You look over her table and a half-eaten sandwich resting on her plate.

“Well, I’ve done a lot of drinking today, but not a whole lot of eating, do you mind ?”

“Please, go ahead.” She gestures towards the seat next to hers.

“How are you holding up, Alpi ?”

“Please do not refer to me as that. You might as well call me by my name at that point.” Annoyed she states.

That works too.

“Very well, Rasia. How’re you holding up.”

“I am doing fine. Just tired. I’ve been busy reorganizing my forces whilst carrying out patrol duties. I can’t wait for this front to quiet down. Even for the frontier, it has been far too hectic.”

“If it weren’t for the chaos, I wouldn’t be captain, nor would you for that matter. No better time than now to get some merits.” You continue to grin.

“I suppose. The sooner I head back to the core the happier I’ll be. You do not realize just how luxurious living there is before you head out to the edges of the Unbroken Empire.”
>>
>>5168297

“Speaking of, from how deep do you come ?”

“I was born all the way on Proxima Centauri. A Viscount’s house, but we lived like Margraves. Centuries of accumulated wealth and political influence does that. But I’ve been away from home for a long time, ever since marrying into a Count’s house here in the duchy.”

You see a nostalgic expression come over her face.

“When I was little girl, I just rode horses upon my family’s land, never expecting to lead a military detachment of my own. But things change quickly.”

Sighing, she stands from her seat. “I am sorry, I must’ve sounded like an old granny reminiscing. I’ve still got duties to attend to. I will see you later, Proenza.”

“Best of luck, Rasia.” Your cheeky grin grows larger as she realizes her mistake of giving you a blank cheque to refer to her by her name.
>>
Shit's taking a while, it's night. Will do the officers tomorrow.
>>
>>5168301
No problem.
One questions what's Proeza's family background?
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>>5168301
If we stock up on a bunch of hot cocoa before we depart, I can forgive such dereliction of duty. Sweet dreams NewbQM.
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>>5168301
Well then good night dear qm and when you wake up please answer to questions.

Where we already reward by Countess for Iron codes or not? Its little bit vague.

And can put more/triple the emergency test until fleets crews can do them half the time they are extected or until we the part fot station. And reward the crews/marines then.

And i like coco anons idea, we should get few "better" rations for the crews/marines and to better the overall moral. As will our nickname is infamous, we should try to boost its effect on our enemies and lessen on our subordinates.
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>>5168301
>QM, how does our noble house see us personally? The title of Ghoul is something that came from our crew or came from outside? In short, how is our general reputation?
>>
>>5168316
Pretty sure we're common born, it was in the character creation for the first thread.
>>
>>5167714
>Maybe I should check up on Gavril ? Invite him for a drink.
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>>5168484
I know we are common, but what kind of jobs doe our parents do? Do we have brothers and sisters? That kinda stuff.
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>>5168405

>Where we already reward by Countess for Iron codes or not? Its little bit vague.

You got paid for it, yes. Whether or not the Countess wants to give you anything else remains to be seen after her return.
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>>5168455

>QM, how does our noble house see us personally?

Indifference. Everyone knows the Countess picked out potential seedlings and everyone is just watching who will rise to the top.

>The title of Ghoul is something that came from our crew or came from outside?

As it always is with rumours and gossip like this, you have no idea. All that matters is that it spread and that people are talking about it.

>In short, how is our general reputation?

Nobles view you as an upjumped commoner, foolhardy and borderline insane, but they have to grudgingly admit that you deliver results wherever you are assigned. As of the commoners, they always like to see one of their own rising up and not acting like the nobles whom he just joined.

No one however actually wants to serve under you. Expect gloryhounds and psychos who are actually attracted to your reputation.

So if nothing else, you will be getting aggressive captains volunteering to serve under you. For good or for ill.
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>>5168977
>No one however actually wants to serve under you. Expect gloryhounds and psychos who are actually attracted to your reputation.
So we're basically turbo Bittenfeld, got it.
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well if we are going for a "ghoul" character, i want us to go ALL THE WAY

could we get something, like maybe skulls being painted onto our flag ship and fleet? i wanna see all of our ships be marked with skulls painted on. golden skulls though. we might be a bloody cleaver, but we are still the finest cleaver the countess will ever see.

(also, mask like pic related could be cool to have for whenever doing dealings with others, intimidation factor and all that jazz)
>>
>>5169112
Captain/Admiral Ghoul and his undying fleet
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>>5169136
"the ghoul king, and his iron legion" would be cool as shit.
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>>5169112
What about a part skull, part ghoul face?
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>>5168299

After a quick and light lunch, you decide to go and look for Marc. Last you heard; he was heading towards the training rooms.

Arriving there, you are greeted by the sight of a small crowd in one of the training rooms. It doesn’t take you long to figure out why so many people have gathered, as you see two figures with their training blades raised facing each other.

The smaller of the two is Marc. His entire body is still as stone, with his blade raised in front of him, gripped by both of his hands. He is unflinching, eyes concentrated and narrowed, entirely fixed upon his foe.

The other man seems to be far more muscular than Marc and about a head and a half taller than him. He also appears to be serious, the blade steady in his hands.

Then, as if an unknown signal sounded, the muscular man rapidly rushes Marc. Based on his speed, you can tell that he has genehancements. With great strength, he delivers a downwards slash.

Marc steps forward, before the swing could truly gain momentum, he parries the blow, directing the strength upwards, exposing his foe. The man reacts quickly, but Marc is faster. With his blade in position, he delivers what could be considered a light strike upon the neck. But a light strike is enough.

The muscular man staggers back, grasping his throat. Marc follows up, swinging at the knees, forcing the man down, then a quick, vicious stab to the solar plexus finally knocks his foe on his back.

Marc exhales, tension leaving his body as his opponent wriggles on the floor.

Finally realizing what’s happening, the cool young man once more transforms into a jittering youth.

“Oh, um, ah, I’m sorry, would you like some help ?”

Oh God, Marc. You’re making it worse.

Realizing you cannot simply stand around, you move out and grab Marc, before he manages to antagonize everyone present.

“Oh, captain. How can I help you ?” After being dragged out of the training room, Marc asks you.

“Nothing much. I simply wanted to talk to you. I am currently on a quest to converse with everyone I know.” Because I am bored, but he doesn’t need to know that.

“Oh, uhh, what would you like to know ?”

“Your swordsmanship. Last time I saw you back in the infirmary, you were also training with your sword.”

“Oh, that. Well, my father is a master swordsman. Ever since I was young, he thought me swordsmanship. I am quite confident in my skills, if you ever want to get better at it, feel free to ask.”

“I’ll make sure to keep that in mind.” You half-heartedly respond “There was something that I wanted your opinion.”

“Ah, yes. I will make sure to give it my all.”

“Calm down. What do you think of my leadership ? The missions we go onto ?”

“Oh, um, well. I, uh. Not that I am complaining, Captain. But, maybe we can ease off on suicidal missions ?”

You burst out laughing. “I never bring us into suicidal missions, Marc. We always come back, don’t we ?”
>>
>>5169205

“Well, I guess so, sir. Still, I would strongly advise you to reconsider. I fear I am not cut out for such activities.”

Maybe I should send Marc on easier assignments. He might request a transfer at this rate.

“I’ll keep that in mind. I’ve still got some people to meet.” You state whilst departing.

After that quick talk, you decide to look for Kenne and Leiser. You barely know anything about them, other than the fact that they are Marc’s friends, and that they come from Baronet houses.

You rather rapidly find them; it doesn’t take long to look through the upper station levels. Both of them seem to be engaged in a game of cards.

“Afternoon, gents. Mind one more ?”

“Captain ?” Both state at the same time, surprised by your appearance. They quickly calm down and give way for you to sit down.

Taking the cards, you once more begin the usual spiel. “Want to know more about you commanders. After all, we’ll be fighting alongside each other for a while yet.”

The two commanders exchange glances, before Kenne begins.

“Well, we both are from baronet houses on the expansion zone, just after the outer coreworlds. We both hail from the same star system. I suppose the system was rich enough. Most of its natural resources are still untapped, the population is booming and modernization creeps ever endlessly.”

“It’s just that were both down on the picking order.” Cuts in Leister. “There are dime a dozen baronets and even more knights around. Other than a few square kilometres of land, we don’t really own much. That’s why we willingly jumped at the chance of military service.”

“Yea, I’m third born, he’s fourth.” Once more Kenne continues. “Only real way for us to make anything of our lives is through risking our necks.”

“Just like our predecessors did.” Finishes Leister.

“If worst comes to worst, we’ll be by your side captain.” Says Kenne.

“Yea, it would have taken us a decade if ever at all to be in charge of our own detachment. We owe you one.” Leister continues the praise.

You spend about half an hour just making small talk. Despite their welcoming praises, you can still feel a certain distance between you and the two officers. Almost like they themselves are uncertain on how they should treat you. To avoid any further awkwardness, you bid farewell after winning a round and move on.

Next stop, the lower levels, apparently. You never would have expected Ioanna to be down there.

Making you way to a seedy bar. You are momentarily surprised as a half beaten drunk stumbles out of the establishment, the noise of a fight can be heard through the open door. Peering inside, you quickly find Ioanna in the middle of the chaos.

She seems to be quite happy, smashing someone over the head with a metal stool. Her lackadaisical attitude can be explained by half-a-dozen men, clearly soldiers, more likely than not, her marines.
>>
>>5169207

You simply walk through the pandemonium, dodging the flying bottles, giving the occasional punch to whomever was stupid enough to try and get in your way.

“Lady-Commander Datz, I see you found your own entertainment.”

“Captain, what a surprise seeing you here.”

“How did this mess start ?”

“Some pig said what he shouldn’t, so I gave him a piece of my mind.”

“And it lead to this ?”

“Well, I skipped a few steps, but yes, essentially.”

“Not the best place to have a conversation.” You duck under a mug flying at you. “But I suppose it’ll have to do.” You take a seat at the bar, grabbing a still unopened bottle and popping it.

“So, Datz, how’s your family ?”

Sitting next to you and grabbing what you assume was her drink, she begins to ponder.

“Well, my great, great, great, grandfather.” She says in a questioning tone. “Is still alive, thanks to his service, we were made Viscounts. He had retired that title and gave it to…my ancestor.” Not bothering to count out the generations she says. “Now my father’s in charge, after him it’ll be my brother.”

“So where are you from ?”

“The expansion zone. We got given an entire star system to ourselves.”

“So why are you sitting here, in a seedy bar on the edge of the empire ? Sounds like you should have been given a better posting than this.”

She begins to laugh uncontrollably. “Remember when I talked about my brother ? Well, I have three of them, all older. And two sisters around my age. That is not counting all of my uncles, aunts, nephews, nieces, cousins and everything in between.”

“Sound like a rowdy family.” You chuckle.

“It is. Though the downside of that is the fact that not every one of us can be given an appropriate, title, or command. So, many like I have to make do. I at the very least have the advantage of being a direct descendant. Got proper schooling cause of that.”

“You get along with them ?”

“Not all noble families are full of intrigue and deception, just most.” She smiles. “Anyways, Captain. I do enjoy conversing, but I’ve gotta go and do my duties, despite the fine entertainment.” She rises from her seat.

Only now do you spot that most of the visitors are either on the floor or long gone. Seems like its about time for you to bounce as well.

And then there was one. Payat Teigon, you wonder if you’ll even be able to hold a proper conversation with that one.

It actually takes you a long time to find him. Apparently, he has a tendency to just disappear of the map. Eventually you find out that he usually hangs out in the library.

And just like it was said. You find there, sitting in a corner, reading books, like a nerd, actual books at that. Not any datapads or screens.

With the quiet environment, your steps echo, alerting Teigon of your presence.

“Captain. If I was required, you could have informed me, coming here must have been tiresome.”
>>
>>5169208

“That’s why I’m here. I wanted to see my officers in their natural environments. Get to know you better.”

“Very well, sir. What are your questions ?”

That unmoving face sure is making this unpleasant.

“Where do you come from ?”

“The mid coreworlds.”

You wait, hoping for further elaboration. The man just stares at you.

“Okay. What about your family ?”

“Parents alive. Two older brothers, one younger sister.”

For the love of all that is holy. Speak, man, speak.

Sighing, you try to make this into a dialogue and not a monologue.

“Any hobbies ?”

“Reading, sir.”

Enlightening as always.

For once, it is Teigon that breaks the silence.

“Would that be all, captain ?”

“Yes. That’d be all.” Unwilling to continue this any longer, you depart and return to your quarters.

Plopping onto your bed, you are just about to drift to sleep, before your comms officer contacts you.

“Captain, you’ve received a private message from Chora IV. Passing it to your comms device, now.”

“Understood, thank you officer, that will be all.” Cutting the connection, you look over the message.

It seems to be a message from:

>Your bastard of a father, if he even deserves that name. Though at least he did feed you. When he wasn’t drunk or felt like it. Still, you had a roof over your head. More than most in the slums.

>Your father. He was there, you suppose. A factory worker that spent most of his time away from home. You had what you needed to survive, but you never really talked to him all that often. He cared, that much was clear, but you never formed a strong bond.

>Your dad. A minor clerk. The only reason why he hadn’t lost his position is because his salary was so low, that no one bothered to actually automate it. Despite all this, he spent as much time as he could with you. He endeavoured to be there whenever you needed him.
>>
4083 words according to MS word.

You anons wanted to talk, you got some talking.

>>5169112

>(also, mask like pic related could be cool to have for whenever doing dealings with others, intimidation factor and all that jazz)

I mean, you have someone in your employ capable of making custom gear. Best time as any if you want to lean in on the nickname
>>
>>5169209
>>Your dad. A minor clerk. The only reason why he hadn’t lost his position is because his salary was so low, that no one bothered to actually automate it. Despite all this, he spent as much time as he could with you. He endeavoured to be there whenever you needed him.
>>
>>5169209
>Your dad. A minor clerk. The only reason why he hadn’t lost his position is because his salary was so low, that no one bothered to actually automate it. Despite all this, he spent as much time as he could with you. He endeavoured to be there whenever you needed him.
It's probable that he used all the strings he gathered during his life and pulled them to get us on a ship and GTFO.
Drunkard father would likely be runaway and factory dad means he worked his ass of as did we to get somewhere.
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>>5169209
>Your dad. A minor clerk. The only reason why he hadn’t lost his position is because his salary was so low, that no one bothered to actually automate it. Despite all this, he spent as much time as he could with you. He endeavoured to be there whenever you needed him.
>>
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>>5169209
>Your dad. A minor clerk. The only reason why he hadn’t lost his position is because his salary was so low, that no one bothered to actually automate it. Despite all this, he spent as much time as he could with you. He endeavoured to be there whenever you needed him.

so no chance for siblings? aww i else wanted us to also have a sister

>>5169212
yes, that is definitely something i would like as a possibility.
the ghoul king, one which makes any battle he leaves a cemetery. with a death-mask and golden clad hulls engrained almost like void caskets (again, not saying you need to, asking to maybe have a vote on it, unless people just comment enough (you)'s to show there is a large group wanting it)
>>
>>5169260

>so no chance for siblings? aww i else wanted us to also have a sister

Have patience anon. Geez.
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>>5169282
A dozen siblings confirmed.
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>>5169209
>Your dad. A minor clerk. The only reason why he hadn’t lost his position is because his salary was so low, that no one bothered to actually automate it. Despite all this, he spent as much time as he could with you. He endeavoured to be there whenever you needed him.
>>
>>5169209
>Your dad. A minor clerk. The only reason why he hadn’t lost his position is because his salary was so low, that no one bothered to actually automate it. Despite all this, he spent as much time as he could with you. He endeavoured to be there whenever you needed him.

Thank you very much for the huge amount of text QM.
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>>5169209
>Your father. He was there, you suppose. A factory worker that spent most of his time away from home. You had what you needed to survive, but you never really talked to him all that often. He cared, that much was clear, but you never formed a strong bond.

I think mean drunk father would fit us better, but I can't help but think that a quietly proud father would be kino as hell.
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>>5169209
>Your father. He was there, you suppose. A factory worker that spent most of his time away from home. You had what you needed to survive, but you never really talked to him all that often. He cared, that much was clear, but you never formed a strong bond.
>>
>>5169209
>>Your dad. A minor clerk. The only reason why he hadn’t lost his position is because his salary was so low, that no one bothered to actually automate it. Despite all this, he spent as much time as he could with you. He endeavoured to be there whenever you needed him.

We go as hard as we do to make Papa-san proud, and to show him his grey existence had worth and purpose after all.
>>
>>5169209
>>Your father. He was there, you suppose. A factory worker that spent most of his time away from home. You had what you needed to survive, but you never really talked to him all that often. He cared, that much was clear, but you never formed a strong bond.

>>5169260
You just want someone to inherit our fleet and reputation when we die don't you?
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>>5169209
>>Your dad. A minor clerk. The only reason why he hadn’t lost his position is because his salary was so low, that no one bothered to actually automate it. Despite all this, he spent as much time as he could with you. He endeavoured to be there whenever you needed him.
>>
Clerk 8

Worker 3

Daddy it is.

Writing.
>>
Your dad. That’s a surprise.

You push at your comm, and begin listening to the voice message.

“Hey Fergi, my little boy.” Oh God, no. I’m so happy no one else is here. Facepalming you think.

“Can you imagine my surprise when I heard that you were made commander ?” The voice continues. “I’m proud of you son. You’ll see, in no time you will make captain yet.” The cheerful tone exclaims. If only you knew. You chuckle to yourself.

“Make sure to stay out of danger.” The voice hardens. “I know you Fergi, you always get into fights and troubles. I do not want for the message to be one informing me of your death.” Genuine concern oozes from your comms device. I guess I should keep the ramming story to myself.

“Everyone else is doing fine. The neighbourhood is as rowdy as always, and most importantly, we are all safe. War has not come to our world, and God willing it never will.” The now calm voice goes on.

“Stay safe son. I love you and I hope you come and visit soon.” The voice finally cuts off.

“See you soon, dad.” You yourself mutter.

You drift off to the deepest, calmest sleep you’ve had in months.
.
.
.
You eventually awaken to the ever-annoying beeping from the comms device. Clicking it open, you groggily ask. “Yes ?”

“Ah, Captain. I am so proud over the fact that my melodious voice is the first thing you hear in the morning.” The rough, nearly pain inducing, metallic voice of Iron says.

“What do you want ?” Now awake, you ask in annoyance.

“I’ve made some progress; I shall be awaiting you in my laboratory.” Without even waiting for your response, he cuts the comm.

“Prick.” You call out whilst rising from the bed.

Grumbling all the way, you finally reach the lab. Two marines guarding the door salute you as you enter.

Inside, expensive thingamajigs are littered all around. You have no clue what most of this stuff does, but Iron wanted it, so you bought it. You also spot a couple of menials sorting out materials, Iron’s drones hovering over them, their railguns poised to fire. What lovely working conditions.

As for Iron himself, he is in fact quite easy to spot. Still in his suit, at least you hope that it is a suit, looking over some random piece of equipment.

He turns around to face you. “Captain. Good.” He nods at your approach, before looking upon the menials. “Leave.” And just like prisoners given amnesty, the two bolt out of the room.

“Charming as always I see.” You throw out a remark.

“I tend not to waste my time and effort when conversing to those that I deem irrelevant, and whose minds are simply incapable of greater comprehension.” He states dismissively.

“Oh, so what ? Am I one of those with great comprehension ?”

“No. But you hold authority. Even an ape with a loaded rifle must be taken seriously, despite its lack of vivid imagination.”
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>>5170120

“You know, I think your greatest skill is pissing people off. How did a rusted creaking bucket like you survived is a mystery to me.”

“I am rather skilled. Regardless of our little spar of jabs, I called you here for a reason.” He states whilst giving you a piece of paper.

Looking it over, you quickly realize the serious implications…you have no fucking clue what most of these things are. They seem to be chemical elements, but that is as far as your knowledge goes.

“The material used in stealth plating. I’ve yet to comprehend the process of production and some elements are still out of my reach, but this preliminary list confirms my suspicions. A great number of materials from numerous different biomes, processed and smelted. A powerful, all encompassing industry and a robust R&D department was necessary for its creation.”

“So, who’s the subject ?”

“The ducal houses have the industry needed for it, but the dedication of resources for this would see a shortfall in their war effort, still, if they desired so, in time it is possible for someone to make a breakthrough and discover such technology.”

Unsurprising.

“Another contender would be the communications guild. Though they lack the industry and research capabilities for it, they possess vast amounts of favours and an endless ocean of information. For them, who rely on their mobile elements over anything, stealth technology would be truly tempting.”

Stealth tech in the hand of people obsessed with gathering of info. Sounds lovely.

“Then there’s the Federation.”

“The feds ? How are they in all of this ?” You ask puzzled.

“You are familiar with the foundation accord, yes ?”

“We learnt it at school, the Emperor’s granting of privileges to nobility.”

“Yes, the little-known fact is that even though the Federation had become an advisory body of the government, assisting the Emperor, they still hold power. Coreworlds that sided with the coming new order were given extensive autonomy, as means of acting as a counterbalance to both the Emperor and the ducal houses.

As such, there are coreworlds that still consider themselves as parts of the Federation first and foremost, over being subjects of the Unbroken Empire. They have the industry, the expertise, and the manpower needed for the development of such technology.”

“They planning to revolt ?”

“I know not, I am merely speculating.”

Old fossils planning on bringing back a failed system. This keeps getting better and better.

“Anything else ?”
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>>5170121

“Yes. The Imperial family” You stare at him wide-eyed. “Despite the current, unfortunate situation that they find themselves in, Earth had long become the centre of learning of mankind. They are in the proximity of the powerful industry; their technology is the greatest known to man. They also have all the reasons needed for stealth technology. Perhaps keep an eye on potential foes, acquire blackmail, gouge strength, et cetera, et cetera.”

“So, what you’re saying is, literally everyone could be responsible for this.” You state in the most deadpan voice you can.

Slightly annoyed, Iron says. “What I am saying is – it is not Prometheus. That, I can guarantee. And once I find out more about the materials, I will be able to construct scanners necessary to locate such material, narrowing down the distance between us, and whomever made the vessel in the first place.”

You sigh. “I suppose it's something. Have a report prepared, the Countess will want to know about your progress.”

“I shall, anything else ?”

>”No, nothing.”

>”Actually, yes. Tell me, can you make me something ?” (Write in)

>(Write in)
>>
>>5170122
>>(Write in)
Yes, you're not a human are you?
If yes how small fry are we compared to the rest of the galaxy?
>>
>>5170120
One question.
We are already transferring money to our family aren't we?
>>
>>5170122
Something like this can't have made it all the way here from the coreworlds unsupported. Fuel, supplies, even cloaked it used up a massive amount of power, and it would have to have been cloaked for a significant part of the journey to sneak it's way into this part of space. I wonder...

>Tell me, can you make me a list of all imperial and comms guild facilities in this area of space, especially ones that have shipyard capacity?

We should also talk to Payat about this, I have a feeling he'd be perfect to investigate any ducal or federation angles this ship might have come from. We should use our time at the Talax drodock and refuelling facilities, considering this is the closest spot it could have travelled from using normal routes. An unusual ship in dock shouldn't be too difficult to investigate.
>>
>>5170122
>”Actually, yes. Tell me, can you make me something ?” (Write in)
i don't feel like our boy proenza would be the type to make something like the mask yet, but i will definitely have him ask this.

"i am lacking the traditional sword of captains and officers, could you possibly fashion me a weapon to show who i am?"
unorthodox weapon would be best. something... with a punch.
>>
>>5170277
Support. I want a fucking nano sword or some shit. We need to be impressive and unique.

You know, so we can court Alpi like a proper Blueblood.
>>
>>5170419
i was else thinking something more non-sword-y, since we have been unconventional as of yet. this was why i kept the wording rather vague.
>>
>>5170452
When sword is very symbolic
>>
>>5170528
exactly why.
since it will just be even more of a show of "i break the rules, what are you gonna do about it? i get results, you don't" type of attitude. a rulebreaker which has come here by proving himself.

a spear, if anything, was what i was personally thinking of. a...ramming weapon, if you would like to think of it like such.
>>
>>5170549
Not to rain on your parade but spear is common mans weapon or in this case more like marines ceremonial weapon
>>
>>5170563
"but spear is common mans weapon"
this is quite literally the best thing it possibly could be. to signify our origins from the bottom to the top. a weapon made to contend with the big boys for a man who build his way to said top.
>>
>>5170572
And sword is sexy, its also much easier to carry around ship/station/planet and scabbard for the sword could be desing with our heritage/nickname inmind and still look acceptable but "rebellious"
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>>5170592
then we will just see which-ever way it goes, i can see your point, i don't agree in it. but i neither think my option is the "right one" so we will just see what the others vote for if it becomes a voting option.
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>>5170645
I would like to know how do see us use it if would be spear? Because i have a hard time seeing it.

As most like it will just status symbol just like officer sword. However carring it around noble social party would most likely give us a weird aura and people could demand in case of dual that we use sword as it a standard. But if we had super hyper sword, we could have advantage just by having superior sword.

And in case that we would on battlefield, would it not be better to sword in one hand and pistol in another hand as spear would most effective as two-handed weapon.

And as sidenote Marc could teach us with way of sword.

So fleet-anon i would like if you would give me piece of your mind. Like why should go with something that is unorthodox other that it different, what advantage do you see?
>>
>>5170645
And good night
>>
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>>5170726
well, the reasoning as to why i thought of a spear as the main weapon we would use, would've been:

1. it is distinct from the rest of the ducal houses, with a prominence that cannot be overlooked, and even if it is hard to bring around, i thought it might possibly be foldable, such that a nearly round scabbard could be used to hold said spear for when not in use.

2: yes it would give us a weird aura, and while that might come as a detriment, we have already earned ourselves a reputation which wouldn't be described as "well adjusted rolemodel" either, while we would be looked at with distain for such a choice as alot would see it as dishonorable. it likely wouldn't hurt us more than it would benefit us from the gossip which would talk about us.

3: yes, alot of spear types are used mostly when double handed, but, there is after all the choice in making this a sword killer, in the sense of having a tip able to catch a sword, and possibly lock it inside the spear tip. allowing proenza to keep it locked with one hand and shoot with the other. it would be a cheap trick, but it would be deadly against people who have only trained for sword combat.

4: the range of a spear would as well be quite the boon. for while it might mostly be a two handed weapon, the fact that it has much longer range, and therefor striking distance, together with the fact that it is a totally different way of fighting than what most nobles are normally up against, would make it a much bigger beast of a challenge compared to just another sword duel.


6: yes, we would likely still need a sword for if anybody was to wanna duel us equally in a civilized setting, but i do think the spear would mostly be used for actual death fights.

+ 5: a spear can be thrown, i just find that cool and unexpected

though, i will agree, i am not against using a sword either, it would still work perfectly fine, this was just my idea. originally i didn't "want" a spear either, i kept it ambiguous, to let newbQM choose for himself what he wanted iron to make. i just mentioned a spear as my personal thought at the time, and gave an example because the ramming part was kind of stuck in my thought pattern at the time.

i do think marc training us could definitely work, but it would also not be on par with the other nobles, who have had large parts of their lives to train sword combat, learn the different strategies and train the muscle reflexed needed for close quaters. alot of time which we most likely don't want to use since it can be 6 hours of training a day, for up to 5 months just to be able to defend ourselves, much less win a fight against anther noble.

i get where you are coming from, and im sorry if i have at any point sounded dismissive. i get ya, and i in fact fully understand that a spear has alot of downsides as well. i just think it would overall work better.

but otherwise thank you anon for yer input, i hadn't even thought about some of those things until i began writing.
>>
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>>5170729
and goodnight, hope ya get some good sleep anon :)

(pic unrelated, just another type of spear tip to add of possible ones from previous posts picture)
>>
>>5170419
Supporting cool cosmic nano sword that retains heat in the blade or something stupidly cool like that.
>>
You ponder for a moment; a few questions do come to mind.

“Tell me, can you make me a list of all imperial and comms guild facilities in this area of space, especially ones that have shipyard capacity ?”

“I can, yes. I suppose there is some use for that. The list will contain only publicly known facilities. It is possible that the facilities will be off the record, hidden in uninhabited systems. Perhaps they might have entire stations hidden by the very same technology.”

“Just prepare it. All it takes is for us to find a pattern. Ships going missing, cargo disappearing, manifests mismatching.”

“It could work. The task to sort through so much information would be herculean. And I am not helping.”

“Don’t you want to find out the secrets behind the stealth ship ?”

“Why yes. But I am also not wasting my time sorting through a stack of documents reaching the stratosphere. Find an army of mindless drones for such a menial task. My mind is best employed on endeavours befitting someone of my stature.”

You stare at him, feeling a creeping realization, your mind churns as you come up with a question.

“This might sound weird, but, you do not act like a human.”

“And ? You think I am some kind of an alien ?”

“I mean, kinda.”

Iron gazes upon you, unmoving, unflinching. He starts giggling, then laughing, and he finally begins roaring.

“I could see why you would think so, after all, I am far superior to you in mind, looks, and all things that matter.” He says in an amused voice. “But unfortunately, shockingly, we in fact share a common ancestor. Though I suppose it shows humanity’s capability in making a genius like me.” You can feel smugness in his voice. “And then an absolutely below average subject like you, closer to our previous evolutionary stage than most that I’ve seen.”

Perhaps embarrassed, or simply perhaps unwilling to continue this particular line of conversation, you try to shift towards a different topic.

“How about you make me a weapon ?”

“What do you want ?” Seemingly also unwilling to continue the talk, Iron asks you.

“Something ornate, as you might see, I am lacking a proper blade that most nobles have. You have any ideas ?”

“I can offer a few, yes. Though all of these will be expensive and require rare materials. As such, I can at most make a single product.”
>>
>>5171394

>”Your Avalanche magnum. I could modify it, make it far more ornate. Increase the calibre, ammo capacity, perhaps install a shock absorbent system, allowing baseline humans to fire it comfortably.”

>”Perhaps a short-barrelled carbine. Punching power and calibre of a marine’s rifle, but easily held by a baseline.”

>”We can go more traditional. A longsword. With a magnetised grip and an accompanying glove, preventing the loss of the weapon mid combat. I could also add some flair to it. Superheat the edges of the blade till the begin to glow.

>”Maybe a spear. Retractable segments, would make it look like nothing more than a piece of ornamentation before it expands to a height greater than that of your average man.”

>”A mace. A solid chunk of metal. Requiring a decent amount of strength to use. With the head being outfitted with reflector fields. Meaning that even a slight smash would confer as much force as a car hurling itself into a man.”

(If you want further details about the looks or the functions, feel free to ask.)
>>
>>5170137

>We are already transferring money to our family aren't we?

No, your father declined the offer.
>>
>>5171397

I guess I should mention that write ins are also accepted.
>>
>>5171397
>”Perhaps a short-barrelled carbine. Punching power and calibre of a marine’s rifle, but easily held by a baseline.”
>But unfortunately, shockingly, we in fact share a common ancestor. Though I suppose it shows humanity’s capability in making a genius like me.
So some kind of transhumanism group?
>>
>>5171397
>”We can go more traditional. A longsword. With a magnetised grip and an accompanying glove, preventing the loss of the weapon mid combat. I could also add some flair to it. Superheat the edges of the blade till the begin to glow.

Either this or upgrade our magnum, though I hope we can accomplish that later. I'm hoping to go for a Blackbeard look when boarding actions happen, but really this is just an excuse to spend more time with Marc than anything, and learn a new skill. We all know in our heart of hearts though that the mace is Proenza's spiritual weapon.
>>
>>5171397
>”We can go more traditional. A longsword. With a magnetised grip and an accompanying glove, preventing the loss of the weapon mid combat. I could also add some flair to it. Superheat the edges of the blade till the begin to glow.
We're going to dunk on these stupid nobles not by doing our own thing, but being straight up better than them. Starting with an 'ornamental' sword.
>>
>>5170931
Thank you for your thoughtful answer :)

>>5171397
>”We can go more traditional. A longsword. With a magnetised grip and an accompanying glove, preventing the loss of the weapon mid combat. I could also add some flair to it. Superheat the edges of the blade till the begin to glow.
So Iron is a brain in jar or should i say in IRON cage :p
>>
>>5171397
>>”Your Avalanche magnum. I could modify it, make it far more ornate. Increase the calibre, ammo capacity, perhaps install a shock absorbent system, allowing baseline humans to fire it comfortably.”
>>
>>5171397
>”Your Avalanche magnum. I could modify it, make it far more ornate. Increase the calibre, ammo capacity, perhaps install a shock absorbent system, allowing baseline humans to fire it comfortably.”

After all the work of differentiating ourselves from the more traditional captains in every aspect, are we going to go with the most basic option? In my opinion, improving the weapon that reminds us of our first absolute victory is a more correct option.
>>
>>5171397
>”Your Avalanche magnum. I could modify it, make it far more ornate. Increase the calibre, ammo capacity, perhaps install a shock absorbent system, allowing baseline humans to fire it comfortably.”
>>
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>>5171397
>”Your Avalanche magnum. I could modify it, make it far more ornate. Increase the calibre, ammo capacity, perhaps install a shock absorbent system, allowing baseline humans to fire it comfortably.”
Anything except the longsword.
>>
>>5171397
>>”We can go more traditional. A longsword. With a magnetised grip and an accompanying glove, preventing the loss of the weapon mid combat. I could also add some flair to it. Superheat the edges of the blade till the begin to glow.
>>
Carbine 1

Longsword 4

Magnum 4

Need a tie breaker.
>>
>>5171703
I vote sword.
>>
>>5171605
Like I said, I'm planning on going for more of a Blackbeard look, sword and gun in hand. Plus, Tets would be pleased by the sword and we can to some training/bonding time with Marc.
>>
“A sword, you can’t go wrong with a classic.”

“Very well, I shall begin the construction, now if I may be left alone, so as to not be distracted by the mere human in my, extra-terrestrial, presence.”

The fuckers never living this one down, is he ?

“I’m going, I’m going, just have it prepared as soon as possible, buckethead.”

Stepping out of the lab. You once more walk down the hallways, the peace and silence making you uneasy. It seems like you’ve gotten used to the heat of battle.

You eventually begin to purposelessly wander the station itself. The prolonged peace slowly driving you mad.

It takes about a month for your fleet to be brought up to action. The latest report from the Countess indicated the last vestiges of the Raisat Star League are to be wiped out in weeks to come. Victory is assured.

Finally, your comm beeps, and you see that your presence is immediately required in the briefing room. You never thought you’d be so happy to be called up for combat.

Arriving there, you are greeted by the presence of very few officers. The briefing is being carried out by a no name clerk that you’ve never seen before.

Taking a seat, you get comfortable. And the meeting begins.

“Gentlemen. As you know, most of our forces are currently locked away in combat. But great opportunities and dangers have presented themselves.”

“Firstly, the crushing defeat we had deliver onto the Emarians seems to have worked out better than expected. A civil war has broken out, between main four factions, and numerous smaller ones:

Of concerns are the “Royalists”, those who support the king and the royal family. They were in undisputed command for decades. They are strongly anti-imperial.

The second would be “Nobilitas”, revolting nobles against the main royal branch. They too are anti-imperials.

Third would be the “Republicans”, they wish to overthrow the monarchy as a whole, they too are anti-imperials.

Fourth, is the “Federalists”, moderates compared to the “Republicans” and most importantly, they are pro-imperial. They have also requested assistance in their struggle.

An opportunity like this rarely presents itself, as such, with the standing orders from the Countess, a force is being mobilized.”

You hear a few whispers as those close by begin discussing the situation.

“Secondly, the pirate threat is still persistent as ever. With the decrease of our forces, the pirates had become even more bold. They had outright hit one of our tribute convoys, ransacking all the valuable materials that were in route to Talax.”

Angry grumbles rise up between the few officers amongst you.

>”I’ll take the Emarians, I have some unsolved business there.”

>”The pirates have been around for too long, time to teach them a lesson.”

>Before deciding, I need more information. (Write in)

>(Write in)
>>
>>5172005
>>”The pirates have been around for too long, time to teach them a lesson.”

We keep ignoring the pirate missions and the problem keeps getting worse each time.
>>
>>5172005
>”I’ll take the Emarians, I have some unsolved business there.”

The Emarians just sound like more fun, and a better chance at glory.
>>
>>5172005
>Before deciding, I need more information.
What kind of valuable materials have the pirates been ransacking? And what reports do we have on the pirates strength?
>>
>>5172005
>”The pirates have been around for too long, time to teach them a lesson.”
Chucklefucks can’t even handle a couple pirates, looks like this is a job for us. Also they been rampant for way too long.
Wonder when the Countess will give us our good boy points.
>>
>>5172005
>”I’ll take the Emarians, I have some unsolved business there.”

Baron needs more corpses for his pyre.
>>
>>5172040
>>5172075
The Emarians are already practically defeated now. The pirates become more of a threat each time you ignore them.
>>
>>5172005
>”I’ll take the Emarians, I have some unsolved business there.”
>>
>>5172113
The Federalists need support now, otherwise we'll be defeated and it'll just be more effort to fight a United Kingdom than a divided one. Besides, the higher the pirates rise, the greater our glory will be when we eventually crush them.
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>>5172147
>Besides, the higher the pirates rise, the greater our glory will be when we eventually crush them.

We've been procrastinating it for three threads now.
>>
>>5172005
>>5172167
>”The pirates have been around for too long, time to teach them a lesson.”

three makes a charm or so, also fuck pirate scum or privateer scum for that matter
>>
>>5172167
Because we've been dealing with larger problems, not procrastinating. Plus, I'd honestly rather deal with a civil war than fucking pirates, it's more fun, more glory, and less of a ball ache, which is what I'm aiming for.
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>>5172050

>What kind of valuable materials have the pirates been ransacking?

"Processed ores, mainly. Enough to construct an entire battle detachment."

>And what reports do we have on the pirates strength?

"Exact numbers unknown, but with the increase in frequency of the attacks, we can assume that there are multiple, fast moving groupings.

Though the group that hit the convoy had seem to have excessive firepower, the pirates also made sure to scrub all of our blackboxes."
>>
>>5172856
The pirates become a larger problem each time we ignore them whereas the star league is now on its last legs.
>>
>>5172005
>”The pirates have been around for too long, time to teach them a lesson.”

Enough, the time to deal with this problem has long passed, I always said that this would always be the worst mission, but since there is no one else competent enough to solve this "Caralho", let's solve it once and for all.

QM could you give us a summary of the latest operations against the pirates? Like, who led them, how much strength did they have, and what strategies did they use? And the result in enemy casualties? I know they failed but it gives us an idea of what not to do.
Of course, besides the routes that the pitatas use the most and any information we have about their base, after so many attacks, it's not possible that our intelligence doesn't know their whereabouts, right?
>>
>>5172900
The pirates are a nuisance, but the biggest threat is still the Emarians unifying against the Countess, and you know if we ignore the Emarians the Federalists will be wiped out and we'd lose our chance at dealing with the Emarian problem while they are divided and fighting one another. If we fight and win against the Emarians, we win a kingdom with all their systems behind us. If we fight the pirates, all we'd be doing is focusing on a nuisance while we lose the opportunity to decisively defeat the Emarians, which is the bigger threat.
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>>5172909
>QM could you give us a summary of the latest operations against the pirates?
>"Exact numbers unknown, but with the increase in frequency of the attacks, we can assume that there are multiple, fast moving groupings.
>Though the group that hit the convoy had seem to have excessive firepower, the pirates also made sure to scrub all of our blackboxes."

You're also making a big mistake if you think defeating with pirates is better than defeating a kingdom, but it wouldn't be Proenza's first or last one. Just make sure we have other task forces backing us up this time, I don't want a repeat of that last mission where we kept bleeding from Stalin's wave assaults, alright?
>>
>>5172005
>”I’ll take the Emarians, I have some unsolved business there.”
The way I see it the pirates require a campaign all of their own at the moment, best to finish the Emrians for good.
>>
>>5172005
>”The pirates have been around for too long, time to teach them a lesson.”
>>
>>5172923
These pirates are no longer a minor threat, after so long their forces have grown too much not to mention that they are causing real damage to our direct territory, something that the invasion of the neighboring kingdom cannot do. My main point is that if we don't participate in the intervention it will still happen, if we don't destroy these pirates they will continue to be a problem. For God's sake, the last time we heard from them the Countess offered us a special reward for getting rid of them, they're definitely a threat that needs to be destroyed ASAP.
>>
>>5173008
My main point is that the intervention is doomed to fail without us, and a united enemy kingdom is still a bigger threat to us than a pirate force.
>>
>>5172005
>”I’ll take the Emarians, I have some unsolved business there.”
>>
>>5172005
>”The pirates have been around for too long, time to teach them a lesson.”
>>
Pirates 6

Emarians 5

Writing.
>>
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You raise your hand and state. “I’ll take the pirates. Transfer all data about them to my command.”

With that, you rise and depart the chamber. The matters here no longer a concern to you, a privilege you throw at the face of all the nobles gathered, as someone that is a direct vassal to the territory and with you master absent, you can finally enjoy what most blue bloods did.

Returning to your ship, you start to sift through the information and learn a few facts of import.

Firstly – Hit and run, as well as feigned retreats, are the preferred tactics of the pirates. They will only ever seriously engage if the surroundings allow for ambushes or places that would assist in disengagement.

Secondly – The pirates are loosely organized, each grouping having their own “chief”, personal rivalries and competitions are common.

Thirdly – Frigates are the most common vessels, destroyers usually being command ships. No light cruisers have ever been observed. However, Tristan’s (The presumed leader of “Tristan’s lads”) grouping has never been observed. The possibility of a heavier command vessel is high.

Fourthly – It has been observed that the pirates never take on a fair engagement.

Fifthly – As the engagements went on, the pirates ship quality continuously increased. While the crews are still rowdy and undisciplined, the vessels themselves are to standard.

Sixthly – Outposts had been found and annihilated by previous commanders in charge of dealing with the pirates, but no main base had been located.

This rather extensive list of information had been gathered thanks to the blood shed by your predecessors. With the pirates being more than happy to give territory. They would simply disengage from any large force threatening them, move around them and proceed to simply ransack the rear, living off of supplies captured along the way. By the time a proper response could be taken, the rear, presumedly secured, will have a new outpost, or a grouping of pirates with supplies meet up with the raiding force and simply depart. The only way to prevent this is to split up, but that is when ambushed would begin and slowly whittle down imperial forces.

The reason for this excellent coordination can be chalked up to sensors frigates that have been noticed on system’s edges. Nothing more than a rough and crude modification on pre-existing hull. Oversized engines with tons of surveillance equipment allows the pirates unprecedented coordination and exploration. Chasing the frigates down had proven itself to be a great annoyance, as their superior speed and plentiful reserves allow them to drift amongst the darkness in between the stars as long they need before extracting themselves.

With all of this laid before you. How will you deal with this headache ?
>>
>>5173121

>Split the forces. Patrol the nearby uninhabited systems. (How?)

>Concentrate your main fleet in one singular ball of death. Maybe you’ll be able to catch the pirates of guard.

>Perhaps set up a system of runners like the pirates did ? (What ships ?)

Another idea comes to you. Though many hate your guts, you simply need more forces, perhaps you can cajole, bribe, and threaten some highnoses to help you ? Question is, who and how ?

(Can pick more than one. Each one is its own 1d100 to see who you manage to acquire. Named characters can be interacted with separately from the rolls.)

>Everyone loves money. (Will spend influence)

>Time to work your silver tongue…you have one, right ? (Persuasion)

>You are the knight of the Countess, and you are defending her fiefdom, and these lazyasses will do what you say. (Intimidation.)

>It might cost more than you like, but a favour, no questions asked, exchanged for a favour, is often times more valuable than an ocean of cash.

>Perhaps there is someone you know ? After all, they might be willing to help.
>>
>>5173123
>Concentrate your main fleet in one singular ball of death. Maybe you’ll be able to catch the pirates of guard.
The pirates are using the defeat in detail strategy. The way to prevent it is by not splitting up.
>Everyone loves money. (Will spend influence)
>>
>>5173121
>Concentrate your main fleet in one singular ball of death. Maybe you’ll be able to catch the pirates of guard.

>Perhaps there is someone you know ? After all, they might be willing to help.
have alpizar join us in taking on the pirates, splitting up into two groups which scour local space for any and all supply depot's. but staying within a close enough distance that each of us would be able to help the other in case of ambushes or planned attacks.

if anything, we could even mention the promise the countess made, about possibly getting her military time reduced so she could get back sooner, by splitting the wish between the two of us. that is, if she wouldn't just be on board with the more relaxed nature of hunting pirates instead of being on the frontline getting shot at constantly like she was just before we arrived.
>>
>>5173123
>>Concentrate your main fleet in one singular ball of death. Maybe you’ll be able to catch the pirates of guard.

>Perhaps there is someone you know ? After all, they might be willing to help.
Yes we should ask help from Rasia, as she most likely has done patrol mission against sector pirates
>>
>>5173176
+1
>>
>>5173123
>Concentrate your main fleet in one singular ball of death. Maybe you’ll be able to catch the pirates of guard.

It honestly sounds like most of these pirates would've been dealt with when our advanced frigate production came fully online.

>Time to work your silver tongue…you have one, right ? (Persuasion)
>Perhaps there is someone you know ? After all, they might be willing to help.
>You are the knight of the Countess, and you are defending her fiefdom, and these lazyasses will do what you say. (Intimidation.)

Might as well try all the cost-saving options.
>>
>>5173176
+1
>>
>>5173123
>Concentrate your main fleet in one singular ball of death. Maybe you’ll be able to catch the pirates of guard.
We capture one ship and find the location of a base, we're set. All we have to do is find their locations and destroy them, there's no need to actually engage the pirates.

>Time to work your silver tongue…you have one, right ? (Persuasion)
>Perhaps there is someone you know ? After all, they might be willing to help.
Alpizar for sure, any more likely won't be necessary. If not her then maybe Todoroff or Maluhialani.
>>
>>5173123
>Time to work your silver tongue…you have one, right ? (Persuasion)

>You are the knight of the Countess, and you are defending her fiefdom, and these lazyasses will do what you say. (Intimidation.)

>Perhaps there is someone you know ? After all, they might be willing to help.
ask two tooth about the state of who or whatever returned and what he thinks of it. also ask if he knows how to probe for camouflaged repairberths/void docks and/or if he has some toys he would like tested.

>>5173505
>>5173226
but arent all the knights in emiraian space right now? except us obviously
>>
>>5174158
No, they're finishing up the Star League. They are on opposite sides of the map, with the Star League only encompassing the 4 star systems.
>>
>>5173123
I have a question, QM. Do we know anything about the captains, crews and marines of our new frigates? How experienced are they?
>>
>>5174185
If they signed up to fight with the Ghoul, they're clearly nuts. So, we're in good company.
>>
Ball O doom 7

Bribery 1

Contacts 7

Diplomacy 3

"Diplomacy" 2

Okay.

Big ball wins

Getting Alpi on it wins

Nothing else reaches the halfway mark.

Writing.
>>
With a basic plan of action forming in your mind, you realize that you will need some extra help. And on this wide station there is only one person capable of giving you some assistance – Rasia.

You are able to find her relatively quickly as she’s looking over her fleet on one of the observation decks.

“Combat ships tend to look as beautiful as the stars.” You draw her attention to yourself.

Giving you quick glance over, she simply nods before turning back to the window. “For those born for war, I suppose they do.”

“You still want to retire as fast as possible ?” You question.

“Of course. I wish to return and cradle my child.” A small melancholic smile spreads across Rasia’s face.

“Then I will have to unfortunately ask you to go to war, hopefully one last time.”

“What do you mean ?”

“The pirates, they have grown far too powerful. The Countess did promise favour to whoever is able to locate their base. And now it is my turn to take a shot at it. If we can do it, I am certain that you can shave off years, if not the entirety of your service time.”

“Risky. The pirates had done in far more experienced and capable captains than me.”

“That’s because they had not encountered me. No pirate will get away from me, you know my record, and you know that it is true.”

Taking a deep breath whilst pondering, Alpizar finally opens her mouth. “Okay, I shall join you. Hopefully following a ghoul into the dark will not result in my death.”

You chuckle. “I see the damned thing spread.”

“With most officers gone, you are the hottest piece of gossip around.”

Damned sloths, they clearly lack work if they have the time to pointlessly gossip.

“Then how about we turn those talks to our triumph ?”

“That would definitely be preferable. I was getting exhausted hearing speculations about your dental care.” Throwing out her final statement Rasia departs the room. Leaving only you, silence, and the vastness of space.

With that matter of business solved, you busy yourself for the following days. Simply organizing your force for a long-term engagement. The last thing you need is to run out of food, oxygen, water, and fuel out there, dozens of lightyears away from civilization.

But before that, Iron once more calls upon you, this time bearing good news – your blade is finished.

Entering the lab, you see Iron already awaiting you with a tarp over one of his work tables.

“Ah, brave Captain, dealer with aliens, good to see that you’ve come.” He just has to ruin the moment, doesn’t he. “Come, let me show you the beauty of creation.”

With those words, he pulls back the tarp, revealing a sword, a scabbard, and a gauntlet.

Taking the longsword into his hand, Iron activates it:
>>
>>5174496

The outer edges of the blade glow a bright red and yellow, you can feel heat emanating from it. The colouring seems to match well with the colouring of the blade itself, whilst you would expect a dull grey, Iron had instead painted it black, forming a sharp contrast between the two colourings.

The cross-guard too is painted black, with the detailing making it look like there are two hands stretching out from its centre. The occasional droplets of red make the cross-guard look bloody, even if it has never tasted vitae.

The handle is also black, with grey dull struts jumping out from it, the magnets you assume. Overall, it makes the handle appear almost like a cudgel, brutal and effective.

The pommel depicts a white human skull, with red tears pouring out of its empty sockets.

The scabbard comparatively to the blade itself looks rather dull. With dark colourings and red-gold reinforcements.

The gauntlet meanwhile also appears to be simpler, though still painted black. You do also notice that the thinness of the plate and the advance materials were made in mind so as to not interfere with the nimbleness of one’s fingers. The palm itself also has the similar struts protruding, ever so slightly from the surface.

“Come, I have prepared some practise dummies.” Noticing that your attention is no longer drawn to your new equipment, Iron says.

And after a quick test, you realize that Iron delivers. An old suit of power armour, cut cleanly through, you were unable to feel any resistance from the metal. The handle firmly locked onto your gauntlet also allowed you to avoid a few unfortunate moments, where do to your lack of experience you nearly flung the longsword outwards.

After finishing the checks, you turn to Iron. “I’ve gotta ask, why so much macabre ?”

“I do wonder why I would invoke such imagery mister ghoul.”

Those assholes again !

“I simply made it in regards to your current reputation. If you desire so, I can quickly rework it. It is mere cosmetics after all.”

>Change something. (What ?)

>”No, it’ll do.”
>>
>>5174503
>”No, it’ll do.”
but make sure he is grumbling on the way out just for another laugh
>>
>>5174503
>>”No, it’ll do.”
>>
>>5174503
>”No, it’ll do.”
>>
>>5174503
Can Iron hack ships mid combat?
>>
>>5174503
>Change something
>Change the Pommel to a laughing skull.
We laugh in the face of death and death laughs back.
>>
>>5175089
I sort of like that, we should keep it as an option for social events.
>>
>>5174503
>”No, it’ll do.”

Itll be fine for most.


I just hope Alpi wont be put off. If she really seeks to retire after this campaign this may be her best option. Marriage with Proenza will secure her children's future even if we die, and if we don't maybe our suicidal impulses may be tempered. Something to come home to, how new for our destitute commoner?
>>
>>5175306
As much as I love Alpi, I think the Countess is more of our style. I also bet that she may just get off on the idea of us being reputed as the 'Ghoul' as well, which works in our favor.
>>
>>5175312
what makes you say so? while i understand she would be the type to not be deterred from the "ghoul" aspect, i wouldn't think she would just go and marry a lowborn such as us, even if our actions speak highly, the fact that we aren't even close to her level of noble blood would seem to be a hurdle she wouldn't be jumping head-over heals to achieve.since she most likely have ALOT of possible marriage options given to her through all the noble houses which would want to marry into such a highly esteemed family.
>>
>>5175482
It’s just a feeling, I think she’ll appreciate the bloodthirsty and ruthless undertones of our command style, as well as our results. It’s more about interest and passion than cutthroat politics.
>>
>>5175493
so, yer want our request from the countess to be a kiss?
>>
>>5175520
That certainly sounds like Proenza‘s style, doesn’t it?
>>
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“No, it’ll do. Though I do have one idea for later, but for now, everything’s fine.”

Turning around to leave, you recall something else. “Hey, could you hack enemy ships ?”

Amused, Iron replies. “Had you bought my strategic combat package; I could do so, yes.”

Cheapass rusted bucket.

You murmur before leaving the lab.

Reaching the bridge, you take your seat and turn your head towards the XO. “Tetreault, is everything prepared ?”

“All ships are in place and ready. Lady-Captain Rasia Alpizar is also at our flank and prepared to depart.”

“Good. Helmsman, full burn.”

With that, you can feel Gs exerted upon you as the vessel accelerates, only for them to be quickly cut off as all systems kick in to full gear.

Spending a couple of weeks, you finally arrive at Jed, the precipice of civilized space. This is pirate territory, perhaps a few territories exist out there, but they are either incapable of fighting back, or they are on the pirate’s side.

Upon your scanners, you also see a small fleet made up of frigates and destroyers, all bearing the IFFs of House Roy. Around 4 dozen frigates and a dozen destroyers in total.

“Sir, incoming comms request from the fleet.” Chirps up the comms officer.

“Put it through.”

Quickly, a voice begins to boom. “Knight-Captain Proenza ? This is Commander Sihr Pavlovich. I and my fellow commanders are in command of patrolling the surrounding area. I also received instructions to move in after you and set up outposts to further extend your fuel range.”

“Pleasure meeting you, Commander. I look forward to our cooperation.”

“I too, sir. I would like to make something clear however:

We are a second line force, most of the men here hadn’t seen much actual combat, and we are stretched thin.

The pirates are also known to hit our own outposts we set up out there, I will not needlessly send my men to their deaths, if we are overwhelmed, we will retreat. I will endeavour to send a runner to you, but that is all I can promise.”

A good head ? Or cowardice and insubordination ? Either way, I can see why most expeditions failed.

“That’ll be all commander. I will contact you when I need anything else.” You say unimpressed.

“Good luck, sir.” Calls out the voice before cutting off.

You start looking over the map, and you realize – this is going to be annoying.

Due to your decision of centralization, your fleet will always move together, unless stated otherwise.

Current jump range: 6

>Choose where to move your fleet.

>Choose where to move Alpipzar’s fleet.

>Set up outpost (White square on system) WARNING: THE MORE OUTPOST, THE HIGHER THEIR DETECTION CHANCE.

>(Write in)
>>
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Current forces under your command.
>>
>>5175817
>Set an outpost at Jed.
It has the most connections to destroyed outposts
>Have alpi patrol our already controlled systems
A good way to slow the enemy down and us to be a quick response team.
>Start investigating the know systems around Jed
>>
>>5175844
Well thought.

Support.
>>
>>5175817
Send our fleet and Alpizar's fleet north-west. There are four systems in that region with no red squares.
>>
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>>5175817
>>(Write in)
make alpizar and proenza split up in such a way they are only one to two star systems away from each other, and set up the fuel depots when we get there. that way we will continue outwards from there to try and cut off any pirates from leaving towards the kingdoms (will flesh plan out more when we've gone through these areas, don't wanna plan TOO far ahead)
>>
>>5175817
>>5175899
Supporting
>>
>>5175844
Seems reasonable to me +1
>>
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>>5175817
Our goal must not be to defeat or head off the pirate forces that come to destroy the outposts, it must be to trap them. Engaging in a game of whack a mole will only serve to bog us down and weary our forces, and it'll take too long to progress. To that end we should set up an outpost in an isolated cluster, withdraw our forces to block entry out of the region, and wait for them to attack. We can then push in and create a huge dragnet until they have one system left to hide in, in which we will force a battle and hopefully capture some to reveal the location of their bases. Cluster 1 is the best zone for a trap, but Cluster 2 has a greater possibility of the pirates appearing since it's further away from Jed.
>>
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>>5176292
Alternatively, we can expand our scope in Cluster 2 and make an even bigger trap out of it.
Red Crosses: Two friendly fleets blocking enemy forces from leaving and entering. Probably Alpizar and Pavlovich, they can support each other in the event one gets attacked.

Green arrows: Likely pirate movement.

Blue Cross: Where our fleet will move after the outpost has been attacked. Once in position this will effectively seal the entire cluster, and our concern will then fall to ensuring the pirates don't slip past our fleet. We can then move from system to system, tightening the net until a battle is forced and we have an opportunity to capture the enemy for intel. My only concern is that the pirates will have a bigger force than expected and threaten Alpi or Pavlovich, but in that case they can retreat to the two systems behind them and give us more time to get closer, while also greatly reducing the zones we have to occupy.
>>
>>5175817
Fucking ballache, I tell you. I assume the lighter shades are our controlled systems, yea? By jump range, do you mean within 6 systems before we're forced to head back, or 6 in total, making our effective range 3? I also assume controlled systems don't have resupply outposts?

I suggest the piecemeal approach. Reestablish outpost above Jed, have Alpi cut the exit above it, and we burn them out of each system until we clear the cluster. Rinse and repeat for each cluster
>>
>>5175899
Sounds good, supported
>>
i guess we are gonna need a tie breaker if someone would be so gracious as to do such.
______________________________________________________________________

btw, a few questions QM

first, the materials needed for such as the sword are, as i can pressume *quite* rare, where would we find more if possible?

second, iron of course asked for any and all reactor parts he could get ahold of, why? is it just because they contain rare materials or is it because of special tech parts inside them?

third, why is there no capital ships out here on the fringe? is it just because of logistical problems keeping such a thing repaired, or is there simply something that stops something like a dreadnaught from coming out here?

and lastly, could we possibly write back to our dad? i really wish that we could at least give him a heads-up about our luck getting up the chain. maybe even visit him at some point in the near future?
also >>5169604
well yes and no, it would be a good thing in that sense yes. buuut
honestly the reason i want us to have a sister is because i want somone which proenza can go to for emotional support while on the move, i expect him to NOT fare greatly with the politicking that comes when we gain higher and higher rank. so a few hugs would be good.
also it would be cute having a younger sister to impress with all of the things we do. being told what we did every time we came back from battle.
>>
>>5177419
You want a sister for pretty much the same reason I want Proenza to marry. If his only love is ambition I fear his end is a cold death in space.
>>
>>5177507
well, then it would need to be someone like alpizar, since as of yet, any other woman we have met are...blood thirsty, or straight up anti-social. alpi is the only one not to some degree autistic from their emotional coldness when it comes to affection.
>>
>>5177419

>first, the materials needed for such as the sword are, as i can pressume *quite* rare, where would we find more if possible?

Most high-frequency knifes are usually made out steel or other metal alloy mixtures, that are quite common, but because of that, their cutting power is much lower than proper noble blades.

Noble blades are made out of, usually heavy material alloys (They also have a tendency to be treated against radiation), because of this, the materials are rare and expensive, but they cut through most power armour like butter. If you somehow do find some of the prerequisite materials, they would be worth a decent hunk of cash.

>second, iron of course asked for any and all reactor parts he could get ahold of, why? is it just because they contain rare materials or is it because of special tech parts inside them?

Both. He also needed actual physical parts to propel his research faster.

>third, why is there no capital ships out here on the fringe? is it just because of logistical problems keeping such a thing repaired, or is there simply something that stops something like a dreadnaught from coming out here?

They are immensely logistically expensive to maintain. Battleships and dreadnoughts guzzle fuel like nothing else. Their base movement is 1. For patrol duties against subspacer nations, who can usually field nothing more than a couple of heavy cruisers. It is a massive endeavour and overkill, not to mention that moving your battleships away from the main frontlines against other ducal houses would leave them horribly exposed. And finally, they require massive drydocks to maintain and upkeep.

>and lastly, could we possibly write back to our dad?

Yes. If someone writes it out and enough anons support it, you can send it off.

>maybe even visit him at some point in the near future?

Once this arc ends.

Will post update tomorrow, at some time.
>>
>>5177507
>>5177569
Proenza really needs an emotional outlet because he really will ram himself to death one day. Don’t get me wrong it will be fucking glorious but I rather delay that end for now.
>>
>>5175844 This one

>>5175899 and this one

They both have the same amount of votes, I need a tie breaker, fi there is none, I will roll a 1d2 in an hour.
>>
>>5178297

>>5175899
Voting to tie break
>>
>>5175844
Support.
>>
>>5175899
Extend Proenza's patrol to that one unattended system just below Roks, and I'll support this. Aggressive action is Proenza's style.

>>5175844
Sorry lad, I just don't want to spend 20 updates clearing the pirates system by system.
>>
>>5178347
yep, that was what the rest of the plan would include. i just hadnt drawn it all out because well

most plans don't survive contact with the enemy, so i would draw further onto it as things went along.
>>
>>5175899

This one wins.

Please give me 1d100 best of 3 for MC

And give me a 1d100 best of 1 for Alpi
>>
Rolled 13 (1d100)

>>5178356
>>
Rolled 26 (1d100)

>>5178356
PLEASEPLEASEPLEASE
rolling for alpizar
>>
Rolled 56 (1d100)

>>5178356
Rolling for Proenza
>>
Rolled 23 (1d100)

>>5178356
>>
You spend a few hours agonizing over the best patrol routes, what would cover the most area, whilst still providing safety for both groups, which locations would be the best ones for supply depots. Eventually you come up with one.

You transfer the route to both Alpizar and Pavlovich. Affirmatives ping and you begin to depart the Jed system.

Finally, about 6 days later, you arrive at an uninhabited star system, and you quickly realize why a pirate outpost was located there. The system houses nothing but a single, lonesome red dwarf, barely illuminating your surroundings. Other than a few isolated comets and far away asteroids, the system is a bust. Still, setting up an outpost here would allow the sensors to easily pick up any hostile fleets entering the system.

Spending nothing more than a couple of hours, simply running the scanners just in case, you swing the fleet around the dwarf, allowing the gravity to slingshot you before shifting dimensions.

Another 6 days later, you hop into a star system. You are greeted by the sight of a beautiful trinary star system. Two red dwarfs alongside one yellow dwarf. A thing that catches your note however, is the fact that the system is filled with a massive amount of debris. Asteroids, space dusts, worlds in the process of formation. The sheer amount of interference is wracking havoc upon your sensors, not to mention another unfortunate fact. The system is partially engulfed by a nebula.

As good place to hide as any, at least by your reckoning.

>Do a quick once over with your fleet. Maybe the pirates won’t risk setting up so relatively close to your territories anymore.

>A systematic approach. Sweep the system as one force. It will be slow, and there’s a chance that smaller ships will be able to get out of dodge, but it is safe.

>Split the force, move fast and dirty, if there’s someone there, maybe you’ll catch with their pants down.

>Split the force, move slow and meticulous. If there’s someone there, you’ll find them. Though if the pirates are in hiding here, they might hit an isolated formation.

>(Write in)
>>
>>5178533
>Split the force, move slow and meticulous. If there’s someone there, you’ll find them. Though if the pirates are in hiding here, they might hit an isolated formation.
>>
>>5178533
>>A systematic approach. Sweep the system as one force. It will be slow, and there’s a chance that smaller ships will be able to get out of dodge, but it is safe.
>>
>>5178533
>>A systematic approach. Sweep the system as one force. It will be slow, and there’s a chance that smaller ships will be able to get out of dodge, but it is safe.
>>
>>5178533
>A systematic approach. Sweep the system as one force. It will be slow, and there’s a chance that smaller ships will be able to get out of dodge, but it is safe.
>>
>>5178533
>A systematic approach. Sweep the system as one force. It will be slow, and there’s a chance that smaller ships will be able to get out of dodge, but it is safe.
>>
Slow and steady wins the race, as they say. How valid that statement is remains to be seen, but you hope that it works out.

You begin a slow, methodical sweep as one large organized force. You endeavour to make sure that once you have to send out your frigates to look into the various nooks and crannies around the system, your full force would not be far behind.

With the system choke full with hidey-holes, this approach proves to be mind numbing. You spend hours moving at a turtle’s pace.

Eventually however, your sensors officer turns to you.

“Captain, power signatures at system edge.’

“Details ?”

“From what I am reading, it seems to be a frigate’s signature.”

“A single frigate ?”

“As far as I can tell, sir.”

“Anything else ?”

Unwilling to commit your force to the first option presented, you question.

“Minor energy readings across the system. Presumed natural energy of the system’s formation. Though I did notice a pattern here, sir.”

The officer quickly brings up his readings.

“They match the energy readings of the more active zones around, but that’s the issue, I would expect some deviation as time passes, but this remains the same. It could very well just be a natural process, captain.”

>”Prepare the force, we’re going to the edge.”

>”Send the coordinates to the helmsman, we will follow the track.”

>”Why not do both ? Tetreault, split the force.” (How ?)

>”All of these could be nothing more than distractions, keep looking.”
>>
Sorry about the lack of updates as of late. Been a bit busy at the moment. Hopefully, I will be able to pick up the pace next week.
>>
>>5180299
>>”Prepare the force, we’re going to the edge.”
>>
>>5180299
>”All of these could be nothing more than distractions, keep looking.”
>>
>>5180299
>”Why not do both ? Tetreault, split the force.” (How ?)

Our light cruisers and some escorts should investigate the frigate signal, the rest will investigate the coordinates.
>>
>>5180358
Support. We're a big enough force now that separating shouldn't be too major an issue.
>>
>>5180299
>”Prepare the force, we’re going to the edge.”

>>5180358
>>5180429
so all it took was a minor appearance of something small to throw out our plan about never splitting up?
>>
>>5180299
>”Prepare the force, we’re going to the edge.”

Have Iron assess the system energy readings.

>>5180824
I assume not splitting the force was more strategic than tactical. We won't be able to swiftly reinforce our besieged forces if we're literal systems away, right?
>>
“Were moving to the edge, reposition the fleet.” You deliver the order.

With prey clearly visible before you, the fleet moves rapidly. The closer to the edge you get, the easier it becomes to manoeuvre for your larger ships. However, an uncomfortable feeling sets in your stomach, as you see that the energy display upon your tactical readout is unmoving. Option activated because of your “Skilled” trait.

“Helmsman, cut burn. Sensors, activate all of our monitoring systems, directed them to the system’s stars.”

A few tense minutes pass, but finally, the sensors officer calls out. “Captain, faint readings converging upon the stars, and rising. Presumed hostile forces preparing for dimension shift.”

“Sensors. System edge contact ?”

“Still unmoving, sir.”

“Tetreault, can we intercept ?”

“Our frigates could reach the enemy in time. But they would be unsupported for an extended amount of time.”

“Sensors, what are the readings saying ?”

“Hard to tell, but at least a dozen plus. Seeing as how they managed to dodge us with minimal engine power, at most, the enemy could have destroyers present.”

>”It is worth the risk. Send our frigates, we cannot allow the pirates to escape and regroup.”

>”I am not pointlessly risking my men. We continue moving as one, hopefully we can track them down out of the system.”

>(Write in)
>>
>>5180982
>”It is worth the risk. Send our frigates, we cannot allow the pirates to escape and regroup.”
>>
>>5180982
>”It is worth the risk. Send our frigates, we cannot allow the pirates to escape and regroup.”
>>
>>5180982
>>”I am not pointlessly risking my men. We continue moving as one, hopefully we can track them down out of the system.”
>>
>>5180982
>>”It is worth the risk. Send our frigates, we cannot allow the pirates to escape and regroup.”
>>
>>5180982
>”I am not pointlessly risking my men. We continue moving as one, hopefully we can track them down out of the system.”
We're not risking our fancy schmancy new frigates without destroyer support.
>>
Okay, sending frigates wins.

1d100 best of 3
>>
Rolled 69 (1d100)

>>5181618
>>
Rolled 17 (1d100)

>>5181618
>>
Rolled 73 (1d100)

>>5181618
>>
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“Comms, signal all frigates. Have them move at full burn. Intercept the enemy and hold them down until we arrive.”

“Yes, sir.” Responds the officer.

You watch as the frigates break off from the main force and begin moving rapidly. You can only hope that your men will hold their own.

------------------------------
(POV shift: You are Lord-Commander Payat Teigon, as the most senior officer, you are in command.)

Losing destroyer command and being given frigate captaincy would have been viewed as an insult, but you do not care much for it. You are unaware how Datz feels about her new command, but you suppose that having more ships under her command made it acceptable.

It now remains to be seen if she will obey your command, which you doubt. It is best to give simple minded ones simple orders. Not like you have the authority to punish her worth anything.

Ducking and weaving across the terrain, you make good speed. The incessant pinkish all around you seems to be making your men uncomfortable. The equivalent of fog in rough terrain whilst moving at maximum speed is straining their nerves.

Your ship’s shields being rocked by dust clouds cause the vessel to rattle as you dodge yet another asteroid.

Despite all of this, you have finally entered visual range of the closest star. And just as the Captain predicted, your sensors officer reports readings.

“Sir, unidentified forces detected around the star, they seem to have caught wind of us and are seemingly starting to rally. We caught them before they could safely shift.” Your officer systematically reports.

>”Let each command pick their foes as they will, our job is not victory, we are merely to delay.”

>”Try to rally the force around you and overwhelm one group. Undoubtedly, we will be caught in a crossfire, but we will also cause serious damage.”

>(Write in)
>>
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>>5181743

>Reaver-class destroyer. 250 meters in length. A crew complement of 200. 3 railgun turrets and a single M.A.G. cannon, the Reaver used to be a decently powerful destroyer for its relatively cheap production cost. 8 laser turrets, 4 mounted atop and 4 at the bottom also allowed it to defend itself from most missile-based weaponry at the time. Its small size compared to its powerful engines made the Reaver a flanker to be feared. Now however, the vessel class is nearly 80 years old. Most ships in service are either ancient relics or top to bottom modified and reworked ships uniquely modified to suit the captain’s needs. By this point in time, the Reaver is primarily used by private enterprises or pirate organizations, as the ship’s successor class – Raider – is capable of utterly annihilating its predecessor with ease.
>>
>>5181743
How does environment effect combat eg. Clouds and asteroids
>>
>>5181761

Bigger ships move slower, firing accurately at longer distances is harder.

If you want big ships to move faster, you risk damaging them as they are unable to maneuver away from an asteroid.

Good example being, you rapidly try to dodge a volley of accurate missiles, but you end up slam head first into an asteroid.
>>
>>5181764

Should note that nebula also horrifically fuck with sensor readings.
>>
>>5181743
>>”Try to rally the force around you and overwhelm one group. Undoubtedly, we will be caught in a crossfire, but we will also cause serious damage.”

Rush the group closest to our force. Have one half of our force go left around the asteroid and the other half go right around the asteroid.
>>
>>5181743
>”Let each command pick their foes as they will, our job is not victory, we are merely to delay.”
>>
>>5181743
>”Let each command pick their foes as they will, our job is not victory, we are merely to delay.”

At least one person in our fleet must have a high will to live.
>>
>>5181743
\>”Try to rally the force around you and overwhelm one group. Undoubtedly, we will be caught in a crossfire, but we will also cause serious damage.”
They outnumber us, so our goal is to ensure we do not get overwhelmed. Target the topmost group, they've been caught against the asteroid field and have their backs against a wall.
>>
>>5181743
>>”Try to rally the force around you and overwhelm one group. Undoubtedly, we will be caught in a crossfire, but we will also cause serious damage.”
Enemy facing frigates will get delay more and will make easier to our main force
>>
>>5181743
>losing destroyer command and being given frigate captaincy would have been viewed as an insult, but you do not care much for it. You are unaware how Datz feels about her new command
Probably a hint we should give Datz a destroyer again guys...
>>
Rally the force 3

Each command pick 2

Rallying wins.

1d100 best of 3
>>
Rolled 91 (1d100)

>>5182521
>>
Rolled 5 (1d100)

>>5182521
>>
Rolled 85 (1d100)

>>5182521

>>5182535
Why did we effectively choose to keep the d20 crits override system again?
>>
>>5182539
Because the crits make this a wild ride. I would be in favor of having a DT that if we hit or surpass, it overrides the critfails into something that doesn't gank us almost every turn.
>>
honestly with how high the rest of our roll's are, i think there should be like a "crit fails below 5 will cancel the otherwise highest number" so like here it would destroy the 91, while keeping the 85.
if we only roll 2dice, and one crit fails, then we roll a third one, and if the new roll is below that becomes the new one since the previous highest gets destroyed, otherwise the new rolled dice get's destroyed

so like

roll 2d100
85, 4
roll 1d100
if > than 85, the new roll get's destroyed, like if it was 90.
if 85 is greater than the new roll, then the new roll becomes the new final number.

this way if we already have low rolls, then it isn't unfair and will still give us shitty cases, but won't absolutely fuck over otherwise great results in large number rolls. especially since this scales easily with more dice rolls, like 10 dice rolls.
>>
>>5182521
That's got to be what, the 5th or 6th crit fail thus far? This is getting seriously annoying.


>>5182631
Yeah, this might be a good idea. These goddamn critfails are always when we roll high too, it's infuriating.
>>
>>5182631
that may be a better system otherwise we have the same results rolling d20's
>>
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Opening the group comm, you call out to your fellow officers. “All forces, rally around me. We’re to-“

Your words get stuck in your throat as you watch Datz’s detachment move without orders at full burn, entering a micro meteor and space dust cloud. It will definitely help against missile barrages, but the problem with that is the fact that the enemy is thinking the same.

With her group engaged, you are left with only one target, the destroyer charging straight at you.

She will have to be reprimanded. Hopefully the Captain, or the naval board will deliver a proper punishment.

Firing off your missile, a decent amount is shot down, but enough also strikes the destroyer. You frown. The damage reading is not as all encompassing as you had hoped. It seems that the vessel’s armour had been upgraded.

With that going on, you wonder whether or not you should send the test group to assist Datz, before your sensors officer informs you of a changing situation.

“Sir, enemy forces on route to encircle Lady-Commander Datz.”

“What is her situation ?” You question.

“She seems to be equally trading with the pirates, sir.”

“Comms, have test group 19 get into position to either intercept the encroaching enemy or reinforce Datz at a moments notice.”

The group, thankfully, obeys your orders without question.

Now, you have to determine the flow of battle.

You and your group:

>Continue to focus fire on that destroyer. Cripple it before it reaches us.

>Move southwards, get away from the enemy and find better targets.

>Fire upon the ships in the dust field. It will decrease your accuracy, but hopefully it will be enough to swing the battle in your favour.

Datz disobeys command. Perhaps you will be able to reign her in later on.

Test group 19

>Hold their position, their mere presence should be good enough.

>Send them to assist Datz. They will undoubtedly suffer a rear attack, but together with Datz, they should overwhelm the remainder of the enemy group.

>Time for some aggression. Have them charge the enemy. Time to see just how better these new frigates are. It would be perfect test environment, undoubtedly the date would please the Captain’s superiors.

(Used the rolling system suggested >>5182631 let me know if you guys like it.)
>>
>>5183514
>Continue to focus fire on that destroyer. Cripple it before it reaches us.

>Time for some aggression. Have them charge the enemy. Time to see just how better these new frigates are. It would be perfect test environment, undoubtedly the date would please the Captain’s superiors.
>>
>>5183514
>>Continue to focus fire on that destroyer. Cripple it before it reaches us

>Time for some aggression. Have them charge the enemy. Time to see just how better these new frigates are. It would be perfect test environment, undoubtedly the date would please the Captain’s superiors
>>
>>5183514
if we are going to change up the roll system anytime the rolls get spicey why not remove crit fails altogether eh?

spicey rolls make the quest volatile and thats exactly what i want idc about "muh quest no have failures" i like the unpredicability of dices and the more we have of that the better

also votes
>Continue to focus fire on that destroyer. Cripple it before it reaches us.

test grp 19
>Time for some aggression. Have them charge the enemy. Time to see just how better these new frigates are. It would be perfect test environment, undoubtedly the date would please the Captain’s superiors.
indeed perfect enviroment for frigate testing chefs kiss
>>
>>5183514
>Continue to focus fire on that destroyer. Cripple it before it reaches us.

>Time for some aggression. Have them charge the enemy. Time to see just how better these new frigates are. It would be perfect test environment, undoubtedly the date would please the Captain’s superiors.
>>
>>5183693
well, the reason why i suggested the new dice system as it is, is to still possibly have very spicy rolls, but to kind of "even out" the results when we get into large number rolling. i get that "crits overrule all" can make a "dominate them or get fucked" senario, but i, personally, don't like seeing 5 dice rolls be good, only for a singular dice to destroy an otherwise good set. we can still get terrible luck this way, but in a sense it mellows out the absolute shitfests from being a total landslide failure.
>>
>>5183514
also, just gonna vote the same as the two other guys.>>5183644
>>5183544
>>
Hitting the destroyer & Test group agression

1d100 best of 3
>>
Rolled 39 (1d100)

>>5184515
crits for the win either way
>>
Rolled 18 (1d100)

>>5184515

Redemption or death.
>>
Rolled 29, 83, 96, 36, 44, 45, 28, 55, 99, 71, 19, 47, 63, 35, 34, 61, 82, 4, 64, 90 = 1085 (20d100)

Purging bad rolls.
>>
Rolled 66 (1d100)

>>5184515
Here goes nothing.
>>
So is that using the 29 or the 66?
>>
>>5184548
considering you made 2 high crits and only one low crit id say you jinxed it kek
>>
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“Comms, direct the group to fire upon the destroyer. Gunnery, prepare all missiles and fire as a single volley with the rest of the formation.” You calmly call out.

Whilst your force is preparing, you look over the tactical display and realize that Datz has lost another frigate, this time to a destroyer entering combat range. The weapons undoubtedly had been upgraded.

Perhaps now, beaten and bruised she’ll see reason.

“Comms, send a message directed towards Lady-Commander Datz. Inform her that if she requires assistance, she’s to follow my orders.”

Saying so, you turn to watch the missile barrage descending onto the enemy destroyer. The missile frigates behind it had also fired their volleys upon you. Luckily, your Defenders easily swat away the missiles. Meanwhile, you look on in disapproval, as a laser turret on the destroyer blows out, rocking the ship. This is what happens when you do not maintain your ships to proper standard. The shoddy construction sees your missiles pass unperturbed. With the explosive ordinance impacting, the vessel begins to break apart.

Once more looking over the tactical display, you watch as the new frigates exchange equal amounts of fire with the pirate frigates, but the superior armour, weapons, and manoeuvrability of the Fenrir-class sees them come out on top. The new design seems to be what was advertised.

“Sir, Lady-Commander Datz has responded in approval.” Says the comms officer.

With your command reasserted, once more you must determine how to carry on the battle.

You and your group:

>Focus fire on the exposed strikers,

>Move southwards, try to see if you can’t flank the enemy.

>Fire upon the ships in the dust field. It will decrease your accuracy, but hopefully it will be enough to swing the battle in your favour.

>(Write in)

Datz and her Hunters pack

>Keep her in place. She may as well be the bait.

>Order her to retreat behind Test Group 19.

>(Write in)

Test group 19

>Sweep away the Defenders and hit the Striker group.

>Concentrate fire on the Destroyer. With the field giving you cover; missile barrages are not the biggest threat.

>Intercept the frigates directly behind the destroyer. Their speed must be neutralized.

>(Write in)
>>
>>5185279
>Focus fire on the exposed strikers,
>Order her to retreat behind Test Group 19.
>Concentrate fire on the Destroyer. With the field giving you cover; missile barrages are not the biggest threat.
>>
>>5185279
You and your group:
>Rush forward, aiming to drive by the Striker group, destroying them as we flank the group in the centre

Datz and her Hunters pack:
>Begin a fighting withdrawal to the East. She will be the bait.

Test group 19
>Sweep away the Defenders and hit the Striker group.

It will be a half pincer movement, where we can be in a position to hit the rear and sides of that central group while TG19 cleans up the bottom flank.

Also, is that line around that striker group near the sun an error or something? Ever since that cloaked ship I've been a little paranoid about random errors like that.
>>
>>5185279
>>Focus fire on the exposed strikers,
>Keep her in place. She may as well be the bait.
>Sweep away the Defenders and hit the Striker group.
>>
btw qm, a bit of a question which works into an idea i've had as of lately, but is there any planets in the area we are currently in(all of these scattered solar systems which aren't on the populated map) which could be good for colonization?

i was thinking of maybe us trying to fund a self governing colony if anything, starting small, but we could build out from there to slowly get a small landed area for ourselves.
>>
>>5185701

You could definitely try and look for a good area.

That however would be very expensive, dangerous, and illegal.

No outside expansion is permitted without the Emperor's approval. So you'd have to keep the colony hidden. Or you could not have any traceable connection to it.

You'd have to finance and find a sufficient, and most importantly loyal enough, population to start it off, and it will be massively in the red for years to come.

Finally, you'd have to contend with the lovely neighbours that tend to populate the fringes of civilization.

All in all, it is possible, but it would be a massive resource and time sink to start it up, with the potential of failure being high.
>>
>>5185764
what if one then declares themselves a separate empire (for like, a few seconds) but then quickly switch to being under the allegiance of the countess?

wasn't what the countess did basically try to make a vassal of the other empire? (until they pissed her off)

that way, the countess could technically just re-instate us as a knight, or baron if then we get the landed title because of it. and all of it could be claimed under "conquest rights" of herself if she was to be the one who took over our squalid little place.

and, a little bit of a question to the then new colony, how much in the red are we talking about? and would it depend on how good of a quality planet we would find? i could image a continental planet with good atmosphere would start out alot more healthy and independent than some moon needing constant import and attention from some other trade partners.
>>
>>5185810
Eh, as much as I want this kind of thing to happen I imagine it'll be a long time before we have the resources and reputation to pull it off. We're rich enough to buy a healthy sized fleet, not an entire planet.
>>
>>5185842
of course, but im of course not saying "let us go do it right now, otherwise no balls"

im just asking into it, as such we know what we can work with and what would not work. no problem in askin, eh?
>>
>>5185810

>what if one then declares themselves a separate empire (for like, a few seconds) but then quickly switch to being under the allegiance of the countess?

Again, Emperor's approval.

>wasn't what the countess did basically try to make a vassal of the other empire? (until they pissed her off)

She isn't trying to vassalize it, because she cannot. A treaty of trade and cooperation will be made, like with other subspacer nations.

The subspacers will sign a favourable trade treaty towards the ducal house, in exchange the ducal house will provide trade lane protection.

The relationship should be viewed as one that the steppe nomads had with settled peoples. Tributary payments in exchange for not being bothered.

>and, a little bit of a question to the then new colony, how much in the red are we talking about? and would it depend on how good of a quality planet we would find? i could image a continental planet with good atmosphere would start out alot more healthy and independent than some moon needing constant import and attention from some other trade partners.

Basically that, yes. Should you find an exceptionally minerally rich world, most of the cost would come from the starting set up, but quickly there after you'd make it into the black and potentially into the green.
>>
Focus fire on the exposed strikers. Wins for you group

Datz and her group are retreating.

Sweep away the Defenders and hit the Striker group. For Test Group 19

Writing.
>>
>>5186233

1d100 best of 3
>>
Rolled 44 (1d100)

>>5186236
>>
Rolled 26 (1d100)

>>5186236
>>
Rolled 34 (1d100)

>>5186236
>>
Rolled 73 (1d100)

>>5186236
>>
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Your gunners once more prepare a volley against the exposed strikers.

Whilst that is happening, the Test Group moves at an astonishing speed. Quickly overwhelming the last two Defenders and delivering killing blows onto a quartet of Strikers. But because of this, the remainder of enemy wolf classes had begun to engage them. You also watch as Reaver fires off its M.A.G. round onto one Fenrir. With curiosity, you observe that despite the fact the M.A.G. round penetrates, it does not cut through. The frigate having survived what would undoubtedly be a death sentence.

A death sentence that is shown by one of Datz’ Defenders. The modernized M.A.G. cannon splits the frigate. You also realize that you are in a rather precarious situation, exposed to a destroyer and a few frigates. Luckily for you, the general lack of coordination and discipline exhibited by the pirates mean that, they would rather chase down the withdrawing Datz than threaten you.

Speaking of you. Volleys are exchanged between both sides. This time however, one of your Defenders is overwhelmed and annihilated, but in exchange, the 4 Strikers are turned into superheated metal.

The overall state of the battle hangs on a knife-edge. With one factor or another swinging it in favour of one side or another. Whilst pondering this, your comms officer turns to you.

“Captain. Friendly destroyers on approach, they just need a few more klicks and they will enter the battle.”

“Understood. Inform the rest of the force.” You remark. The possible morale boost will hopefully be that deciding factor in the battle.

You and your group:

>With no one there to contest you, it is possible to move freely, go through the north and teach the Strikers the meaning of striking.

>No doubt it will antagonize them, but you can fire upon the ships chasing Datz.

>(Write in)

Datz and her Hunters pack:

>Keep her pace, maybe she can lure the enemy away from combat proper.

>Keep her pace, she needs to rally with Test Group 19.

>She likes risks, doesn’t she ? Have her turn about and face the foe.

>(Write in)

Test group 19:

>Keep on the frigates. No doubt the destroyer will nab a frigate or two, but the enemy frigates are a greater threat.

>Concentrate fire on the Destroyer. Its firepower is far more dangerous than what the frigates got to offer.

>Time to risk it. Ignore the foe and get at those strikers.

>Datz’s “tactical retreat” seems to be working. Turn about and let the enemy chase them.

>(Write in)
>>
>>5186474
>>No doubt it will antagonize them, but you can fire upon the ships chasing Datz.
>Keep her pace, maybe she can lure the enemy away from combat proper.
>Concentrate fire on the Destroyer. Its firepower is far more dangerous than what the frigates got to offer.
>>
>>5186474
>No doubt it will antagonize them, but you can fire upon the ships chasing Datz.
>Keep her pace, she needs to rally with Test Group 19.
>Concentrate fire on the Destroyer. Its firepower is far more dangerous than what the frigates got to offer.
>>
>>5186474
>No doubt it will antagonize them, but you can fire upon the ships chasing Datz.
>Keep her pace, maybe she can lure the enemy away from combat proper.
Right into our arriving destroyers.
>Concentrate fire on the Destroyer. Its firepower is far more dangerous than what the frigates got to offer.
>>
>>5186474
>With no one there to contest you, it is possible to move freely, go through the north and teach the Strikers the meaning of striking.
>Keep her pace, maybe she can lure the enemy away from combat proper.
>Concentrate fire on the Destroyer. Its firepower is far more dangerous than what the frigates got to offer.
>>
Poke the bees nest

Continue the tactical withdrawal

Target the destroyer.

1d100 best of 3
>>
Rolled 40 (1d100)

>>5187704
>>
Rolled 34 (1d100)

>>5187704
>>
Rolled 48 (1d100)

>>5187704
>>
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As Datz continues her withdrawal, a barrage of fire from pirate frigates catches her Striker, blowing it to bits.

In exchange, your own missile volley catches a Defender off guard, blowing it to bits.

Whilst the frigates are chasing, the nearby destroyer, after following Datz for a bit, begins to turn about. You will have to face it soon.

Meanwhile, the test group as ordered are concentrating upon the Reaver. They begin impacting the destroyer’s plates, shaving off armour, but unfortunately, another M.A.G. round finally finishes off the wounded Fenrir.

Whilst this is happening, the two protectors come under a combined fire of a quartet of Strikers, a group of Wolf-classes, and a Defender. Surprisingly, the two vessels hold their own, guarding the flank and allowing both the Fenrirs and Pummelers to concentrate on the destroyer.

Observing the combat, you call out your comms officer.

“How far are the friendly destroyers ?”

“Moments away, sir.”

You and your group:

>Concentrate on the destroyer. Cripple it before it reaches the group.

>Turn-about, head towards the incoming friendlies.

>(Write in)

Datz and her Hunters pack:

>Running seems to work. Let her keep at it.

>It should now be a fair fight, let her get some revenge.

>(Write in)

Test group 19:

>Keep at it as is. Hopefully the destroyer will crack before the Protectors will.

>Change targets. (What units on whom ?)

>(Write in)
>>
>>5187949
>>Concentrate on the destroyer. Cripple it before it reaches the group.
>It should now be a fair fight, let her get some revenge.
>Keep at it as is. Hopefully the destroyer will crack before the Protectors will.
>>
>>5187949
>>5188013
x2
>>
>>5187949
>Concentrate on the destroyer. Cripple it before it reaches the group.
>It should now be a fair fight, let her get some revenge.
>Keep at it as is. Hopefully the destroyer will crack before the Protectors will.
>>
>>5187949
>Concentrate on the destroyer. Cripple it before it reaches the group.
>Running seems to work. Let her keep at it.
>Keep at it as is. Hopefully the destroyer will crack before the Protectors will.

We're going to need frigate replacements before we continue with the campaign.
>>
>>5187949
>Concentrate on the destroyer. Cripple it before it reaches the group.
>It should now be a fair fight, let her get some revenge.
>Keep at it as is. Hopefully the destroyer will crack before the Protectors will.
>>
>>5187949
>Concentrate on the destroyer. Cripple it before it reaches the group.
>It should now be a fair fight, let her get some revenge.
>Keep at it as is. Hopefully the destroyer will crack before the Protectors will.
>>
Destroyer

Let her fight

Crack the destroyer

1d100 best of 3
>>
Rolled 21 (1d100)

>>5188738
>>
Rolled 95 (1d100)

>>5188738
>>
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>>5188750
>>
>>5188750
Thanks for redeeming my terrible roll. No crit fail and we're home free.
>>
Rolled 42 (1d100)

>>5188738

>>5188755
You're gonna jinx it.
>>
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As you watch the destroyer navigate through the dust cloud, you remember your Captain’s idea.

“Sensors, calculate the path of the Reaver. Gunnery, fire missile in the path and be prepared to detonate them on my mark.”

With the missiles launched and prepared, you watch on with a bated breath. Luckily, the sheer amount of interference, and probably a lax attitude of the pirates means that they do not notice the missiles in time. Your prepared trap combined with an added volley sees the vessel obliterated. With the threat facing you now gone, you can turn full attention onto the tactical display.

On it, you see that Datz’s engagement had already been resolved. She had lost a Defender, but in exchange the pirates were completely wiped out.

The only active engagement now is between the test group and the remainder of the ne’er-do-wells. Unfortunately, the Protectors are finally overwhelmed, with combined fire coming from a group of Strikers, Wolves and a Defender, they are utterly destroyed. But before their untimely end, they drag down 3 wolf-classes with them.

As for the last remaining destroyer, its outdated armour finally buckles under the fire of your frigates’ railguns, M.A.G. cannons, and missiles.

Just as you think that the frigates will be rolled up, your tactical map indicates friendly contacts. Your allies have arrived.

>Time to end it. We shall tie down the remains. It may result in a few more dead, but the pirates will be fully dealt with.

>We’ve done enough, retreat to friendly lines.
>>
>>5188870
>>Time to end it. We shall tie down the remains. It may result in a few more dead, but the pirates will be fully dealt with.
>>
>>5188870
>>Time to end it. We shall tie down the remains. It may result in a few more dead, but the pirates will be fully dealt with.
>>
>>5188870
>Time to end it. We shall tie down the remains. It may result in a few more dead, but the pirates will be fully dealt with.
>>
>>5188870
>Time to end it. We shall tie down the remains. It may result in a few more dead, but the pirates will be fully dealt with.
>>
>>5188870
>We’ve done enough, retreat to friendly lines.
We've lost too many frigates in this engagement. On the up side, we've proven the efficacy of those new frigates, and we'll need to buy a lot more when we get back to friendly lines.
>>
Ending it wins

1d100 best of 3
>>
Rolled 34 (1d100)

>>5189619
>>
Rolled 90 (1d100)

>>5189619
>>
Rolled 97 (1d100)

>>5189619
>>
>>5189743
GLORIOUS
>>
>>5189743
Got'em
>>
>>5189743
Impressive, very nice.
>>
>>5189743
PIRATES DELENDA EST
>>
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With the appearance of your destroyers, the remaining pirates break and run. With only a few left around, you give out a decisive order.

“All elements, after the enemy.” You calmly state.

With only really Test Group 19 in range of the pirates, they begin chasing.

The Pummlers fire off their volleys onto the fleeing Wolf and Defender, leaving both with a hole ridden hull.

The Fenrirs show their superior speed when it comes to chasing down the Strikers. Were these not newer design frigates, catching up with the Strikers would have been impossible. Now however, the nimble frigates dart around the asteroid field, clearing it rapidly. With no more obstacles in the way, accurate M.A.G. rounds quickly put an end to the last of the pirates.

For the fist time, in a long time, calm takes over the battlefield. The dead hulks now blending in and becoming an indistinguishable part of the chaotic system.

------------------------------
(End of POV shift.)

You look over the remainder of your frigates. Whilst the fight was won, it was stinging, your fastest elements were decimated. Still, some silver lining has come of it. The new frigates had proven themselves to be exceptionally superior to their predecessors.

As you had arrived, one the first orders you had given was to look for survivors, both friendly and hostile. Whilst some of your men were saved, the pirates were not so lucky. It seems that the pirates preferred manoeuvrability over survivability, and they could not afford the expensive uniforms that are standard issue in the Imperial Navy.

Another thing you had ordered was an intensive scanning of the system’s edge, which came back empty. If nothing else, the wider group of pirates should be unaware of the happenings in this system.

There of course is the matter of Datz. Teigon had written an extensive report, naturally you questioned other officers on site, and from what you could have gathered, his reports were without any exaggerations. Datz disobeyed direct orders and acted on her own initiative. It is a matter you’ll have to deal with in time, once you return to friendly lines that is.
>>
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>>5190609

Speaking of friendly lines, you now have to decide if you should continue your campaign or call it quits for the moment. On the plus side, you could repair your damaged ships, perhaps even commission new ones. On the downside, Alpizar would have no idea that you turned around, and a messenger ship would need to be sent.

>You had a plan and you will stick to it.

>Maybe some repairs are in order.
>>
>>5190610
>You had a plan and you will stick to it.
Our quicks scouting elements are weakened, but it'd be foolish to abandon our first assault due to some frigate losses. We must catch them out in our next fight.
>>
>>5190610
if we can send a detachment to stock up on frigs
>Maybe some repairs are in order.

if not
>You had a plan and you will stick to it.
we only have this much time before the pirates realize the hunt is on
>>5190638
im not sure if id call down to 1/3 weakened.
from this engagement it seems the pirates have like ~10 frigs per destroyer.
So either we go and say we dont care about the frigs being able to outtrun us into safety now and just try to disable/destroy all the heavier pirate ships.

Could we send a detachment back to HQ as a intermediary to stock up on frigs?

Also holy shit those new frigs went in blazing, and that one who survived the first mag round should be named post-humuosly and/or mentioned honourably.
[/spoiler] I WANT THEM ALL [/spoiler]
>>
>>5190681

>Could we send a detachment back to HQ as a intermediary to stock up on frigs?

You could, but you run the risk of interception and the fact that the force would have to catch up with you, or rendezvous with you in a certain system.
>>
>>5190610
>>You had a plan and you will stick to it.
>>
>>5190610
>You had a plan and you will stick to it.
>>
>>5190610
>You had a plan and you will stick to it.
>>
>>5190610
>You had a plan and you will stick to it.

Not leaving Alpi out there unawares, we'd never live it down.
>>
Being fickle, whilst useful in ones attempts to throw of the enemy, will also throw off ones allies. You can’t do Rasia dirty.

With your force reorganized, the engines roaring, and the various weapons prepared, you slingshot out of the system, shifting dimensions and entering the darkness, the unpredictability of the Tide.

About a week later, you arrive in a new system, and you are surprised by its tranquillity. A life-giving G-type main-sequence star. A massive gas giant, reminding you of Jupiter, guarding a single planet in the goldilocks zone. Upon closer inspection, you quickly realize that the world is covered in water, almost exclusively so, with only a few bare rocks barely jutting above the water line, large waves rock the world’s surface as two moons continuously wreak havoc upon it. The atmosphere is composed primarily of nitrogen, carbon dioxide, and inert gases.

Another thing that catches you, is the fact that there are comm readings coming off the world, but no visible settlements.

“Sir, there are comms towers built on the larger islands.” Reports the sensors officer.

“Comms, any idea what it is saying ?”

“Prices, sir. They seem to be advertising fish, oxygen, algae, drinkable water.”

“Subspacers ?” You quiz.

“Seems so, sir.”

Turning to your XO, you raise a question. “What are the chances that these are pirates, or pirate aligned locals ?”

“No reports were filed about there being permanent settlements in the system. It is possible that the pirates set up a base here.”

>”Get us closer, I want to talk with whomever is down there in real time.” Hopefully they do not have any ground-to-orbit cannons under all of that water.

>”Fire off a few shots onto the surface, see if the message changes.”

>”This is a waste of time, we are moving on.”

>(Write in)
>>
>>5191609
>>”Get us closer, I want to talk with whomever is down there in real time.” Hopefully they do not have any ground-to-orbit cannons under all of that water.

Stay on alert and have all weapons prepared.
>>
>>5191609
>”Get us closer, I want to talk with whomever is down there in real time.” Hopefully they do not have any ground-to-orbit cannons under all of that water.
>>
>>5191609
>”Get us closer, I want to talk with whomever is down there in real time.” Hopefully they do not have any ground-to-orbit cannons under all of that water.
>>
>>5191609
>>”Get us closer, I want to talk with whomever is down there in real time.”
i wanna see if we can request our damaged ships stay here to repair, in exchange for protection vs the pirates(if they are not pirate alligned)

that way, we might get the alligance of these sub spacers.
>>
>>5191609
>>”Get us closer, I want to talk with whomever is down there in real time.” Hopefully they do not have any ground-to-orbit cannons under all of that water.
>>
>>5191609
>>”Get us closer, I want to talk with whomever is down there in real time.”
>>
>>5191609
>”Get us closer, I want to talk with whomever is down there in real time.”
>I want to hit them with my (shiny new) Sword.
>>
Approaching the world, you are able to rapidly locate a comms tower, a quick beam of light speed laser delivers your message.

“This is Knight-Captain Fergus Proenza of the Unbroken Empire’s Imperial navy. Who are you ?”

You wait a few moments, before a woman’s voice greats you back.

“This is Aliosha Konzal of Ceron. How can I help you today, officer ?”

For now they seem friendly enough.

>”I have some questions for you.” (Write in)
>>
>>5192245
First off
>What the hell are you doing down there?
Then
>Would you happen to have any records of any ships that have passed through the area? Other than our force, what warships have you seen?
And then, depending on her answer, we set up a trap.
If she hasn't seen any or seems to be unfriendly, ask her to inform us of any ships that seem to be making their way to system x (an isolated system we can choose to lie in wait)
If she is willing to cooperate, ask her to spread some rumours about an important convoy at system x. We can spend some influence on getting her to cooperate too if necessary, we have 70 left.
>>
>>5192245
>>5192255

"First thing first. What the hell are you doing down there ?" You cannot but question, your curiosity getting the better of you.

"The hell do you think ? Living, mining, cooking, fornicating. As any other colony does." An amused voice responds.

Pissing people off seems to be the specialty of subspacers. No wonder we continue to nuke them.

"Right, would you happen to have any records of any ships that have passed through the area ? Other than our force, what warships have you seen ?"

"Don't know, might have seen, might have not. And before you start threatening me, there are dozens, hundreds of kilometres of water between your guns and our settlements, that is if you can even locate us in the first place."
>>
>>5192294
QM how toxic is our fuel? Suppose the answer is a lot, we could literally poison water. From a valuable shield to a useless tomb.

Of course, accelerating a meteor or several of them into the polar ice caps would create enough destruction to scare them away, at least in theory...
>>
>>5192294
Just ask what are they sell, they will talk one way or other.

Lets not start nuclear war before we even really know with who.
>>
>>5192315

>QM how toxic is our fuel?

Not at all actually. All things considered it is pretty safe and environmentally friendly.
>>
>>5192320
>pretty safe and environmentally friendly.
Good
>>
>>5192319
>>5192245

"All right then, what are you selling ?" You ask, moments after pondering the complete and utter annihilation of their people.

“This and that. As was advertised, we deal in foodstuffs, drinkable water, and we are also able to produce large quantities of oxygen. All are hard to come by in these parts, in any real quantities anyways. We offer fair prices for fair services.” Responds the voice.
>>
>>5192357
"you seem to have a pretty good gig going on in this area, would you accept the unbroken empires rulership if we were to ask for your loyalty some day?"
>>
>>5192409

“The Imperials, Emarians, some other up jumped warlord, or a pirate king. It makes no difference to us. It ain’t like we have much in terms of resources worth taking for any to bother taking us by storm. We pay tribute to whomever is the biggest force in the area at any time, just like anyone else in our situation. But if you are asking that we will be heart bleeding patriots, waving the royal banner and greeting you as liberators ? No. Out here, we do not have the luxury of greater ideas and ideology, whomever has more guns is in charge, simple as that.”
>>
>>5192432
>We pay tribute to whomever is the biggest force in the area at any time

Who do you pay tribute to now?
>>
>>5192524
This, also ask how much they're paying in tax/tribute. I need a better sense of the non-naval economics of this 'verse
>>
>>5192631
Once we get an idea of how much these pirates are demanding we can give her some influence to get her on side too.
>>
>>5192432
Help us with information on pirate movements, supplies and a good guess on their numbers and i can offer you half tributes for 5 years and the designation as a "loyal forgotten colony", so you dont get any problems with the higher ups and you will be getting quite the up tick on trade in the coming months, as we are clearing out the sector
>>
>>5192524
>>5192631
>>5192662
>>5192808

“How much are you paying in tribute, and to whom ?” You ask.

“A twentieth of our yearly output. As to whom we are paying, well, the pirates recently, about a year or so back, got really bold, they crushed most naval forces of local powers. They are the top dogs right now. Occasionally they fly by our territory. If you want precise numbers, I’ve got none to offer. All I can say is, they can control the surrounding areas. Whenever someone tries to rebel, it does not take long for news to reach us of how badly they got put in their places.”

Listening to this, you come up with another idea. “Help us with information on pirate movements, supplies and a good guess on their numbers and I can offer you half tributes for 5 years and the designation as a "loyal forgotten colony", so you don’t get any problems with the higher ups and you will be getting quite the uptick on trade in the coming months, as we are clearing out the sector.”

“No offence, mister officer, but I doubt you can keep up that offer. If the Unbroken Empire could actually keep us safe, we wouldn’t be in this situation, now would we. We are more than happy to sell you what you need, but we will not stick our necks out for such nebulous claims and titles as "loyal forgotten colony", we ain’t nobles here.”
>>
>>5193040
>Whenever someone tries to rebel, it does not take long for news to reach us of how badly they got put in their places.

Any names that pop out to you?

Also, I'll take you up on your offer to trade, our flotilla could do with a resupply, and I'm in the mood for some fresh fish myself.
>>
>>5193040
>>5193060
Supporting
>>
>>5193040
Send her some influence to spread some rumours about a supply convoy that's heading to a neighbouring system to resupply our ships. If the fleet doesn't get to us we'll be stranded here, or so the story will go. In reality the convoy will be fake, and we'll be waiting for any pirate forces that turn up to annihilate them.
>>
>>5193040
Wait, if the information that any "betrayal" is immediately reported does that mean the pirates have a sophisticated network of information, the sort of thing they would need agents to keep right? would it be possible to find the representative of the pirates in this colony and ask kindly about the information we want?
>>
“You said that news of revolts being put down reach you quickly, any names ? And how do they inform you ?”

“Strilia, a close by trade partner, couple of jumps to the galactic south. They tried to rebel, had bought some third-rate out of date frigates, no idea how they got their hands on them, but the pirates did not take it kindly. Their ships got blown to hell and then the pirates started shelling the settlements from orbit. The poor bastards never stood a chance, unlike us, they did not have a natural terrain advantage, nor could hey afford planetary cannons worth a damn.

As for how the news reached us, the pirates had an outpost here, a few months back, but that’s when I assume your people rolled in and left it a pile of molten slag. Now, they just send their runner ships like they used to, before they built the outpost.”

You ponder for a moment. “Say, if I were to pay, would you be willing to spread some information ?”

“Depends on the information, we won’t do anything could endanger us.”

“Could you spread knowledge of a vulnerable convoy in a specific system, to any pirate forces that come by ?”

“We could, yes. It is still risky, so we want a fair price for it.”

“Of course, now then, how much for the fish ?” You ask with humour.

“Now you’re talking business.”

For the spread of information, the subspacers want 50 influence

For the supplies, they want 10 influence +5 to future combat rolls for the next fight only, as fresh food and extra shower rations increases morale.

Current influence: 70

>Pay for the supplies only.

>Pay for the information only.

>Pay for both.

>Pay for neither.

Afterwards:

>”I have no more questions, we’re moving on.”

>”I still have a few more words to exchange with you.”
>>
>>5194137
>Pay for both.
>”I have no more questions, we’re moving on.”
>>
>>5194137
>>Pay for both.
>”I have no more questions, we’re moving on.”
>>
>>5194137
>Pay for both.
>”I have no more questions, we’re moving on.”
We should also check out that outpost. Might be worth a look.
>>
>>5194137
>Pay for the supplies only.
>”I have no more questions, we’re moving on.”
>>
Chora IV is an Ecumenopolis, a world-spanning city, as is the norm in the mid-core. Your homeworld meant that you never really had the chance to taste fish, other than replications, the real fishes were reserved for those who could afford them, but as you are taking the last bite of tuna, you have to agree, the price was worth it. If the reports given to you by Gavril are true, the crew thinks alongside the same lines.

The pickup had been a bit of a hassle, with cargo containers being driven up from the depths onto landing pads set into the isles, you had to send shuttle after shuttle to pick everything up, but as said previously, the crew definitely thinks that it was worth it. From the reports of the ground crews, you were also able to confirm the fact that the people down there are human, and most assuredly subspacer, if the large bulky suits are anything to go by.

With short conversations exchanged, and small talk made, you also found out that these people indeed live under the seas. Vast elaborate labyrinthine like structures webbing themselves across the ocean floors. Maintenance is a never-ending headache, but controlled oceanic environments allow for large, nourishing food production.

After you finish enjoying the luxuries of captaincy, finest choice fish with white wine, you return to the bridge. Once there, you stare through the window screen at the gas giant in front of you. No wonder you detected nothing once you entered the system, the remnants of the space station have long been caught by the gravitic pull of the gas giant, perhaps a month or two, and you wouldn’t even be able to find this.

“Sensors, anything of use ?” You ask whilst taking a seat.

“Nothing, sir. If what the locals said was true, I doubt that there will be anything of worth left aboard.”

“A useless ball of gas then ?”

“For our purposes, yes sir.” Responds the officer.

Looking at the data readout, you suddenly have an idea. Option activated because of your “Skilled” trait.

“Sensors, how strong is the interference from the gas giant ?”

“Pretty large, sir. With it being so massive, the gasses naturally extend a for a long distance.”

“Could we theoretically hide ships in high-orbit ?” You ask, turning to Tetreault.

“With this amount of interference, we could potentially hide our vessels, yes. The more ships we leave however, the more likely it is for them to be found. Even running on silent, we would need to expend energy to ensure that we are not dragged down by the planet’s gravity.” Surmises your XO.

>Leave some forces. With there being an inhabited world here, it is only a matter of time until a pirate group arrives here. (What forces ?)

>Leave some force, but hit only the second group. Allow the first pirate grouping to spread the information you paid for. (What forces ?)

>We already laid a trap. In time, hopefully that will be enough. Time to move on to the next system.

>(Write in)
>>
>>5194255
>Leave some force, but hit only the second group. Allow the first pirate grouping to spread the information you paid for. (What forces ?)

Frigates and a destroyer or two.
>>
>>5194391
+1
>>
>>5194391
Support
>>
>>5194391
+1
Let's leave a little gift for our little friends.
>>
>>5194391
Support. I'd pick one of our raider-guardian groups, would be a good mix.
>>
With how you had organized your forces, it was easy for you to split off the necessary forces. “Spear of Bronze”, “Hunters pack”, “Artemis”, and Test Group 19 have all been squeezed into the gas giant’s upper atmosphere. You can only hope that the force will not be caught in an ambush of their own. What you are doing here carries a great risk, but it also potentially carries a great reward.

Now, the only possible chink in your plan is your soon to be built outpost. Commander Pavlovich better not endanger your endeavours here, when he arrives later on.

With your supplies replenished and the ambushing troops left behind, the remainder of your fleet rallies together and shifts out of system.

Arriving in a new system, alarms begin blaring instantaneously.

WARNING. HOSTILE ENVIRONMENT DETECTED. SYSTEM DEPARTURE RECOMMENDED.

Solar flares hit your vessels and asteroids fly straight at your face. It seems that you’ve stumbled upon a dying star system, or well, in the process of death that will take millions of years.

Whatever dwarf star had been here is currently in the process of turning into a red giant, and the process is wreaking havoc upon the star system as a whole.

“Sir.” Calls out the comms officer. “I am detecting communications in the system.”

“Can you pin point location ?” You ask.

“I can try, sir.”

“Captain, another signature, large scale explosion.” Cuts in the sensors officer.

“Same possible location ?”

“Negative, sir.”

“Captain, I must recommend that we ignore these signatures and depart. We already risk potential damage by having to close in on the star in order to shift dimensions, the longer we stay here, the more likely it is for something to go wrong.” States Tetreault.

“Such as ?” You question. Not like you received the extensive training that people like her had.

“A solar flare catching a ship full-on, could result in electric shutdown, with little to no hope of bringing it back online in time before another flare hits and fries the crew.”

>”We’re going after the comm signature.”

>”Helmsman, lock in on that explosion.”

>”Why not do both, Tetreault, split the force.” (How ?)

>”Fine, damn whomever is foolish enough to stay here, we are leaving.”
>>
>>5195440
>>”Helmsman, lock in on that explosion.”
>>
>>5195440
>>”Helmsman, lock in on that explosion.”
>>
>>5195440
>”We’re going after the comm signature.”
>>
>>5195440
>”Helmsman, lock in on that explosion.”
>>
File: Pirate hunt8.png (2.15 MB, 5175x3662)
2.15 MB
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”Helmsman, lock in on that explosion.” You command.

Your fleet begins its ponderous movement across the asteroid field. Your larger ships having a hard time trying to make sure that they make good speed whilst not hitting anything. No one seems all that enthusiastic about being hit by a solar flare.

Finally, you reach the position that your sensors officer picked up. There, you watch as a ponderous cargo vessel, large parts of its plating blown apart, is struck by a solar flare. Whatever crew were still alive there, are probably no longer amongst the living.

It seems that you stumbled across a grouping of pirates attacking civilian shipping.

>”Full speed ahead with all forces, the flare should go out soon, we must reach those transports as soon as possible.” (Risk of ship damage due to terrain.)

>”Slow and steady, no unnecessary risks.”

>”Send the destroyers fast. Rest of the fleet move carefully.”

>(Write in ?)
>>
>>5196013
>”Send the destroyers fast. Rest of the fleet move carefully.”
>>
>>5196013
>Send Ironclad Courage and Emperors Dagger detachments fast, Ironclad flanking the left flank while Emperor diving into the middle to unleash their broadsides.
Speed and Aggression gentlemen, these transports have no defences so this needs to be done quickly.
>>
>>5196044
+1
>>
>>5196044
+1 Good idea
Opening communications with the refugee ships would be another good idea, maybe they have tips on how we get out of here alive.
>>
>>5196013
>”Send the destroyers fast. Rest of the fleet move carefully.”
>>
>>5196044 wins

1d100 best of 3
>>
Rolled 34 (1d100)

>>5196236
>>
Rolled 73 (1d100)

>>5196236
>>
Rolled 20 (1d100)

>>5196236
>>
File: Pirate hunt9.png (2.43 MB, 5175x3662)
2.43 MB
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It reminds you of a swarm of wasps, whose nest had been disturbed. All nearby frigates, expect for the ones furthest still surrounding the cargo ship, jump at your destroyers. With surprising grace and skill, something you didn’t expect to see here, the pirates begin exchanging fire, and whilst two Wolf-classes are quickly decapitated, your Raiders suffer under the hail of fire. Their armour still holds, but the sheer quantity of rounds begins to show its effect.

Another thing that catches your note is the fact that the main pirate destroyer is still holding its position. That is when your sensors officer informs you:

“Captain, detecting numerous small signatures coming off the cargo ships, look like transport ships, sir.”

“Understood. Comms, open channel, get me in contact with whomever is still hopefully in charge of those ships.”

“Yes, sir.” Responds the officer.

Glancing at the tactical display once more, you are frustrated by the fact that the pirates are avoiding your slower Vigilance-classes, seemingly doing their best to keep distance and interpose asteroids between themselves and their M.A.G. cannons.

Meanwhile, you own force moves at an absolute snail’s pace. I damn wish I had more frigates right about now. That ambush better be worth it.

“Sir, I’ve established comms with the captains of the cargo vessels, preparing a secure conference call now.”

A couple of grateful, although slightly panicked and tired voices quickly greet you.

“Captain, my people thank the Unbroken Empire for their vigilance.” Says a gruff sounding voice. You can already imagine an old man on the other end.

“We too are extremely grateful.” Responds another, a female voice, though old sounding as well.

“What is your current situation ?” Ignoring the praise, you quickly get to the point.

“The pirates had breached our main cargo holds and hangars. We pulled back our forces to more defensible positions, that is what allowed us to survive for so long, but unfortunately most of the cargo is currently being stolen.” Says the man.

“Have you dealt with these pirate before ?” You ask.

“They’ve started rampaging about a year back, so yes. They’re well organized, for pirates, and they are damn ruthless to everyone but them.” Informs you the woman.

“So they value their crews ?”

“The local chieftains do, it is the basis of their power.” Continues the woman.

“Are you capable of launching a counterattack ?”

“My lord ?” Confusion clear in the man’s voice.

“I asked you, if you are capable of launching a counterattack and tying down the pirates within your vessels ?”

“Well, my lord, I do not know, such an action would cost us dearly and would be likely to fail.” Sheepishly says the man.
>>
Like I give a damn about some subspacers, they would be dead if I haven’t gotten here in the first place. I better…

>Intimidate them into doing what I want.

>Persuade them into doing what I want.

>Actually, never mind. They might be willing to share more information and resources, if I do not force them on a suicidal attack.

Then there’s the matter of the battle.

>Keep course.

>Time for a change of plan. (How?)

QM NOTE:

This map is a bitch to work on.

Some DCs if you are interested for moving around in this terrain at full speed.

Frigate - auto pass

Pirate destroyers (they smol) - DC 15

Your destroyers - DC 25

Vigilance-class - DC 35

Timur-class - DC 50

In case you anons were wondering how terrain factored in the combat. Bigger ships do not always win by default, unless you are in the open, I suppose.
>>
>>5196352
>>Actually, never mind. They might be willing to share more information and resources, if I do not force them on a suicidal attack.
They will get in our way

>Keep course.
>>
>>5196355
>Persuade them into doing what I want.
We can try to save your as, but not at the cost of our whole ass.
>Time for a change of plan. (How?)
Ramming and broadcasting that the ghoul is here.
>>
>>5196355
>Persuade them into doing what I want.
>Keep course.
>>
>>5196355
>Intimidate them into doing what I want. Ram the destroyers in front of them. They're dead if they don't move anyway.

>Keep course.
>>
>>5196355
>Actually, never mind. They might be willing to share more information and resources, if I do not force them on a suicidal attack.

>Keep course.

We need solid information about pirates and this might be the perfect chance to get it. Fighting pirates on a "terrain" so inhospitable to our current strength seems like a terrible idea.
>>
>>5196355
>Actually, never mind. They might be willing to share more information and resources, if I do not force them on a suicidal attack.

>Keep course.
>>
Nvm 3

Persuade 2

Intimidate 1

Keep course 5

Ram 1

Okay. Not exploiting the poor subspacers and just continuously going at it.

1d100 best of 3
>>
Rolled 57 (1d100)

>>5198037
>>
Rolled 80 (1d100)

>>5198037
>>
Rolled 13 (1d100)

>>5198037
>>
what are the traders even doing here in this shithole system and What are they shipping?

Also can we try a saturation bombardment of the area with the goal to shatter rocks and the like around the offloading pirates? trying to create a hostile enviroment for anything that isnt behind a ships armor?
>>
File: Pirate hunt10.png (1.8 MB, 5175x3662)
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“Fine. Sit tight and do not move, we will deal with the pirates.” After saying so, you unceremoniously cut the conversation.

Turning towards the tactical display, you are momentarily stunned by the sheer incompetence on display. A quartet of frigates, for unknown reasons, seem to be charging towards one of your Vigilance-classes. The outcome is just as you’d expect, complete and utter annihilation. The 4 frigates are ripped apart in short order.

Meanwhile, two more frigates are destroyed by your destroyers, unfortunately, you have to grit your teeth as you watch an asteroid impact one of the destroyers. Luckily, it was not a direct hit, but the side of the destroyer got scratched pretty nastily. Still, the ship is still standing and able to go.

“Captain, last of the small energy signatures have disappeared.” Informs you the sensors officer. “Enemy forces are in full withdrawal.”

Your moment of pondering is interrupted as the sensors officer once more starts talking.

“Sir, detecting energy build up, solar flare incoming to our location. I recommend we leave the are immediately.”

>”Fine, get the subspacers to tag along, we are leaving the area.” Not like we can chase them down in such terrain.

>”We are keeping pursuit.”

>(Write in)
>>
>>5198832
>”Fine, get the subspacers to tag along, we are leaving the area.”
>Communicate to the subspacers that they are invited on your ship when in safe space.
>>
>>5198832
>>”Fine, get the subspacers to tag along, we are leaving the area.” Not like we can chase them down in such terrain.
>>
>>5198832
>”Fine, get the subspacers to tag along, we are leaving the area.”
Would have liked to have captured one of those pirates, but considering the terrain there's not much we can do about it.
>>
>>5198832
>>”Fine, get the subspacers to tag along, we are leaving the area.” Not like we can chase them down in such terrain.
>>
>>5198832
>”Fine, get the subspacers to tag along, we are leaving the area.” Not like we can chase them down in such terrain.
>>
>>5199923 New thread. Since this one is about to die.

I would also like to hear any feedback and criticisms you anons have.

Will also answer any questions about the setting and what have you.
>>
>>5199925
No real criticisms on here, you've been running this campaign excellently. I guess the only thing I'd ask you to improve is our dice rolls, but there's not much you can do about that is there?

One question I do have on the setting is how common are these pirates and subspacers living in the middle of nowhere? We seem to be running into a lot of them on our campaigns, but I suppose that might just be because we're in the fringes. How do people like these set themselves up? I imagine you can't just up and leave the (presently) Unbroken Empire.
>>
>>5199992

>I'd ask you to improve is our dice rolls, but there's not much you can do about that is there?

I'm always open to ideas. For now though, I think I will stick to the system that was used most of the time.

>how common are these pirates and subspacers living in the middle of nowhere?

Pretty common because of:

>but I suppose that might just be because we're in the fringes

The further you move away from the fringes of the Unbroken Empire, the less and less people there are. The fringes themselves are pretty populated by refugees, political exiles, corporate interests, etc.

The Unbroken Empire itself allowed all of these groups to form as means of a release valve, and also the simple fact that the Empire is too big. With there being no FTL communication, it necessitates decentralization, but decentralization can lead to very strong vassals capable of challenging imperial authority. How to avoid that ? Make expansion as difficult as possible. In this scenario, the Unbroken Empire is purposefully limiting its own ability to expand, in order to increase its ability to maintain stability at all costs.

>How do people like these set themselves up? I imagine you can't just up and leave the (presently) Unbroken Empire.

It is indeed illegal to go outside of the empire without permission. Most people ignore the order, as it is simply infeasible to stop everyone.

Most current subspacer nations are older colonies back from federation days, sent out far ahead, or remnants of those new nations that had formed during the moment of federation's weakness that survived the following reconquest in a very reduced state. A relevant example - The Raisat Star League

Then there are corporate interests, they not as much set up colonies as mining ventures, farm worlds and the like. They are there to generate profits, and once whatever resource was of interest is gone, or if it is simply no longer profitable to continue the operation, the corporates pull out. The people left, those who cannot afford to go back, usually end up setting up their own little nation. That or they starve to death and are completely forgotten.

The newest subspacer nations are not set up by exiled nobles, losers of power struggles. These tend to have capable militaries and they tend to expand aggressively. Best current example - The Emarian Kingdom.



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