Ben Somerset

Congrats, William! Have a Happy Birthday, and have fun driving on those oh-so-safe highways. ------------------ Cmdr. Benjamin Somerset GCV Swiftsure *1st Squadron, *SIN Wing Stationed, *Starstation Wrath "I wish to have no connection with any ship that does not sail fast, for I intend to go into harm's way." - John Paul Jones ICQ 32545391, CST =TDY Wraith Fleet= Dragon - Order of the Jade Dragon Prime Fleet Liason Officer

It sounds pretty good to me. Gives the WC/SqC's a great deal of flexibility in planning operations. When MP comes out, what we need to do is find/recruit SqC's that are very independent minded, yet realize the need for combined operations. From the look of things, we may be operating in singletons for the most part unless working in combined ops (GCO only). When BCM comes out, I suggest that we begin recruiting and running training excercises to get our Wings up and running smoothly as soon as possible. The independent ideal will help in this, allowing WC/SqC's to plan individual training plans for the Squadrons. Also, having a Base Commander/Logistics Officer will be a very good thing. It takes the supply detailing off the WC's back, allowing him to better plan the initial training excercises and gives him more time to work with the Wings growing pains. One more thing. In order to better entice people to sign up for my Wing (SIN), I'd like to change part of our mission parameters. As is, we are detailed with Exploration/Trade (which has become Logisitcs, with the elimination of warship trading)/and Intelligence gathering. I'd also like to add Covert Ops (Attack) to our responsibilities. I know that Corsair is nominally assigned these duties, but they will mostly likely be operating in the Gammulan Quadrant, and not many other places. Detailing SIN Wing to the same task will allow more flexibility in attacking other targets, most likely Insurgent areas. Or it would allow us to make a concerted strike against a major target (Attempting to take down New America for ex.). It will give us more forces to carry the attack, and more ships to perform the assault with. I'd like to know your thoughts on this. As always, I will follow your orders. {Edit}: Neglected to mention that SqC stands for Squadron Commander. Didn't think that SC would be quite appropriate for that. Respectfully, ------------------ Cmdr. Benjamin Somerset GCV Swiftsure *1st Squadron, *SIN Wing Stationed, *Starstation Wrath "I wish to have no connection with any ship that does not sail fast, for I intend to go into harm's way." - John Paul Jones ICQ 32545391, CST =TDY Wraith Fleet= Dragon - Order of the Jade Dragon Prime Fleet Liason Officer [This message has been edited by Ben Somerset (edited 05-17-2000).]

Not only that, but we must also consider getting a Training Officer, Recruiting Officer, and possibly a Fleet Operations Officer, in addition to the Logistics Officer position. A Fleet of starships doesn't run and fight on beans, just bean-counters. ------------------ Cmdr. Benjamin Somerset GCV Swiftsure *1st Squadron, *SIN Wing Stationed, *Starstation Wrath "I wish to have no connection with any ship that does not sail fast, for I intend to go into harm's way." - John Paul Jones ICQ 32545391, CST =TDY Wraith Fleet= Dragon - Order of the Jade Dragon Prime Fleet Liason Officer

Glad to see ye back, Gallion. Dunno if I'll be able to post anytime soon, though. GF is coming into town, and I haven't seen her for four months. Needless to say, I shall be indisposed, for an indeterminite amount of time. I'll be back next Sunday, for sure. ------------------ Cmdr. Benjamin Somerset GCV Swiftsure *1st Squadron, *SIN Wing Stationed, *Starstation Wrath "I wish to have no connection with any ship that does not sail fast, for I intend to go into harm's way." - John Paul Jones ICQ 32545391, CST =TDY Wraith Fleet= Dragon - Order of the Jade Dragon Prime Fleet Liason Officer

Well, I don't know about Insurgent regs, but ours don't allow for summary executions. Unless Paul Resnig is involved. ------------------ Cmdr. Benjamin Somerset GCV Swiftsure *1st Squadron, *SIN Wing Stationed, *Starstation Wrath "I wish to have no connection with any ship that does not sail fast, for I intend to go into harm's way." - John Paul Jones ICQ 32545391, CST =TDY Wraith Fleet= Dragon - Order of the Jade Dragon Prime Fleet Liason Officer [This message has been edited by Ben Somerset (edited 04-23-2000).]

While some search for moles, others of us have a war to fight! [RP] 1850, March 15, 3008 Lydon, Krynan GCV Swiftsure It hadn't even been 30 minutes, and the fighting was beginning to let up. The Gammulans had made a rather large mistake in sending troops aboard the Wraith ships. Though under normal circumstances, they may have made a decent setback. This time, they accomplished little. What the Gamms didn't realize was that most of the Wraith ships present were involved in the evacuation of Wrath SS, and that meant extra personnel aboard. And not just extra crew, but extra Marines as well. Most ships had a bloated Marine complement equaling 2 or more times the normal Marine complement carried aboard a starship. Their mistake. The Mandorians had not fared as well as the Wraith ships had with the boarding assault. Many ships were damaged, and forced to disengage from the fight. Even more were destroyed by the heavy internal fighting. This time however, the combined Fleet had managed to stand their ground. Where are those damn Kandorians? Somerset asked himself. He only hoped they would join the fighting soon. Soran returned him to reality as he said "New enemy vessels, bearing 018, mark 021. They are headed toward the Event Horizon. Weapons range in 38 seconds." Somerset glanced at his holo-TacOps, and gave his ordered "New Squadron course, 218, mark 105, full impulse. Prepare for a full missile spread at the enemy vessels. We've got to let that ship get clear!" Swiftsure covered the Event Horizon to safety as the next round of assaults began. The Battle of Lydon continued. For how long, neither side knew. [/RP] ------------------ Cmdr. Benjamin Somerset GCV Swiftsure *1st Squadron, *SIN Wing Stationed, *Starstation Wrath "I wish to have no connection with any ship that does not sail fast, for I intend to go into harm's way." - John Paul Jones ICQ 32545391, CST =TDY Wraith Fleet= Dragon - Order of the Jade Dragon Prime Fleet Liason Officer

Mike, I would like give you my deepest condolences on your loss. I doubt that there is anything that can really asuage your grief from such a shattering loss. You don't need to worry about the drunk. Even after his prison sentence, he will have to own up on Judgement Day. No matter what happens, justice is always served, one way or another. If you ever need anything, your friends will always be here for you. Sincerely, Chris (aka Somerset)

Ristar, Take all the time you need off. We'll always be here, if you need us. Our condolences go out to you and your family. ------------------ Cmdr. Benjamin Somerset GCV Swiftsure *1st Squadron, *SIN Wing Stationed, *Starstation Wrath "I wish to have no connection with any ship that does not sail fast, for I intend to go into harm's way." - John Paul Jones ICQ 32545391, CST =TDY Wraith Fleet= Dragon - Order of the Jade Dragon Prime Fleet Liason Officer

[RP] 1820, March 15, 3008 Lydon, Krynon GCV Swiftsure "Commander, there's a ship decloaking off the starboard aft!" Kamarov yelled as his proximity alert went off at his station. Somerset looked ahead calmly "Lock weapons, and prepare to fire." "Sir, I'm reading a friendly IFF," Melanie reported from Comms. "I'm also getting a message. The ECV Event Horizon, and they stand ready to assist." "The vessel is moving into flanking position, Commander," Soran reported. "Very well. Signal them that we appreciate the assistance. Status of the enemy?" Somerset questioned. Ishikawa checked his console and said "They are still holding position. No sign of any change." There was still something bothering Somerset. They had just sat and waited for what seemed like an eternity. For now, the Gammulans were doing nothing. Then the thought occured to him, They must be waiting for something...and it's only a matter of time before whatever it is happens...we don't have much time. "Number One, Condition Red. Have all hands stand to Battle Stations, and get those Marines suited up and ready for any possible activity. Melanie, order the Squadron to go to Condition Red, and have them prepare for Boarding Action. We might throw off their plans with a few well placed Marines," Somerset ordered. The officers acknowledged their orders as klaxons went off, and crew started manning Battle Stations. A few minutes later Kamarov reported, "All Battle Stations manned and ready, sir. Major Harris reports Alpha Squad in the transporter room ready for Boarding action." "Have the Major deploy the rest of his men to repel possible boarders. If we came up with the idea, it's a sure bet the Gammulans did too. And have him send a Squad up to the Bridge. I don't want to try and fight a ship battle as well as a battle on my own bridge." "Aye-aye, sir," Kamarov said, and leaned over to talk into his headset. The Bridge doors slid open to reveal 10 heavily armed Marines, in addition to the 2 sentries always posted on the Bridge. "Gunny Watkins, reporting as ordered, sir!" "Gunny, situate your men to hold this position. I want this place held at all cost." Somerset said quietly. "Aye-aye, Commander!" The Gunny said as he waved his hands, and positioned his men around the Bridge. Almost before they were done, Soran reported, "Commander, the enemy vessels are moving. Course 213, mark 105. They are coming towards us." "Their weapons are charging, and shields are going up!" Kamarov said. Somerset keyed his console, and opened a channel to his Squadron and said "All ships, go to half-impulse, defensive pattern Delta. Prepare to engage the enemy." A few seconds later, Soran said "Commander, multiple invasive transports. There are intruders aboard!" Somerset keyed his shipwide intercom "Intruder Alert, all hands set Condition One. I say again, set Condition One." He cut the intercom and ordered, "Number One, secure the main computer from possible hackers. Major, secure Main Engineering, the transporter room, and the Launch Bays." "Enemy now coming into weapons range..." Kamarov said. The Battle of Lydon had begun. From within, and without. It would not be a pretty battle. [/RP] ------------------ Cmdr. Benjamin Somerset GCV Swiftsure *1st Squadron, *SIN Wing Stationed, *Starstation Wrath "I wish to have no connection with any ship that does not sail fast, for I intend to go into harm's way." - John Paul Jones ICQ 32545391, CST =TDY Wraith Fleet= Prime Fleet Liason Officer [This message has been edited by Ben Somerset (edited 04-10-2000).]

[RP] GCAFN GalCom Armed Forces News-Lyrius The GCAFN is saddened to report the death of a high ranking Fleet Command official. Fleet Commander Gareth DeSylva and his wife were killed by assasains earlier today while attending a diplomatic conference at Earth Command Headquarters. Wrath PAO (Public Affairs Office) issued this statement: "At this time, investigation has lead us to believe that this plot against Fleet Commander DeSylva was precipitated by elements of the Insurgency. Whether this was sanctioned by the Insurgent Command is unknown at this time, but believed to be possible. Fleet Commander DeSylva served GalCom well during his life, saving the Sol system in the Gammulan Incursion of 3000, and forming the ISS Fleet during the 2990's. His loss is a great detriment to the GalCom Military, and condolences go out to the friends and family of the perished Fleet Commander and his wife." In a nearly unprecedented incident, Wrath SS CO Commander Benjamin Somerset, who does not speak to the press, issued this statement through the PAO: "Today, a great officer, and a great friend has perished. I met Gareth DeSylva, and came to know him as not only an excellent Commander, but as a good friend. This incident with the Insurgency is horrific, and saddens me deeply. I personally do not believe that high ranking Insurgency officials sanctioned this act, however. Gareth DeSylva is the man who saved the Sol System in 3000 by bringing the Insurgency and GalCom together to fight a common foe. It is my belief that those Insurgent figures that made such an agreement with honorable intentions, would never go back on such a trust. DeSylva was a man that all GalCom military officers could emulate. A man of caring, dedication, duty, and an impeccable sense of honor. My condolences go out to his family, and pray that DeSylva and his wonderful wife are in a far better place. May they rest in peace." [/RP] ------------------ Cmdr. Benjamin Somerset GCV Swiftsure *1st Squadron, *SIN Wing Stationed, *Starstation Wrath "I wish to have no connection with any ship that does not sail fast, for I intend to go into harm's way." - John Paul Jones ICQ 32545391, CST =TDY Wraith Fleet= Prime Fleet Liason Officer [This message has been edited by Ben Somerset (edited 04-11-2000).]

Just one thing, Tac. The locations of starbases and SS have changed, but are still the old ones in the post you edited today. Thought you should know. ------------------ Cmdr. Benjamin Somerset GCV Swiftsure *1st Squadron, *SIN Wing Stationed, *Starstation Wrath "I wish to have no connection with any ship that does not sail fast, for I intend to go into harm's way." - John Paul Jones ICQ 32545391, CST =TDY Wraith Fleet= Prime Fleet Liason Officer

Ristar, be advised, there are no friendly assets located in Rinaal. All friendly forces (except the wily Corsair) are in Lydon. Just thought you should know. ------------------ Cmdr. Benjamin Somerset GCV Swiftsure *1st Squadron, *SIN Wing Stationed, *Starstation Wrath "I wish to have no connection with any ship that does not sail fast, for I intend to go into harm's way." - John Paul Jones ICQ 32545391, CST =TDY Wraith Fleet= Prime Fleet Liason Officer

Hope you have a nice day off, and a great Birthday, Derek!

I'd say that repairs are fine, but Ristar should watch his back, because even in a friendly port, one never knows what can happen. Especially with that wily Corsair at the helm of this thing. ------------------ Cmdr. Benjamin Somerset GCV Swiftsure *1st Squadron, *SIN Wing Stationed, *Starstation Wrath "I wish to have no connection with any ship that does not sail fast, for I intend to go into harm's way." - John Paul Jones ICQ 32545391, CST =TDY Wraith Fleet= Prime Fleet Liason Officer

Just hope I don't overstep me bounds here. [RP] 1800, March 15, 3008 Lydon, Krynon GCV Swiftsure Somerset stood stoically in his ready room, staring at a haggard image in the mirror. The image was his own. These last two days had not been the best for the Swiftsure, or for her Commander. Stubble protruded from all around his face because he couldn't shave, his eyes made him look to be drunken, when it was a combination of smoke, tiring fighting, and the stimulants that kept him awake. He was lucky he took a protein pill, which covered all his nutritional needs for 72 hours, or he would have been fighting hunger in addition to the Gammulans. After he managed to do something with his disheveled hair, and get the stubble off his face, Somerset felt a lot more normal, even though the situation remained quite far from it. He wished those damn Gammulans had never wanted to start a war. So much needless death, on all sides. After their daring attack and escape from the Gammulans in Chanis-I, the remainder of SIN Wing managed to stumble into the Fleet in Lydon. How they did so without being destroyed by the Gamms was still a mystery to Somerset. In any case, things didn't look good. From what he had ascertained, the Gammulans had lost fully two-thirds of their forces yet again, since their initial assault yesterday. They came into Rinaal with all they had, and only one-third rode into battle against Wraith. After reinforcement arrived, Wraith didn't appear to fair well, even with assistance from the Mandorian's. And now that he was done cleaning up, Somerset had some work to do. The ready room door slid open as he strode onto the bridge, and ordered "Report!" "We are still holding position, Commander. No enemy activity at present. They are holding position as well. It is my belief that they are consolidating the remainder of their forces for an attack," Soran said. Somerset refrained from informing Soran on how obvious that statement was. All the Gamms had been doing the last two days was attacking the Fleet. And now there wasn't much left. From comms, Winforth turned and informed Somerset, "Commander, incoming message from the Fleet Commander, Level I." "On screen," he ordered. Fleet Commander Londono appeared on the viewscreen, and touched a button on one of his command panels. Without warning, the screen split to show the remaining Wraith Wing Commanders, and the Commander of the Mandorian forces. "Gentlemen, we have a problem. Even though the enemy's numbers have been reduced to 123, they still outnumber and outgun us. Unless we get some help from the Kandorian's I don't see how we'll survive a few more onslaughts. Suggestions?" Somerset had been thinking about his since they had arrived, and he thought he had a plan. "Sir, I may have something that can help us." "Well, what is it?" Londono said, impatient for very good reason. "What I propose is this. From an intercepted transmission we got the names of high ranking Gammulan officials. We use those names, and the code to make up a false message. The message contains orders to attack the Kandorian's once the remainder of Wraith and the Mandorian Fleet's are wiped out. We can use a comm laser to bounce the message off the jumpgate, and reflect it toward the Starstation. The Gammulans won't hear it, but the Kandorian's will. And when they triangulate the location, it will appear to have come from a communications repeater at the jumpgate. If we offer our assistance to aid in their defence, it may prompt them to assist us." Somerset said. It would also hide the fact that we've broken the Gammulans top code as well, he thought to himself. On the viewscreen, Londono steepled his fingers, and appeared to ponder the thought. Finally, he nodded to himself, and looked back up at the Commanders assembled before him. "Do it. And make it quick. We don't have any idea when they'll be ready to strike." "Aye-aye, sir. Is there anything else?" Somerset asked. "No. We've already gone over the rest of our plans, if we make it that far. With this, hopefully we will. Good luck, and Godspeed. Londono, out." And with that, the screen returned to the normal view of the stars. 1825, March 15, 3008 Lydon, Krynon GCV Swiftsure It was done. They had managed to put together what sounded like a Gammulan tranmission, with high level Gammulan names, ordering an attack on the Kandorian's once the enemy was wiped out. Winforth finished her task quickly, and encoded the message with GFC-144. It was an older code, but one the Gammulans thought was unbroken. In fact, it had been broken by most of the major galactic governments in the last few years. The Kandorian's included. A few minutes later, she said "Ready, sir. The message is made, and I've got it encrypted." "Number One?" Somerset said. "Ready, Commander. I've calculated the precise position to within .002 nanometers for our comm laser to hit, and reflect back to the Starstation. There will be no way for them to tell that it is not the jumpgate communications repeater. Once the laser hits, it will scatter because of the gate, and the Kandorian's will see it as a broadband transmission. A very ingenious plan, Commander," Soran replied. "Very well. Make it so," Somerset ordered Now we wait, and pray that this works, Somerset thought to himself. [/RP] ------------------ Cmdr. Benjamin Somerset GCV Swiftsure *1st Squadron, *SIN Wing Stationed, *Starstation Wrath "I wish to have no connection with any ship that does not sail fast, for I intend to go into harm's way." - John Paul Jones ICQ 32545391, CST =TDY Wraith Fleet= Prime Fleet Liason Officer [This message has been edited by Ben Somerset (edited 04-02-2000).]

Ye didn't give me much choice, Gallion. It was either superman, or the Swiftsure being some of that space flotsam. I must admit the first time out was highly implausible, but the Omega mines, was mere innovation. I made the best of what I had. But now that I'm back with what remains of the Fleet, I doubt that superman will show his ugly head again. ------------------ Cmdr. Benjamin Somerset GCV Swiftsure *1st Squadron, *SIN Wing Stationed, *Starstation Wrath "I wish to have no connection with any ship that does not sail fast, for I intend to go into harm's way." - John Paul Jones ICQ 32545391, CST =TDY Wraith Fleet= Prime Fleet Liason Officer

Personally speaking, my choice with the SC's dispensation would be MZ 134. It would give us a nice mid-range starbase, and access to Velari SS if we need it, since it is also located in system. The SS and Wraith would gain mutual benefit, as our ships can defend it, and the SS can help defend our starbase. Sounds like a good bet to me. What do ye say, o' fearless leader? ------------------ Cmdr. Benjamin Somerset GCV Swiftsure *1st Squadron, *SIN Wing Stationed, *Starstation Wrath "I wish to have no connection with any ship that does not sail fast, for I intend to go into harm's way." - John Paul Jones ICQ 32545391, CST =TDY Wraith Fleet= Prime Fleet Liason Officer

I've got a question about the base locations. I've found an unclaimed starbase (no race or caste association), according to the pzones.pdf. Could we claim the starbase, or do we have to look for an unclaimed Terran/Military zone? ------------------ Cmdr. Benjamin Somerset GCV Swiftsure *1st Squadron, *SIN Wing Stationed, *Starstation Wrath "I wish to have no connection with any ship that does not sail fast, for I intend to go into harm's way." - John Paul Jones ICQ 32545391, CST =TDY Wraith Fleet= Prime Fleet Liason Officer

[RP] 1604, March 15, 3008 Debris Field, Chanis-I, Xyon GCV Swiftsure "All ships report that repairs are complete," Melanie said from comms. "Excellent. Status of the Josten's cargo transfer?" Somerset asked. "The last is being beamed aboard. In 7.4 minutes, the Josten will be destroyed," Soran reported. "Very well, have all ships prepare to move out on my orders. Mr. Ishikawa, set course for Lydan. Melanie, order all ships to do the same. Prepare to move out," Somerset ordered. Soran looked up from his station and said, "Commander, cargo transfer complete. The last of the Josten's crew is aboard, and the auto-destruct is in progress." "McAllister, move us to a safe distance. I don't want to be caught in the blast. Use minimal thrust, though. The Gammulans might be able to detect our impulse residue." "Aye-aye, sir." McAllister said, engaging the engines at 1% thrust. Slowly, the Swiftsure moved away from the stricken Battlecruiser, it's viewscreen still locked on the battered ship, whose life was about to end. A few minutes later, the space around the debris field was lit up as the Josten self destructed, her reactor breaching in a bright flash, and remains of her hull spinning through space. Somerset prayed for her poor Commander, sympathizing with his feelings. "Number One, how many people did we take aboard?" "We now have 248 personnel aboard the ship, Commander," Soran replied. "The Indianappolis is running short. Transfer 10 Marines, 5 System Engineer's, and 5 Medics over to her. And give me a report on the cargo transferred from the Josten." Soran simply replied, "Yes, Commander," and began carrying out his orders. 1645, March 15, 3008 Debris Field, Chanis-I, Xyon GCV Swiftsure "Commander! Activity at the jumpgate, multiple transits!" Ishikawa reported as alarms went off at his station. "Ours, or their's?" Somerset asked. "I can't tell, sir. The flux from so many transits is affecting the sensors at the gate," he said, dumbfounded. "Number One..." Somerset prodded. "Moving SR probe 3 to intercept. I am keeping the probe at the edge of it's sensor range. FTL signatures are not GalCom in origin. Readings indicate...they are Gammulan warships, Commander. At present 38 ships, bearing 139, mark 210. They are on course for the planet. I believe that they will inspect the planet first, in case we had landed, or were hiding in it's shadow," Soran said. "Agreed. It'd be the first thing I did as well. We'll have to catch them with their pants down. Have one of the probes track them. Make the rest go passive. Looks like the fun isn't over yet," he said, opening the shipwide channel. "Now hear this. Condition Red, all hands man battle stations." As the klaxons sounded, and the crew rushed back to Battle Stations, Somerset looked at his TacOps, and reviewed the situation. If he kept the Wing far enough away from the Gamms, they may be able to slip by to the jumpgate, and escape. But someone needed to make a distraction. "Number One, do any of the ships have any Omega mines left?" "Yes, Commander. We transferred five from the Josten, that they retrieved from Wraith HQ during the intital evacuation," his First Officer replied. "Excellent. Melanie, get on the comm to all ships. They are to cloak, and proceed to the jumpgate at impulse velocity. Have them make the jump to Chanis-II, and make a run for Darain. Stop for nothing, unless they run into the rest of the Fleet," Somerset ordered. "Mr. Ishikawa, plot an intercept course with the enemy Fleet, full impulse. Kamarov, ready the cloaking device, and reload the mine launch bay with the Omega's as fast as you can." "Aye, sir," they all said as they began their tasks. Soon, they were ready to go. The rest of the ships faded off, and headed for the jumpgate as the Swiftsure turned for the enemy warships headed to the planet. She crept up on them slowly, under cloak, undetected. Strangely, they hadn't brought any of those weird probes with them. It was Somerset's luck that they didn't. His entire plan depended on not being detected until they dropped the Omega's right on top of the enemy ships. Together, he and Soran unlocked the safeties, and armed the weapons. They came equipped with some form of stealth coating, that Gallion of all people came up with. It would disturb the cloak when they were launched, but Somerset knew how to deal with that. Finally, they arrived where they wanted to go, right overhead of the enemy ships. "Ready the mine launch bay, and drop the mines on my command. Are the timers set?" Somerset asked. "Yes, sir. For 4 seconds, and then they go on proximity detonation," Kamarov said. "Very well. Ishikawa, is our escape course ready?" "Yes, sir. It's plotted, and fed to the helm." "McAllister, after we drop the mines, it's all up to you. We have four seconds to get out of here, or we're never going home. Prepare for drop, and the escape course." It all came down to timing. It would take 3 seconds to drop the mines, when the Swiftsure would become visible, and subject to enemy fire. Four seconds after that, the five Omega weapons would detonate, and take the enemy warships with them. Or at least leave them damaged enough that they wouldn't be able to pursue, or call for help. Not before the SIN Wing had made good it's escape. "Ready to drop the mines on my mark...mark." Somerset ordered. The Swiftsure's cloak disrupted as she began dropping the mines, and PTA fire began streaming toward her. Sixty Gammulan ships quickly began targeting missiles to blow her out of space. They failed. The Swiftsure's shields dropped below 48% when the last mine dropped. They had four seconds to get out. Somerset said quickly, "McAllister, GO!" Time seemed to slow down, and the jump anamoly took forever to form, and finally, the Swiftsure entered it. Somerset used his console to put a aft view on screen. From behind, it looked like nothing more than a small spark, but it meant the end for 51 Gammulan ships. The other 9 were severely damaged, with systems knocked out from the EMP produced by the weapons. They would be going nowhere for some time. Somerset breathed a sigh of relief in his chair, relieved that they had cheated death once again. Hopefully, nothing that harrowing would happen for some time. The Swiftsure rushed to catch up with the rest of SIN Wing, and the War. [/RP] Managed to make it through this one. Gallion just keeps making it tougher. I just hope that next time is a little bit easier. ------------------ Cmdr. Benjamin Somerset GCV Swiftsure *1st Squadron, *SIN Wing Stationed, *Starstation Wrath "I wish to have no connection with any ship that does not sail fast, for I intend to go into harm's way." - John Paul Jones ICQ 32545391, CST =TDY Wraith Fleet= Prime Fleet Liason Officer [This message has been edited by Ben Somerset (edited 03-27-2000).]

Rattler, I could only verify one SB location, as I don't know what region(s) the other two are in. However, in my game (v2.09 with mappack),there is a Terran Military MZ located at: Omega Centauri/Octura-9/Moon-1/Mission Zone 1/Zone 207/207 S 1129 W If you'd like, I can grab a screenshot and send it your way. If you do, I'll get it sent out to you by 1600 EST tomorrow. If I knew where the other ones were, I'd try and verify them as well. Probably because I despise paperwork too. Respectfully, ------------------ Cmdr. Benjamin Somerset GCV Swiftsure *1st Squadron, *SIN Wing Stationed, *Starstation Wrath "I wish to have no connection with any ship that does not sail fast, for I intend to go into harm's way." - John Paul Jones ICQ 32545391, CST =TDY Wraith Fleet= Prime Fleet Liason Officer

quote:terminate with extreme predjudice I have the feeling that refers to me too, seeing how many ships the Gamms are throwing at me. But I've got a few ideas that might get me out of the hole again. I get to pay for my decisions this time around. Ristar: I would suggest avoiding Rinaal, as I have strategically relocated elsewhere. Watch your back out here, because the Gamms are playing for keeps this time. ------------------ Cmdr. Benjamin Somerset GCV Swiftsure *1st Squadron, *SIN Wing Stationed, *Starstation Wrath "I wish to have no connection with any ship that does not sail fast, for I intend to go into harm's way." - John Paul Jones ICQ 32545391, CST =TDY Wraith Fleet= Prime Fleet Liason Officer [This message has been edited by Ben Somerset (edited 03-25-2000).]

Gallion: As you said: Ye reap what ye sow. You gave me a difficult situation, and I made the best of it. I just need to keep myself out of such situations again. On with the motley... [RP] 1520, March 15, 3008 Chanis-I, Xyon GCV Swiftsure With all the reports in, things looked worse than they did during a rather daring escape. Then, Somerset didn't know how badly damaged some of his ships were, and how many were dead. Now he did. It prompted him to instead hide in a debris field, and let his ships lick their wounds. The damage was extensive. Four of his ships were not combat capable, and wouldn't be for at least 1.1 hours. One of the other ships blew out their jump engines making the fluxfield transit from Capella, and would have to be towed. But she wasn't the worst. From the viewscreen the Josten looked much like swiss cheese. Once a powerful warship, she now looked beaten and broken, with jagged rips running up and down her hull. Gammulan weapons had torn 6 hull breaches into her, and crippled her structural integrity. Unless it was repaired, she wouldn't survive another jump. Somerset opened a channel to the Josten and gave her weary, towntrodden Commander his orders. "Commander, prepare to evacuate your vessel. She's not jump capable, and a few good shots would rip her to shreds. We're a sitting duck out here, and I'm not going to sacrifice the Wing for one ship." "But, sir... If I had a little longer, I know we could make her jump capable!" "I'm afraid I can't do that. Prepare for evacuation. We can't hide in a debris field without detection forever. Get on with it. Somerset, out." He felt sorry for the man, because he knew what it was like to lose a ship. But this was about the lives of those under his command. Of which enough had been lost already these last two days. Somerset looked up at his First Officer and ordered, "Number One, launch 3 SR probes. Have all ships do the same. If any Gammulans decide to pay us a visit via the fluxfield, I want to know about it. Ishikawa, monitor the jumpgate sensors for any activity. McAllister, bring us within transporter range of the Josten. Have the transporters ready to bring them aboard. And be smart about it. Enough things have gone wrong already, and I don't want any Gammulan ships showing up while we're transferring people. Send some Flight Engineer's to Cargo Bay 1, and have them free up some space for the Josten's personnel until we can transfer them to another ship." "Commander, are we to leave the ship intact?" Soran asked. "No. Have him ready the auto-destruct sequence for 5 minutes. Any longer, and the Gammulans may be able to hack in and stop it. If he has any protests, tell him the orders are direct from me." A few minutes later, a face appeared on the viewscreen, for Somerset. It was the Commander of the Josten. "Commander, I won't give up my ship that easily!" "I'm sorry, Commander. There's nothing more I can do. Prepare to abandon your vessel. Somerset, out." "We are ready to begin evacuation, Commander," Kamarov reported. "Make it so." Somerset said. He raised his datapad to look at the casualty reports. They weren't any better. All the ships were running personnel heavy due to the evacuation of the Starstation. Between 180 to 210 apiece, meaning 2634 under his command. This time, 197 were casualties. Out of those, 53 were dead, and 144 were wounded. Somerset only wished he had done better. Too many had already died the last two days, and it was only going to get worse. The Battle of Lydan was coming, and soon. Somerset would be there...somehow. [/RP] Hope this doesn't get me into even more trouble. ------------------ Cmdr. Benjamin Somerset GCV Swiftsure *1st Squadron, *SIN Wing Stationed, *Starstation Wrath "I wish to have no connection with any ship that does not sail fast, for I intend to go into harm's way." - John Paul Jones ICQ 32545391, CST =TDY Wraith Fleet= Prime Fleet Liason Officer [This message has been edited by Ben Somerset (edited 03-24-2000).]

I also agree that Destiny shouldn't be placed in Sol, for all of the above stated reasons (up to and including Ron's). Tac posed this idea: quote:after Wraith had blown up the Rinaal SS and withdrew to Sol space and the Gam's went back into their borders, a few MONTHS after this, the insurgency scavenged the SS's hulk and re-built it into an operational starstation The Insurgents would only have to salvage metal and components, and use them to build a new station. It reduces the resources (Time, money, etc.) they require to build said SS, and places them in a better defensable position than they would be in Uranus. It takes Destiny out of a highly indefensable position, and can explain why there is no wreckage of Wraith SS in Rinaal (in game, of course). I don't have a good idea where to place the station, but Uranus just doesn't seem feasible from a strategic point of view. As Ron stated, it would tie up too many assets attempting to maintain control of the station. Of course, that's just my opinion, I could be wrong. Edit: Altered a few things after seeing Ron and I posted at the same time. ------------------ Cmdr. Benjamin Somerset GCV Swiftsure *1st Squadron, *SIN Wing Stationed, *Starstation Wrath "I wish to have no connection with any ship that does not sail fast, for I intend to go into harm's way." - John Paul Jones ICQ 32545391, CST =TDY Wraith Fleet= Prime Fleet Liason Officer [This message has been edited by Ben Somerset (edited 03-24-2000).]

Wouldn't show my last post to merely edit, so I had to make a new one. This was just to say that in my last RP post, Somerset asked for damage and casualty reports for a reason. They may not have been destroyed, but that doesn't mean no ship was undamaged. That will be dealt with, next post. ------------------ Cmdr. Benjamin Somerset GCV Swiftsure *1st Squadron, *SIN Wing Stationed, *Starstation Wrath "I wish to have no connection with any ship that does not sail fast, for I intend to go into harm's way." - John Paul Jones ICQ 32545391, CST =TDY Wraith Fleet= Prime Fleet Liason Officer

What can I say, Lady Luck had to travel with somebody. Sure wasn't with the rest of Wraith Fleet. Besides, it makes for an interesting "tall tale" for others to hear. The reality of it is so unbelieveable, that no one will believe it's the truth. In actuality, I thought Somerset had lost enough ships already. He was in command at Rinaal, and 32 ships have already fallen under his care. It was just time for a little payback, from a most angry Commander. Gallion can't quite be the only one to make the impossible, possible sometimes. Other times Murphy intervenes. But not today. ------------------ Cmdr. Benjamin Somerset GCV Swiftsure *1st Squadron, *SIN Wing Stationed, *Starstation Wrath "I wish to have no connection with any ship that does not sail fast, for I intend to go into harm's way." - John Paul Jones ICQ 32545391, CST =TDY Wraith Fleet= Prime Fleet Liason Officer