Ben Zwycky

Commander zwycky reporting successful signing sir! ------------------ Commander Ben Zwycky GCV Svoboda ISS07 Defence Wing -ISS Fleet Adjutant to the Fleet Commander http://www.watson-jones.swinternet.co.uk/Svoboda "Nakonec pravda vitezi" (in the end the truth wins)

I'm sorry to hear of your loss. You'll be in my prayers for many a night to come. ------------------ Commander Ben Zwycky GCV Svoboda ISS07 Defence Wing -ISS Fleet Adjutant to the Fleet Commander http://www.watson-jones.swinternet.co.uk/Svoboda "Nakonec pravda vitezi" (in the end the truth wins)

how's about this: [rp]"So, Mister big chief recruiter sir, why would I want join the ISS Fleet?" ÔÇ£Good question, lad!ÔÇØ The In System Support (ISS) Fleet is small at the moment with many vacancies and opportunities for advancement. (See here for details) The ISS is divided into three wings, each with complimentary purposes and opportunities: In the Defence Wing, you can get the opportunity to work with or even command squadrons of alien vessels, whether they are Empirian or Vesperon (if they are allowed back into Galcom by BCM) and defend key strategic regions against all comers. You are the last line of defense for galcom and earth, and you are there to serve and protect lives, military and civilian, against all the aggressors of these dark days. In the Tactical Support Wing, you are sent to wherever the action is, to back up galcom (or even maybe earthcom) forces whenever danger threatens, i.e. you are going to get USED, and see a lot of combat and so is not for the faint hearted. In the Intelligence and Espionage Wing, you get to infiltrate secret and secure installations and organizations, relay key strategic and tactical information and co-ordinate and implement covert surgical strikes when necessary. In all wings unconventional tactics and duties are encouraged and often employed to achieve mission objectives, and there is a large pool of talented and experienced troops available to the commander who shows himself capable of using them. In all, ISS is a fleet that values its members, and has an often-underappreciated role in this galaxy. Follow your heart and answer this noblest of callings: JOIN THE ISS FLEET TODAY![/rp] ------------------ Commander Ben Zwycky GCV Svoboda ISS07 Defence Wing -ISS Fleet Adjutant to the Fleet Commander http://www.watson-jones.swinternet.co.uk/Svoboda "Nakonec pravda vitezi" (in the end the truth wins)

[rp]Gareth moved slowly up onto the podium, wincing in pain as he negotiated the step up from the floor. He approached the lectern, cleared his throat and addressed the now silent gathering: "Many of you here, know me. Those of you who don't, probably should. My name is Gareth DeSylva, and I am the commander of this fleet - your fleet." "We are here today to honour the passing of two pilots, two comrades, and to many of you, two friends. Although I never knew the pilots who flew by the names of Cavalry and Deadboy, I have read the reports, submitted by Commanders Zwycky and Badgerius, and let me assure you, they were both glowing." "But military reports alone are no fitting way to commemorate the end of a life. And today's ceremony is made all the more special because we are celebrating the beginning of a new life." A murmur passed through the crowd, and DeSylva saw Tringad's and Ristar's eyebrows raise together and Commander Badgerius' face draw into an expression of surprise. Unseen to DeSylva (and probably everyone else) Ben cringed slightly. "Francis Morgan, please step forward to the podium." There was a moment of silence, and then Frank stood up from his seat. He stepped out slowly, looking at the raised platform where the command staff sat, before marching stiffly towards the podium, halting, and snapping off a salute. DeSylva smiled. "No man among you knows better the dreadful confusion of identity than this man. All of you face death, every single day. It is the one unknown, the constant beast that dogs our trails as warriors. But not a single one among you has ever had to face life - as a great unknown. You have all lived your lives. You were all born of peace. But only one man on this ship was born of war." Frank stared open-mouthed at the Fleet Commander, not sure whether to scream in rage or cry in pain. But then DeSylva looked down, and locked eyes with him, and Frank saw the sympathy there. "There is no man among this crew more alive, more individual than Francis Morgan. Livewire. Let no one tell you otherwise, Frank, and if they do - refer them to me. I saw Deadboy die, Frank, and I have seen you live, and trust me - you are not him, and you never will be. You are you - you forge your own life, and you make your own way." DeSylva looked up once more. "We gather here today to praise both of these men. Deadboy was a fine soldier who did what he had to do, and he did it with honour, and there is no way better than that. And I hope Livewire continues that legacy - in his own way." "All of you today - serve. With honour." DeSylva stepped down from the podium, and only those assembled there, behind him, saw the glint of tears and the memory of agony upon his weathered face.[/rp] ------------------ Commander Ben Zwycky GCV Svoboda ISS07 Defence Wing -ISS Fleet Adjutant to the Fleet Commander http://www.watson-jones.swinternet.co.uk/Svoboda "Nakonec pravda vitezi" (in the end the truth wins)

Time to get things moving I think. [rp]The entrance of Commander Badgerius and his crew interrupted Alun and Ben's conversation. "We'll carry this on later, Alun. I haven't seen Sev in quite a while." "OK, but we're supposed to start soon, remember?" Ben looked at his watch. 0857 hours? He'd lost track of time. "Sev! Great to see you. It's been too long." "That it has, Ben," Sev replied thoughtfully, "I would have preferred more pleasant circumstances." "Yeah, me too. Talking of which, I'm afraid I'll have to cut this short. I've reserved you a seat with the other Commanders behind the podium, if you'd like to take your seat, we're just about to start." "Certainly, I'll talk to you afterwards." "I look forward to it." Commanders Ristar, Badgerius, DeSylva and Tringad took their seats behind the podium as Ben addressed the crowd: "Ladies and Gentlemen, if you would take your seats, please, we will begin." The noise of conversation quickly dropped to nothing and people took their seats, waiting expectantly. As he looked around the room, he saw several people who remained standing around the perimeter of the room. Their stern, watchful, yet confident demeanours gave them away as security personnel. 'Max must be here somewhere,' Ben thought, 'I wonder where' As he looked around, Max's position in the shadows was given away by Karen smiling and waving at him. Ben couldn't help a little smile to himself. 'Are there any galcom officials that she doesn't know?' he wondered. He looked around the room again and reminded himself of the occasion and the duties he had to perform. "Welcome, everyone. Thank you for making the effort to be here, something more difficult for some than for others. Your presence is appreciated by all of us, especially by me. Fleet Commander DeSylva has come all the way from the medical facilities on Renegade Station, and has asked to make the opening address. Fleet Commander, if you would."[/rp] next part coming soon! ------------------ Commander Ben Zwycky GCV Svoboda ISS07 Defence Wing -ISS Fleet Adjutant to the Fleet Commander http://www.watson-jones.swinternet.co.uk/Svoboda "Nakonec pravda vitezi" (in the end the truth wins)

Badgerius is listed as topic starter in the "Gamma Wing news" thread in prime forum, and aramike as the topic starter in "Need some Guidance Here..." in the Insurgent Forum It struck me as strange. ------------------ Commander Ben Zwycky GCV Svoboda ISS07 Defence Wing -ISS Fleet Adjutant to the Fleet Commander http://www.watson-jones.swinternet.co.uk/Svoboda "Nakonec pravda vitezi" (in the end the truth wins)

OK, I'm a little puzzled. How were Badgerius and aramike able to become authorised users and start new threads in Fleet Forums? I asked Ristar if it was OK for me to start a new thread in the ISS Forum, and what it was about,and he said it was fine with him, but he didn't have the authority to make me an authorised user. Has he not been told something, or is that something only Thomas and Rattler can do? ------------------ Commander Ben Zwycky GCV Svoboda ISS07 Defence Wing -ISS Fleet Adjutant to the Fleet Commander http://www.watson-jones.swinternet.co.uk/Svoboda "Nakonec pravda vitezi" (in the end the truth wins)

Sorry to hear that too, Rico. We're all here if you need us. ------------------ Commander Ben Zwycky GCV Svoboda ISS07 Defence Wing -ISS Fleet Adjutant to the Fleet Commander http://www.watson-jones.swinternet.co.uk/Svoboda "Nakonec pravda vitezi" (in the end the truth wins)

*Phew* Thanks, Max. Your services are much appreciated ------------------ Commander Ben Zwycky GCV Svoboda ISS07 General Operatives Wing -ISS Fleet Adjutant to the Fleet Commander http://www.watson-jones.swinternet.co.uk/Svoboda "Nakonec pravda vitezi" (in the end the truth wins)

[rp]Time: 0830 hours Ben's personal communicator beeped. "Ben, an ISS Fleet Command Shuttle is approaching the Svoboda and requesting landing clearance." "Oh, OK, Karen. Have me beamed directly to the Flight deck. I'll welcome our guest personally." The jump anomaly appeared to block out Ben's view of the podium before he was sucked into it and ejected in the midst of a bustling crowd of technicians on the Svoboda's flight deck. Spare parts and repair materials were hurriedly tidied away, and a guard of honour was quickly lined up for their important arrival. "Commander, our ETA on the Svoboda is two minutes. They're just clearing the flight deck now." The silent figure, dress uniform crisp, nodded quickly to the pilot, before turning to stare at the Svoboda. The great ship had taken serious damage; the scars were still fresh in places. On one side of the ship, at the edge of his vision, tiny shadows accentuated the mismatch between large titanium plates and the sections of hull they had been hastily applied to. As the shuttle grew closer, the bottom of the battlecruiser filled his vision, darkening the shuttle as it blocked out the sun. Crenellated armour and the tiny glow-points of port viewers drew closer, wrapping the shuttle in a metallic embrace. The shuttle, lined up for it's final approach into the docking bay of the Svoboda, moved to one side to drift slowly past one of the massive IOD turrets. They were so close that the brown-black gas deposits from the plasma-powered weapon could be clearly seen, the massive gun half the size of the entire shuttle. Finally, they crossed the threshold of the docking bay, and gradually entered the maw of the ship. The atmospheric containment fields caused the shuttle to buck slightly; the viewscreen fogged over almost instantly, but the pilot had already activated the external demister; a controlled electrostatic field on the outside of the shuttle rapidly repelled the condensed water from the hull of the shuttle, still warming up after the infinite coldness of deep space. As the shuttle moved forward, the pilot, and his quiet passenger, could see the rare spectacle of atmosphere bleeding into space past the edges of the vessel, crystallizing instantly to form white ribbons, and just as quickly dispersing. Within the docking bay, there was no gravity, and so the shuttle carefully descended towards it's marked docking bay, the flashing lights guiding it in slowly, until with an imperceptible thump the shuttle touched down, landing skids extended. The pilot flipped several switches, and the passenger heard the generators of the shuttle winding down, their supersonic hum becoming audible and dropping in pitch. Finally, the pilot reached forward and locked down the controls. "Sir - we are cleared to disembark." The passenger got up, and nodded grimly. As he rose, he grimaced slightly in pain, and one hand reached reflexively for his shoulder. He shook himself out, before stepping out of the cockpit and into the passenger section of the shuttle. The four GALCOM marines were already prepared, and they saluted as he stepped out. They formed up, two in front and two behind him, and together the procession stepped out of the shuttle. At the bottom of the ramp, Commander Zwycky stood with several of his officers. As the first marines stepped down the ramp, they all saluted. "Commander Ristar! Welcome to the ship. I am glad you could be here, this ceremony is going to be very important for the crew, in many ways." Suddenly, Zwycky's eyes widened as he saw who was walking down the ramp. DeSylva smiled. "Commander Ristar will be joining us shortly, Ben." ---- "I thought you were still in the medical facilities, sir," spoken Zwycky as they walked towards the flight deck where the ceremony would be held. "I arranged to be released for the ceremony after Ristar informed me what was going on. Besides, I had other matters to attend to as well." Ben nodded. "I must confess I am a little surprised to see you here, considering your...ahh..." DeSylva smiled. "My known aversion to the cloning project?" he replied. Ben nodded. "Commander Zwycky, I have been a vocal protester to the use of cloning technology to supplement military forces for many years. Cloning can never replace a person, but the effects it has on the friends, family, and loved ones of the deceased who believe it can, are devastating. Not to mention the effect it has on the clones themselves, when they discover their entire lives have been computer simulated." Ben looked at DeSylva in surprise. "You know?" DeSylva nodded. "I do. Ristar gave me a full update on the situation and he knows everything there is to know about our ships and crew." Before Ben could protest, DeSylva waved a hand, wincing in the process. "I'm sure you did what you had to do, even though it was a shocking breach of cloning guidelines. Besides, they all find out eventually." Ben nodded. "Ben, just because I hate what GALCOM and EarthCOM are doing with cloning technology, doesn't mean I hate those who have to bear the burden - the clones themselves. If this helps your pilot, then I'm here." Ben nodded gratefully. "Thank you, sir." "Don't mention it. There is one other matter I need to speak to you about." "What is that, sir?" "As you know, commander Ristar has been my Adjutant since the fleet's inception. However, as our fleet has grown, his duties as the Commander of the Intelligence and Espionage Wing have taken more and more of his time. Not to mention his involvement with the Jade Dragon." Ben nodded. "He is certainly a multi-talented commander. We're lucky to have him." DeSylva smiled. "As of today, I am releasing him from his position as Adjutant. I need someone who can make it their sole command priority. He simply can't continue to run the Wing, command his own ship, AND act as my Adjutant." Ben nodded. "I totally agree sir, although it's hard to think of anyone who could possibly replace him. Do you have anyone in mind?" DeSylva nodded. "As a matter of fact, I do. I need someone well known to the fleet, someone who has plenty of connections amongst the ISS, someone who is respected for their honour and integrity; and someone fairly new to this, so I can train them well." DeSylva grinned at the last comment. Ben continued to nod. "A tall order, then." DeSylva looked Ben over. "Well, maybe not that tall, although you're certainly not short," DeSylva said, pressing a key on his wristpad. "Ben Zwycky, active immediately, I am conferring on you the responsibilities of ISS Fleet Adjutant, with all obligations, benefits, and clearances that position carries." Ben looked astounded. "Sir, are you sure, I mean this is a very large responsibility you're giving me." "Are you trying to say you don't want the job?" "Not at all, sir! It's an incredible honour, it's just that this has come as a bit of a surprise." "You know that you can trust my judgement in command decisions, and I have considered this one carefully. I look forward to working with you." "So I take it you are returning to active duties, then?" DeSylva smiled. "Only as Fleet Commander. I'll remain on the First Light, once it's repairs are complete, but I will not be Commander of it. It will serve as my flagship." Zwycky stopped and looked closely at DeSylva. "Sir...with all due respect, I never imagined the First Light being commanded by anyone else." DeSylva smiled faintly. "Ben, the First Light has always been commanded by other people. Her crew, her officers. She does all their bidding. All we'll be doing is changing my place on the Perscan." Ben turned and continued walking. "Who will you be replaced with?" he asked. "A person named Renwick. Gary Renwick." Ben looked puzzled. "I'm not sure I know of him." DeSylva smiled in response. "You wouldn't. He used to be a member of Prime Fleet. He was a pilot during the First Gammulan War; once he recovered from his injuries he continued to fly, but was injured again. He was taken off the flight roster, and completed his officer training. I've transferred him to the fleet to take over the First Light's command post. He's something of a friend." Ben looked surprised. "Nepotism?" he asked. DeSylva just continue to smile. "No. I call it trust." "Well, sir, I hope that it is well placed. In both of us." "I know it is. Commander, I know you must have last minute preparations to make. You go on ahead to the function room, and I will be along shortly." "Yes, sir." Ben walked off briskly, getting back to the function room in half the time it had taken him before. Upon entering the room, Ben was struck by the sudden increase in numbers of people. He looked around for the people he had expected to be there. Through the crowd he saw the distinctive figure of Commander Tringad, seated in one of the middle rows. He looked around a bit more, but couldn't see Commander Badgerius, whom he'd expected to be there. This disappointed him a little, but there was still time. Alun noticed him, waved and stood. Ben approached and greeted the taller man. "Alun! Glad you could make it!"[/rp] DeSylva wrote that part about himself before he said he was going. He also sent me what he's going to say during the service. None of you know that he's going to be there, because he's been restricted to Renegade Station medical facility since the First Light was seriously damaged. Anyway, where are you, Badger? Come on and join the proceedings. You'll be most welcome. We can have a little natter if you want, Alun TTFN, ------------------ Commander Ben Zwycky GCV Svoboda ISS07 General Operatives Wing -ISS Fleet Adjutant to the Fleet Commander http://www.watson-jones.swinternet.co.uk/Svoboda "Nakonec pravda vitezi" (in the end the truth wins) [This message has been edited by Ben Zwycky (edited 03-07-2000).]

Alun, you can post about recieving the invitation, your reaction to it, getting to the function room, absorbing the atmosphere, maybe chatting to the other people there, and once the proceedings start you can post about watching the proceedings, and there'll be a point when the floor will be thrown open for anyone to step forward onto the podium and pay their respects, say something of their experience of the two of them. The same applies for anyone who wants to be there. Badger, you going to be around? Anyone else? OK, slight change of timetable. I'll be getting a comms message at about 0830, and beam back to my ship, returning to the function room at 0850. My crew should all be there by then. ------------------ Commander Ben Zwycky GCV Svoboda ISS07 General Operatives Wing -ISS Fleet Adjutant to the Fleet Commander http://www.watson-jones.swinternet.co.uk/Svoboda "Nakonec pravda vitezi" (in the end the truth wins) [This message has been edited by Ben Zwycky (edited 03-02-2000).]

[rp]Jana arose from her restless nights sleep, her bedclothes either severely crumpled or catapulted across her quarters with all the tossing and turning she did. Many painful memories haunted her and many dark thoughts plagued her mind. After suddenly waking from her third nightmare, she looked at the clock in her room and decided not to risk re-entering the darkest corners of her subconscious. She showered and breakfasted, carefully tidied her quarters and prepared her dress uniform, drawing out the process to try and distract herself for a few more minutes. After copious examinations and readjustments she was at least satisfied with how she looked, if not with how she felt. She looked at the clock again. There was still half an hour before Frank was due to meet her. Too long to be left alone with her thoughts right now. She went over to her desk, pulled a battered old datapad out of a drawer and began to read the ancient text recorded in it, looking for some sort of magic words she could say to dispel the demons that surrounded her. Not really believing in those sorts of things meant that she met with very little success in that regard, but she was slightly comforted by some of the words, and at least she was distracted for a while. The knock on her door came as a shock, and she hurriedly hid the datapad back in the drawer before standing, taking a deep breath and putting on her best smile for her beloved. She opened the door and there he was, five minutes early and dressed immaculately. "Hi." "Hi." "You look great, even better than normal, if that's possible," Frank said with a grin. "You look very nice too." Frank offered his arm. "Ready to go?" She took it"OK." As they made their way to the function room, Frank noticed that she became more and more withdrawn and pensive, almost as if she was on the way to her own court-martial. "Are you OK? You sure you want to go through with all of this?" "We can't call it off now." Then she stopped, straightened up and drew a deep breath. "No. It needs to be done." As they entered the function room, they both gasped softly at the majestic setting for the proceedings. They noticed a single figure sitting at the front that turned his head towards them. It was Commander Zwycky. They walked over, still arm in arm. "Thank you for doing this, sir. This is more than I expected." "Karen had to pull a few favours, but it was worth it. They deserve the best we can give them. You alright there, Jana? You don't look so good." "I'll be OK. There are lots of painful memories, you know." "Of course." Ben suspected that there were things that had happened which he didn't know about, which he might never know about. "Look, if either of you need to talk, I'm not just here to give orders, you know." "Thank you sir." They both moved past him to the end of the front row and sat together, Frank doing his best to comfort his distressed companion.[/rp] OK, everybody, you're free to join the proceedings now. As I stated in my previous post, the time is now 0825, and the rest of my crew will be arriving over the next twenty minutes. I'll be leaving a gap until my post to start the proceedings so that anyone who wants to be there can be. I will respond to any post that involves people talking to me beforehand. Lets make an occasion of it. ------------------ Commander Ben Zwycky GCV Svoboda ISS07 Adjutant to the Fleet Commander In System Support (ISS) Fleet http://www.watson-jones.swinternet.co.uk/Svoboda "Nakonec pravda vitezi" (in the end the truth wins)

Jeehun Ristar is the acting Fleet Commander of ISS while DeSylva is incapacitated. ------------------ Commander Ben Zwycky GCV Svoboda ISS07 Adjutant to the Fleet Commander In System Support (ISS) Fleet http://www.watson-jones.swinternet.co.uk/Svoboda "Nakonec pravda vitezi" (in the end the truth wins)

I suspected as much, just not sure where to get a good mouse driver. (I don't remember there being a contact adress on the mouse driver diskette, but I'll try and fish it out and look again.) Cheers SC. It wasn't that I was getting messages that was strange, it just seemed like the largest free block figure had suddenly got much bigger. Obviously I'm just going mad in my old age . Later all, ------------------ Commander Ben Zwycky GCV Svoboda ISS07 Adjutant to the Fleet Commander In System Support (ISS) Fleet http://www.watson-jones.swinternet.co.uk/Svoboda "Nakonec pravda vitezi" (in the end the truth wins)

I've been having this problem for the last few weeks, I've not posted while I still had some ideas of what to do about it. When I start the game, I get the 3000ad logo, then I get a purple mouse cursor appearing in the centre of the screen after the logo disappears, then it goes to the normal startup screen, but the mouse cursor won't respond to mouse movements, but the screen will respond to key presses, like q to quit, which exits normally, but any other keypress to select something from the menu causes the screen to go a strange colour and then it won't respond to any other keypresses. This happens with 2.08 and 2.09, but not with 2.0 or 2.09win, although the menus in 2.09win run very slowly and I can't save (but that's not supported so ignore that). My system specs: AMD K6-200 S3 virge 4MB 128MB EDO RAM running in software mode 601KB conventional memory although I'm now getting slightly odd messages from mem, and when I start up BC3K (and exit it normally): code: dpmi memory: linear addr space 979024K total physical 130448K paging file size 848576K Max un/locked 116956K, 70304K Total unlocked/free 70496K, 70496K Largest free block: 119762944 bytes on typing mem: Memory Type Total Used Free ---------------- -------- -------- -------- Conventional 640K 39K 601K Upper 91K 91K 0K Reserved 0K 0K 0K Extended (XMS) 65,381K ? 129,744K ---------------- -------- -------- -------- Total memory 66,112K ? 130,345K Total under 1 MB 731K 130K 601K Total Expanded (EMS) 64M (67,108,864 bytes) Free Expanded (EMS) 16M (16,777,216 bytes) Largest executable program size 601K (615,136 bytes) Largest free upper memory block 0K (0 bytes) MS-DOS is resident in the high memory area. I used to get this problem whenever I connected my joystick (MS Sidewinder precision pro), so I happily played without it, but now I get it even though I've uninstalled my joystick. What I've done to try and rectify the problem: deleted all BC3k files and reinstalled from scratch (done this several times, both before and after uninstalling joystick and downloading patches again in case I had a corrupted patch) tried adding load mouse drivers instruction to autoexec.bat and config.sys (adding to config stopped windows loading, so I undid that) tried starting with and without configuring sound card, no effect, soundcard works fine. when I initially started up, I would get the blank screen with the music, but if I tried it again I get what I described above every time, basically the same as the blank screen, but with the startup menu visible. I know this is most likely due to something being wrong with my system, but does it seem familiar to anyone out there? If it does, could you please let me know how you got round the problem. I'm stuck, and starving from lack of play! If I've not been clear about anything, please let me know, too TTFN ------------------ Commander Ben Zwycky GCV Svoboda ISS07 Adjutant to the Fleet Commander In System Support (ISS) Fleet http://www.watson-jones.swinternet.co.uk/Svoboda "Nakonec pravda vitezi" (in the end the truth wins)

[rp]Ben awoke the next morning at 0640 hours, slightly earlier than normal, showered and ate a quick breakfast then put on his dress uniform. He passed through the almost empty corridors of the Svoboda, greeting a few crewmembers nearing the end of their night shift along the way. He entered the turboshaft at the end of the corridor and its doors closed behind him, cutting off what little sound came from the deck he had just left. "Deck three," he said quietly, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere as the capsule moved swiftly and efficiently down to its destination. He exited and headed for the airlock to his left. As he made the transition from ship to station he noticed the change in the sound his footsteps made, from the slight clang of hard deckplate to the hard clip of the stations polymeric floor covering. As he approached the end of the airlock corridor and identified himself to the security gate, he could barely make out the muffled sound of station activity on the other side. The gate opened and relative to the silence of the airlock, the undampened noise seemed an overwhelming roar. Ben picked his way through the busy corridors, feeling his tension rise the longer he spent in his least favourite environment. He reached a turboshaft and selected level 8, which contained the station's function rooms, briefing rooms and lecture theatres. The soft carpeted hallways and corridors were much quieter than the docking level below, and became quieter as he approached the function suites, enabling Ben's irritation to subside, but it was still a relief to enter the function room and hear the door close behind him. Silence again. He looked around the expansive room, designed to accommodate 500 people, but could take up to 1000 without getting uncomfortable. Those favours Karen had pulled had been worth it. It was immaculately decorated, with galcom banners hung majestically from the high ceiling and a large display screen immediately behind the podium displaying a summary of both pilot's service records. A picture of each of them in dress uniform topped each summary. The circular podium itself was ornately carved, with figures of eagles on both sides, and the insignias of the four galcom fleets in a diamond formation around the large galcom insignia in the centre. The rows of seats were thoughtfully arranged, so that everyone seated would have a clear view of the proceedings, but also have easy access to the front in case they wanted to come down and say something about the two heroes to be commemorated. There was ample room on either side of the podium for people to wait their turn to say their piece and the public address system was well set up to ensure everyone heard what was said. It was perfect. Ben sat down in one of the seats, relaxed his shoulders and absorbed the silence for a few moments, before in his mind repeatedly going over what he'd planned to say. He considered which bits to scrap and which bits to expand, and after several revisions he settled on the main points he would make. He never worked out exactly what he would say on any public occasion, his mind just didn't work best that way. Feeling as ready as ever would, he leant back and closed his eyes to enjoy the rarity of the silence that surrounded him.[rp] OK, the time is now 0730 or thereabouts. Frank and Jana will arrive about 0820, and the rest of my crew by 0845. The ceremony will start at 0900 sharp, so if you want to be around, incorporate whichever of these facts are appropriate to your posts. ------------------ Commander Ben Zwycky GCV Svoboda ISS07 Adjutant to the Fleet Commander In System Support (ISS) Fleet http://www.watson-jones.swinternet.co.uk/Svoboda "Nakonec pravda vitezi" (in the end the truth wins)

oo! Nasty! ------------------ Commander Ben Zwycky GCV Svoboda ISS07 Adjutant to the Fleet Commander In System Support (ISS) Fleet http://www.watson-jones.swinternet.co.uk/Svoboda "Nakonec pravda vitezi" (in the end the truth wins)

[rp]The shower felt good. The pounding jets of water rejuvenated parts of his body that he had given up for lost. His mind unclogged itself and his lungs cleared. The grime and odour of last night's activity was condemned to the waste water system and he emerged a new man. His shave was clean and precise, as were the folds of his fresh uniform. Frank looked at himself in the mirror. His eyes had their old sparkle back. It was time to go. He arrived at Jana's quarters and knocked on the door. There was no response. He tried again. Nothing. "Access Perscan." He scrolled down the list. "Flight Engineer 6 Flight Deck. Oh." He headed down, and as he went, he had the growing sensation of his hands being empty. He changed direction, and headed to the mess. He 'requisitioned' a serving tray and the ingredients to make Jana's favourite sandwich, then carefully made it, summoning up all his culinary talents (which this task stretched to the full). He placed a bowl over it as a makeshift lid and carried on his journey. Upon arriving, he saw her across the room, neatening off a piece of twisted titanium with a cutting torch. Even in her dirty overalls, thick gloves and welding mask, he could still tell it was her, and she still took his breath away. The systems engineer working with her lifted his head and then indicated the door. She turned and lifted her mask with a puzzled expression on her face, which instantly turned into a big smile, and she started to jog over, taking off her gloves. Frank smiled as well, and started towards her. Her smile grew even bigger and she broke into a run. Frank opened his arms and dropped the tray as she jumped into them. The tray landed with a clatter, ruining the sandwich Frank had prepared so carefully. His uniform got crumpled and smeared with all the muck from her overalls, but he didn't care. He'd made a little speech for this moment, but he'd forgotten it now, words weren't necessary. He was in the arms of his beloved and nothing was going to spoil this moment- laundry bills be damned. They stood there in each other's arms, with tears of relief rolling down their faces, neither of them wanting the moment to end. There wasn't a single heart in the room that wasn't warmed by the sight they made. "Frank-" she sobbed. "Shhh. It's Okay, I'm here." They were quiet for a little longer, but the moment had passed. They released their embrace and gazed deep into each other's eyes with a fresh appreciation of how much they meant to one another. "Wow," whispered Frank. He couldn't have summed it up any better. They linked arms and walked off to the mess, oblivious to the mess they had left behind. They were excused this irresponsibility this time. They walked silently and contentedly to their destination, both just happy to be together again, and neither daring to spoil the atmosphere with frivolous conversation. They arrived and sat down and began to talk. They talked about what had happened, what had gone through their minds and how much they'd missed each other. Then came the obvious question they'd both been avoiding. "So where do we go from here?" "I don't know." There was a long pause. They had both been so concerned with the here and now that they were both stumped by thoughts of the future. "It's been pretty intense recently, hasn't it?" said Frank "Yeah. Maybe we should calm down a bit." "OK, let's not rush things. Get to know each other properly, and see where it goes, without cutting ourselves off from everyone else." "Sounds like a good plan. Put all this stuff behind us and move on." "Yeah," Frank said slowly. That last remark stirred a thought in his mind. A memory of a decision he'd had to make. A loose end that needed to be tied. He mentioned his thought to Jana. She agreed with the idea. He then stood and headed up to the bridge. "I think it will help everyone deal with any remaining issues and move on." "I agree," replied Ben, "I'll see what can be arranged." "Thank you, sir." Frank turned and left the room, looking forward to finally having all this mess behind him. Ben switched on his comms terminal. "Okaaay Karen, you still know any of the administration staff at Galcom HQ?" "Lots of them, why?" "I think we might need to ask for a few favours" Three hours later the following message was broadcast to all the Galcom ships in the area, and inside the station itself: MEMORIAL SERVICE FOR INTERCEPTOR PILOTS GREGORY ROBINSON AND FRANK MORGAN AKA 'CAVALRY' AND 'DEADBOY' TO BE HELD IN FUNCTION ROOM 6 OF GALCOM HQ. ALL WELCOME TO ATTEND.[/rp] So, anyone who wants to come along and say anything or just watch the proceedings is welcome. I believe even DeSylva might make his prescence known. Feel free to post about your responses to the invitation, but don't post about being at the service itself until I make my first post about it, please? ------------------ Commander Ben Zwycky GCV Svoboda ISS07 Adjutant to the Fleet Commander In System Support (ISS) Fleet http://www.watson-jones.swinternet.co.uk/Svoboda "Nakonec pravda vitezi" (in the end the truth wins) Oh, I also edited the big cliffhanger posts for a bit more tension. [This message has been edited by Ben Zwycky (edited 02-22-2000).]

Well, the website's still here, but it looks pretty much abandoned for the last year and a half. Maybe we need some people to defect over to earthcom to stop it dying out ------------------ Commander Ben Zwycky GCV Svoboda ISS07 Adjutant to the Fleet Commander In System Support (ISS) Fleet http://www.watson-jones.swinternet.co.uk/Svoboda "Nakonec pravda vitezi" (in the end the truth wins)

Cheers, Badger. I could have guessed that you would like it. What's happened to that other BC story you were planning? Would be cool to work with you again. What do other people think? Was there anything that didn't seem to fit properly or anything? Later, ------------------ Commander Ben Zwycky GCV Svoboda ISS07 Adjutant to the Fleet Commander In System Support (ISS) Fleet http://www.watson-jones.swinternet.co.uk/Svoboda "Nakonec pravda vitezi" (in the end the truth wins)

[rp]Frank awoke sluggishly. The bright light burned his eyes and he shut them again tightly. He shielded his eyes with one hand before tentatively opening them again. He slowly opened his hands slightly to allow him to assess his surroundings. As far as he could tell he was in his bunk, and he was hung over. Not the worst hangover he'd ever had by a long way, but enough to make getting out of bed noticeably more difficult than normal. 'What was I doing last night?' Various fragmented images flashed through his mind as his brain attempted to collate them into a history of the evening. One particularly strong image was of his sidearm turning over and over, and he suddenly remembered what he was thinking at that point. 'Whoa. I nearly did it, didn't I?' Then came the image of Jana standing at her door, then sitting on her bunk, talking to him. The soundtrack was switched off, but he remembered feeling both comforted and confused at the same time. Then came the image of talking with Firehail in the Svoboda's bar. The conversation itself was vague, but he remembered it had to do with Jana. Hopefully he hadn't been as drunk and he could ask him about what happened. 'Next priority: try to remember what the best thing for a hangover is. When you're hung over you are come on, you know this dehydrated! That's it! You also havelow somethinglow blood? Uhmmlow blood sugar! Yes! 2-0 to brain! We're on a roll! Right, so we need something watery but sweet.' Frank put on some dark glasses and dragged himself down to the bar. He sat down on a stool and ordered: "Two pints of orange juice- very dilute." Since Commander Zwycky was so fond of the stuff, there was always a plentiful supply of orange juice on board the Svoboda. After downing the contents of the two glasses and ordering the same again, Frank's head started to clear a bit and the pounding headache died away. The lights didn't seem quite so bright now, and Frank looked around slowly. While he was facing the other way, he heard someone sit behind him. He turned to see who it was. It was Firehail. "Hey, buddy. You weren't in your quarters, so I figured you'd come down here. You're looking a little rough, there. You sleep OK?" "You should have seen me half an hour ago. What happened last night?" "You mean you haven't been to see her yet?" "Who?" "Jana." "Oh, did I say I would? I really can't remember that much. Can you?" Firehail went on to describe their conversation and the events of the day as best he could recall (which was significantly better than Frank.) As he went on, vague blurry pictures and fragments of conversations started to make more sense, and he regained his sense of urgency to go and see Jana. "Wait a sec there, buddy. You're not exactly in pristine condition there," indicating Frank's crumpled and stinking uniform, morning shadow and none too fragrant breath. "You finish off those two drinks, then go have a shave and a shower and get yourself presentable. I think she deserves that, don't you?" "Yeah. Thanks for all your help, I don't know what to say." "Hey, you're my copilot. We're a team. We look out for each other. Now get going."[/rp] What do people think so far, is it good, is it believable? I'm speaking way outside my own experience for some of these things. Not sure how much more I'll do. At least another two posts, how much more than that depends on whether I'll have any events to react to, but I could make some stuff up, I suppose. ------------------ Commander Ben Zwycky GCV Svoboda ISS07 Adjutant to the Fleet Commander In System Support (ISS) Fleet http://www.watson-jones.swinternet.co.uk/Svoboda "Nakonec pravda vitezi" (in the end the truth wins)

[rp]"Well, gentlemen, How did the tests come up?" "Negative" "Nothing?" "Well, it's not been tampered with, or copied or transmitted anywhere, so as far as we can tell this document hasn't been leaked, but not that it didn't deserve to be." "What do you mean?" "Well, whoever administered this document should be sacked. They didn't validate the contents of the report, obey standard encryption procedures, or check on the location where it should be sent. In an intelligence organisation, or any organisation, that's very slack security." "I guess the reorganisation on the fleet has taken its toll on the administration side of things." "I would suggest the fleet needs to review its security procedures, and do a thorough analysis on all important documents to check for leaks. You know the old saying 'Where there's lax security, there's someone taking advantage of it.'" "Yes, I see. I'll have to pass on your recommendations to the fleet commander."[/rp] Well, I hope you don't mind my little twist there, Alun. I think it throws the story open to more people (if Ristar recommends a fleetwide security sweep ) ------------------ Commander Ben Zwycky GCV Svoboda ISS07 Adjutant to the Fleet Commander In System Support (ISS) Fleet http://www.watson-jones.swinternet.co.uk/Svoboda "Nakonec pravda vitezi" (in the end the truth wins)

[rp]Ben was still becoming accustomed to his new position as Adjutant to the fleet commander of ISS. It was an incredible honour, and an awesome responsibility to be the galactic eyes and ears of the fleet commander, and act as his representative in many situations. His security clearance was only one below command level. His parents had been so proud when he had told them. Even with the Zwycky familys illustrious heritage, no one had ever reached such a position. Not that his head was in the clouds- he understood his duties and responsibilities and was capable of them, but he still found joy in the title of his personnel file. After filing his latest tactical report, Ben decided to head over to Renegade stations main bar to relax, as his latest tour of duty was now over. As he walked through the station corridors, he thought to himself as he often did- that he would have liked to have someone to share this life of his with. Someone like Jana or his thoughts momentarily drifted to the girl who had unknowingly caused him so much pain, the one he grew up with, who captivated him all those years. He dismissed those thoughts. They never did any good. He reached the bar and spotted the commander of the Tactical Support Wing in a conversation with a commander he wasnt familiar with. His voice seemed strangely familiar though, which probably meant theyd been introduced. It happened a lot. Ben just caught the end of their conversation. This might just be bigger than we thought. Hi Alun! Hows it going? Hi Ben! Not too bad. How are things in escort wing? Josh pushing you all too hard? Not too hard, not too slack. He seems to be adjusting well to his new position, and making good use of us all. I really feel like weve been doing some good out there. Thats encouraging. Hey, I hear congratulations are in order! You heard about that? Yeah, were all pretty happy about that. A lot of us could see it happening, but didnt expect it quite so soon. It looks pretty likely theyll want me to do the ceremony, which will be a new challenge, but an enjoyable one I hope. They make a great couple. What was that you were talking about just now? Here, take a look at this. Alun handed him the report. Ah, yes, I heard about this situation. Hey, theres a page missing! Thats what Im worried about. You think its a lapse in security? Its a possibility. Really? If someone was leaking this report, theyd have to be pretty amateurish to make a mistake like deleting a page. I still think its worth looking into. Well, thats up to you, but if youre that worried, why not let Briggs and Elworthy do a residual data analysis on it and the backup of the original file to check for tampering or copying. Theyre pretty experienced in that area, and they know what to look for. Thats an idea[/rp] Well, sorry Im late, Alun, but Ive been balancing a lot of things lately. Ill let you decide whether you want to use my ex-hackers or not and what they find if you do. ------------------ Commander Ben Zwycky GCV Svoboda ISS07 Adjutant to the Fleet Commander In System Support (ISS) Fleet http://www.watson-jones.swinternet.co.uk/Svoboda "Nakonec pravda vitezi" (in the end the truth wins)

[rp]Before he could reach his quarters, he was met by Firehail. "You done now? You still look like you need a drink. Come on." Frank went along with him, because he didn't have the energy to make his own decision. After a couple of drinks, he became more talkative. "That was quite a eulogy you gave me, in the corridor." "I meant every word but I was talking about him, not you. You're not him. Stop trying to change the subject! So what did you say?" "I said I needed to think about it, it didn't feel right." "You did what?! Why?" "She loved that guy, he did all the work. I feel like I'm just stealing his life." "Uhh- Newsflash! The guy is dead. He's gone. You're not him, and it's your life. Anyway, they broke up. You're not stealing her." "I just feel like I didn't earn any of this." "What are you talking about? You don't earn love, someone either loves you or they don't and believe me, she does! It's like a gift- you accept it, you appreciate it, you enjoy the fact that a girl as fantastic as that thinks you are the best thing that ever happened to her." "I suppose it took a lot of guts to say what she said." "You bet it did. There's an awful lot of guys on board who wish they had the chance you've got. Don't throw it away." Frank sat and thought for a while, his brain slightly slowed by the 'necessary fluids' he had taken on board. "I suppose I'd better go and see her, then," and stood up, finding the exercise a little trickier than normal. Firehail stood and put his hand on Frank's shoulder to steady him. "Whoa, there. I think you'd better leave it 'til the morning. I don't think she'd appreciate your breath right now." "What're you talking about?" Frank puzzled, then cupped both hands over his nose and mouth and exhaled heavily. He seemed to consider the scent as if tasting a fine wine, then replied "Hmmm Maybe you're right," with a slow grin. He was helped back to his quarters in a very good mood. He stumbled into his bunk and fell asleep where he lay to dream about the wonderful things that would happen tomorrow.[/rp] ------------------ Commander Ben Zwycky GCV Svoboda ISS07 Adjutant to the Fleet Commander In System Support (ISS) Fleet http://www.watson-jones.swinternet.co.uk/Svoboda "Nakonec pravda vitezi" (in the end the truth wins)

The number before the slash is how many of those spare parts you need to fully repair your ship and support vessels. The number after is how many you have. Yes,you are correct you can't choose which cargo bay to put things in. Not sure why that is, but it's not a major hassle. 2.09 hasn't been around for that long, so you haven't missed out on all these new features for that long, but it's been exciting for all of us who've been around for a while seeing this great game grow and develop into its current form, and anticipating all that we are yet to see in the sequels, so maybe you have missed out on that and on roleplay (you poor thing!), but don't worry, we all forgive you and you're here now, so it's all ended well. Enjoy, ------------------ Commander Ben Zwycky GCV Svoboda ISS07 Adjutant to the Fleet Commander In System Support (ISS) Fleet http://www.watson-jones.swinternet.co.uk/Svoboda "Nakonec pravda vitezi" (in the end the truth wins) [This message has been edited by Ben Zwycky (edited 02-09-2000).]