Veeci

Ic / Vee / Underworld Forest Clearing: Like a pillar of scorching embers, a flare shot into the heavens, forming the unmistakable Autobot insignia. Screams of defiance and agony filled the humid air just ahead. Vee gunned it, pushing his vehicle form through the trees and brush beyond a safe speed, thick, jungle mud splashing against the side of his chassis. The canopy above began to thin and a clearing unveiled itself just up ahead. The scout slowed and morphed as he neared the edge of the glade. He would be a worthless sniper if he didn't exercise caution. Though he couldn't see clearly into the interior of the clearing, Vee did notice a grey and black Autobot facing away, just a hundred meters to his left. Without hesitation Vee fell to a crouch and whipped out his own rifle. Taking aim, he skillfully lined up a shot to cut cleanly through the targets skull.As Vee squeezed the trigger a sharp pain ran up his spine, throwing off the shot to the right. Taking his eyes off the scope he noticed a myriad of tiny creatures crawling up his legs and into his inner-workings. Within moments the Decepticon's vision began to blur as his conciousness left his metallic form. Ooc: That awkward moment when you post an entry and the topic falls silent...

Ooc (@TNG): Time is always a bit bizarre and twisted in TbRpgs. If I could have written and posted that entry earlier I would have. I meant for it to fit in while your party was battling the newly dubbed "Spitter Bats", so you wouldn't have noticed Vee's escape. However, for the sake of continuing the story, we'll say that Alphonus caught a glimpse of him as he vanished into the thicker part of the forest on the edge of the clearing. You have the option to pursue the unknown figure into the brush or deal with the battle wounds of your teammates.Edit: I just realized this sounded a bit condescending. I do apologize for that; I meant the above in the lightest sense possible.

Ic / Vee / Underworld Mountains: "Anyone out there... Won't last much longer..." an encrypted distress signal crackled over a specially allocated emergency band. Vee didn't need any time to ponder. He was available to render assistance and was fairly close by. Turning to leave, he heard an all to familiar sound in the distance behind him. Gunfire. Startled, Vee gazed up the mountain and towards the northern sky. An ominous black cloud of living flesh swarmed about, dive-bombing what could only by the squad of Autobots on the other side of the mountain. Streaks of plasma volleys sliced into the twisting dark mass. Shocked and a bit frightened at the sight of the foretold creatures of the forest, the Decepticon scout transformed into his vehicle mode and sped off towards the origin of the beacon a few dozen kilometers off.

Ooc: G'day everyone. I heard you were searching for some new players? Vee's profile has been pre-approved by Basilisk this morning....Name: Vehement-Cartographer (Vee)Faction: DecepticonClass: ScoutAppearance: Proportionately rather lean and lanky, Vee's figure stands 4.5 meters tall with a predominant coloration of teal-blue and grey, scattered white calligraphic runes enveloping his left arm. Often while scouting, Vee will don a jungle-camoflauge cloak that matches the surrounding ambient infrared signature allowing him to blend in on a wider spectrum.Alt-Mode: Vee transforms into a Cybertronian light reconnaissance vehicle, similar in appearance to a real-world Japanese Komatsu LAV.Weapons: While in bipedal mode, Vee choices to utilize a rather heterodoxical choice of weaponry. Primarily he uses a long-range, semi-automatic rifle that fires armor-piercing, tungsten rounds to spy and pick off targets from afar. During melee combat the scout dual-wields a pair of Energon Hook-Swords which glow and crackle at 800 degrees Celsius. Though the 'Con doesn't use any true weapons while in vehicle mode, Vee can use his stock of flares and smoke countermeasures.Skills: An avid tracker and marksman, Vee is a quick, efficient, and most importantly, silent hunter. Traits: As with most Decepticons, Vee is cold and calculative, however, to the contrary he's also quite honorable, making a noticeable effort to maintain his moral conscious through the war. Socially he's rather distant from the general Decepticon populace, finding most bots to be either intolerable, dull, or incompetent.Weakness: Being trained explicitly for one on one combat, Vee is formidable in a duel, but can easily be overwhelmed if attacked by multiple enemies from different directions. As a result, he prefers to provide a support role rather than be in the middle of a fray.Bio: Before the war broke out Vee acted as a shaman for a little-known transtheistic cult. There seemed to be very little tolerance for neutrality in the uprising campaign, so Vee was forced to choice sides. The sole reason he joined the Decepticons came down to statistical analysis; when you crunch the numbers, they were more likely to be victorious than the Autobots. Remaining alive was a key priority. Though he's not metaphorically sitting on the fence, Vee's loyalty isn't particularly steadfast either, as he doesn't consider himself a true Decepticon. To be honest, he isn't particularly fond of either sides ideals or propaganda. The scout arrived on Nibiru with the second wave of Decepticon ships and has since, despite the infamous rumors, been exploring and mapping the forests of the main island....Ic / Vee / Underworld Mountains: Three... Four... Five enemy targets. It'd be reckless and foolhardy to single-handedly brawl with a quintet of even incompetent Autobots simultaneously. Certainly a skirmish with what appears to be a mixed group of scouts, soldiers, and generals would be a death sentence.The Decepticon scout pulled away from his rifle's scope, rose to a crouch, and slid back behind the moss-riden stone ridge he'd been observing from. Silently sweeping his way through the thick brush and shadows, Vee descended the opposite slope from the Autobot scouting party. Upon putting a little over two kilometers of distance and a mountain between him and the adversaries the Decepticon opened up a comm-line back to New Kaon."1726 hours ~ Autobot scouting party of five detected on the Northwestern quadrant of the Underworld Mountains. Requesting new orders, back-up, or reassignment."Ooc: Just for clarification, the Autobot group is the one containing Evo, Crosswise, Firestorm, Alphonus, and Wideload. Oh, and Zyke, perhaps I could meet up with the outgoing Decepticon party?

Ic / Military Sales, Northern Kiserre (@Koth):Apearing over the northward horizon, a cargo-ship radioed to the mainland."...The is the Saari Ascended Freedom requesting permission to aproach and dock. We've come in response to your declaration of willingness to sell military tech. Perhaps a buisness deal can be arranged?..."Ic / Forum of Nations "Elixer" Meeting, Alquileon (@Everyone?):Clad in the gray and cerulean attire of a Saari medical officer, a young woman spoke up."I won't hide the fact that I'm quite dubious that this "elixer" can accomplish what you claim and, pardon my bluntness, but this deal reeks of a stereotypical scam. However, I speak for my division that, on the offchance that these outlandish assertions are true, it's certainly worth the leap of faith to find out. We'll purchase eight units."Ic / Sultan's Feast, Anitalian (@Toast):Spine straight and hands clasped behind his back, Oikein Kaksi intently peered down upon the Anitalian Sultan's palace three-hundred meters beneath his feet. Turning away from the reinforced-plexiglass window, the diarch stepped behind the controls of his leviathan of an aircraft and began landing procedures. The Triumphant Recollection gracefully touched down and a pneumatic ramp dropped from the rear of the cabin. With an escort on either side of him, Oikein decended out into the foreign air. ---------- Ooc: I've been on a trip the past few days, so just a quick Ic while I have the opportunity to snag some free Wi-Fi.

Ooc: First things first, I do want to apologize for my absence. I won't delve into detail, but over the last few months various health, social/family, educational, and computer problems have arisen. As long as you'll let me stay I'd like to stay a part of this RP, it certainly has plenty of potential, however my activity will most likely be erratic for the near future. Oh, and Toast, I think it's probably safe to assume neither of us have a strong desire to Ic first contact since it's such a repetitive process. I 'spose we can just say they have a neutral political standing and have a thorough understanding of each others languages unless you want something different.And as it's now Sunday here's my current Industry Report thinga-ma-ding.Provinces: [*]C-23: Capitol State (+60IP)[*]B-24: Large State (+40IP) (Upgrade Mar-24)[*]B-23: Medium State (+30IP) (Upgrade Mar-24)[*]C-24: Medium State (+30IP) (Upgrade Mar-24)[*]D-23: Medium State (+30IP) (Upgrade Mar-24)Units: [*]2 Alto Albatrosses (Airship Missile Platform)
- 70IP (35IP x2)[*]6 Alto Korkea (Fighter/ Interceptor)- 50IP (25IP/3 x2)[*]75 Battalions (75,000 Men)Research and Development: [*]20IP for one week towards R&D of photovoltaics. (Complete)[*]20IP for one week towards further development and implementation of ocean-based energy-turbines. (Complete)[*]30IP for two weeks towards development of submersible watercraft. (Mar-18)Building:N/ATotal Industry:+190IP -120IP -30IP = 40IP RemainingNews: [*]After much debate within the Saari bureaucracy foreign citizens will be allowed to travel into the country, however security screening will be significantly heightened for those select individuals.[*]The two Saari diarchs agree to attend the Forum of Nations when it is held.[*]Fossil-fuel independence continues to decrease; wind, tidal, and solar generators account for over 90% of total electrical consumption. Vi-Sähkö Corp. (Green-Electric Corp.) becomes the most influential company within Saaristo.fibonacci

Ooc: Well, school's out for winter break, so without further ado...Ic / Western Coast of Saaristo(@Alex):News of the unidentified vessel quickly climbed the chain of command and within a matter of hours an airship laden with specialists appeared over the gray horizon to intercept the newcomer. The seventy-five-meter, civilian-class zeppelin, The Conscious Liberty, descended, hovering a mere ten meters above Captain Tek's ship, embalming it in shadow. A sinewy nylon-ladder fell out of the sky, the end thudding upon the forward-deck. A stream of navy-blue wool-bundled figures, blown about by the stingingly strong Arctic winds, climbed down, coming face to face to the foreigners.One woman stepped in front of the others, distinguishing herself as the spokesperson of the group. Removing her glove, she extended her hand."I am the one known as Johtaja alk Länsi, director of the newly established First-Contact Contingent. Welcome to Saaristo." ---------- Ic / Northeastern Aquileon(@Lloyd):Several months had proceeded since the first encounter with the nation of Aquileon. Overall, things had been going quite well; all of the linguist and many of the other crew-members of The Borealis had successfully assimilated the foreign language into their vocabularies. However, their work was not complete; diplomacy was still a top priority.The two diplomats of the expedition requested to see a high-standing government official when possible. In response they were informed of the Forum of Nations. Whether or not the Aquileonese wanted to make pre-political decisions was up to them to decide. ---------- Ic / Northern Coast of Anitalian(@Toast):The sounds of cracking ice echoed in the winds behind The Aurora as it traversed its was through the frozen seas south of the Saarii mainland. Several days passed and the exploratory vessel escaped the icy grip of the north. As the sun rose the crew spoted a landmass along the horizon and sailed closer to investigate for signs of habitation.(Ooc: Meh Ic, but hey, first-contact is more or less just a repeating process at this point anyway.) ---------- Ic/ Undisclosed Location, Jääteräs (Northern Saaristo):The city of Jääteräs is like an iceberg, seemingly harmless, weak, and miniscule, that is until you look below the surface, quite literally. But calling Jääteräs just a city would be degrading to its name; it's also Saaristo's largest mining operation, its greatest forge, the central hub for the development, testing, and manufacturing of its technology. Jääteräs is the single locomotive engine that allows the passenger car, Pääkenttä, to get anywhere.Five prominent engineers clad in formal, maroon garments sat in a dimly lit conference room, impatiently tapping their feet and strumming their fingers across the surface of the glossy, glass table dominating the center of the space. The soft hum of electric motors broke the stiff atmosphere as the sliding doors glided open; everyone snapped to out of their haze and sat up straight"I apologize for being late, some urgent matters needed attending to in the west. Shall we begin?"Vasen Kaksi, one of two diarchs governing Saaristo, slid into the chair at the head of the table and rested his head on his interlocked hands."First things first, what's news do you have on the research on photovoltaics?"A young, particularly scrawny man spoke up, "Progress has been swift, sir. Our first prototypes are in testing currently, and if we continue to make advancements at our current rate, we should have the first functional panels connected to the grid in three months. Smaller, portable versions for use on the Albatrosses and ships should be achieved fairly quickly beyond that.""Wonderful, and what news have you on the new ocean-turbines on the southern shores?"A gruff-looking man flipped through a stack of papers and began to speak, "Several difficulties have been met, particularly since the dispersal of the storm-barriers altered many ocean currents. However, installation and connection to the power-lines should be complete in a few months.""Hmm... Very well. Ah, Aurinko, you had mentioned in an earlier correspondence that you wished to share a proposal. While we're all here, now would a suitable time to vote on it.""Of course." Aurinko, the female aeronautics engineer bent down and pulled out a blueprint from her sack. "Here is a design for a new kind of aircraft; it's working name is the "Korkea". Its design is based off of an abandoned concept form about a century ago that was impossible to create do to technological restrictions of the time. However, we now have the capability to create this style of craft, and it seems that its specifications would perfectly match what we've been looking for in an defensive-escort for our Albatross airships. If our predictions are correct, this'll be the fastest aircraft in Saarii history, shattering the previous records and perhaps reaching speeds beyond twice the speed of sound."Vasen stroked his chin as he looked over the proposed craft's design. "...You have my full support. Begin on this project as hastily as possible. I'll worry about the funding if you can deal with getting this metal arrowhead into the sky.""Yes si-" The crackling of the the intercom broke into the conversation, "...bzzz... Diarch Vasen, your immediate attention is requested... Your airship is being prepped as we speak... bzzz..."The diarch stood up, "I best be off then. I bid you all farewell." With a twirl of his leather-coat and the hum of the sliding-door Vasen had gone. ---------- Ooc:New Vehicle:Vehicle Class: Alto F-01 "Korkea"Vehicle Description: Knowing the vulnerability of the Albatross, Alto Air-Engineering developed the Korkea as an escort-fighter to defend the valuable airships. As an interceptor, the Korkea is designed for agility and speed, lacking substantial armor. It's capable of speeds just over Mach 2.2.Weaponry: 6 AAMs (10 kilo payload), and a nose-mounted, 20mm rotary cannon.Upkeep/Build time/Build Cost: 25IP for 3, 12 Day construction period.Construction begun on 6 Korkea, due to completion in 12 days (Feb-28).It feels good to finally make a decent-sized Ic for once...

Ooc: Sure thing Toast, I don't have time for an Ic now, but I will tomorrow. And the reason I went to Lloyd first was because we made a few diplomatic agreements before the game started, so it made sense if I discovered him first.As for the industry report:Provinces: [*]C-23: Capitol State (+60IP)[*]B-24: Medium State (+30IP) (Upgrade Mar-3)[*]B-23: Small State (+20IP) (Upgrade Mar-3)[*]C-24: Small State (+20IP) (Upgrade Mar-3)[*]D-23: Small State (+20IP) (Upgrade Mar-3)Units: [*]2 Alto Albatrosses (Airship Missile Platform)- 70IP (35IPx2)[*]67 Battalions (67,000 Men)Research and Development: [*]20IP for one week towards R&D of photovoltaics. (Feb-11/Feb-19)[*]20IP for one week towards further development and implementation of ocean-based energy-turbines. (Feb-11/Feb-19)Building:N/ATotal Industry:+150IP -70IP -20IP(Feb-19) -20IP(Feb-19) = 40IP Remainingfibonacci

Ic / Aquileon Greeting Hall:The captain and the three linguists of the expedition stepped into the hall, intrigued by the alien architecture. But they had more important, pressing matters at hand. After establishing names with hand gestures and pointing, the specialists took a seat at the table and got to work exchanging the Saarii syllabary, dictionary, and book on language structure for the Aquileon equivalents. (Ooc: That's fun to say...) Reynolds stood back, watching the process unfold before him. His hand found it's way into his coat pocket, confirming his pistol was there in case something went dreadfully wrong. ---------- Ooc: [*]20 IP for one week towards R&D of photovoltaics. (2-19)[*]20 IP for one week towards further development and implementation of ocean-based energy-turbines. (2-19)Oh, btw Alex, would you like for us to post weekly industry reports akin to what we did in Starscape? And if we do, can I request we have a standard form?

Ooc: Dang Koth, I leave midway in writing a post and come back and you've nearly written the exact same thing. Ic / Northeastern coast of Aquileon:Only the faint light from a full moon lit the path of the Borealis. Captain Reynolds stood resolute at the helm of the ship, tirelessly searching for the even the smallest sign of civilization. Scribbling illegible notes into the fibers of his coffee-stained log, he gazed up. Seeing nothing he returned to his papers only to double-take. Snatching his head back up he gazed out off the window of the bridge. There, standing on a pole was a small, white form looking at him, illuminated by the cabin lights. A seabird, but unlike one he had ever seen. Adrenaline spiked through his bloodstream. He flailed for the ship's microphone."Crew, I hate to wake you at this ungodly hour, but I think you ought'a see this."One by one the crew began to trickle into their posts, searching for stray radio signals or signs of land. No more than an hour went by and lights began to be spotted through the dense fog. A single, elogated, bass-note rang from the ship's horn and sliced through the night.

Civilization Form:Name: Saaristo (derived adjective: Saarii)History: The earliest know record of the Saarii people dates back some seven millennia ago and ever since they've been growing and prospering, thriving off their northern homeland.The chain of islands that make up Saaristo are home to two prominent biomes, the north consisting mostly of mountainous fjords and glaciers, the south dominated by rolling fields and grassy knolls. The shores of Saaristo conjoin to the polar ice-sheet, demanding ice-breakers for travel by sea.Saaristo hasn't had a large war for several centuries; the lack of any true military is a clear testament to that. However, with the clearing of the storms plans are being formulated to construct a force for self-defence.For about seventy years Saaristo has been governed as a technocratic diarchy. The current two heads of state are a pair of mid-age twins, Vasen and Oikein Kaksi. The duo of brothers have led to an economic boom and are nearly universally approved.A combination of scientific discovery and theophobia from various religious wars of the past have resulted in a society where the concept of religion is foreign and its only emergences is in the occasional untrusted, new-age cult.The race of people that inhabit the Saaristo archipelago have naturally low pigmintation levels, a condition akin to albanism, but not nearly to the same extreme. This results in most people having slate eyes, pale skin, and greyish-white hair. As a result it has become a common social trend to dye one's hair a vibrant shade.Pääkenttä, the capital and center of development, lies in the midst of the great rolling plains of southern Saaristo, the great Joki river spliting the metropolis down the center. The city is an eccentric, cultural melting pot; street-performers, merchants, and artists are abundant around it's many cobbled-sidewalks, sqaures, and subway tunnels. The smell of freshly baked breads and sizzling, sautéed meats fill the crisp, hyperborean air. Dozens of glimmering zeppelins dominant the city's skyline, serving as an inter-city transit system, as mobile labs, cargo-transports, and as toys for the adventurous and wealthy. The progression of Saaristo's culture and deveopment is illuminated within Pääkenttä's architecture, a mix of older, stone and mortar buildings with the new, whimsical, organic, steel and glass constructs.Cultural traits: Generally Saarii people are technologicaly and scientifically minded. Saarii society is very libreal, though quite meritocratic, focusing on effectively and efficiently acomplishing tasks without much attention to the actual methods used. Enviormental consiousness is prominent throughout their culture; over 80% of the energy demand is fufilled by massive wind turbines spralled across the grassy plains.Location: Continent 8 [*]C-23: Capitol State-----------Pääkenttä (Pa-ken-ta)[*]B-24: Medium State-----------Jääteräs (Ya-Terra-s)[*]B-23: Small State[*]C-24: Small State[*]D-23: Small StateVehicle Forms:Vehicle Class: Alto Z-23 "Albatross" (Militarized)Vehicle Description: The Alto Albatross is a two-hundred-meter, rigid, helium-lifted airship that, up until recently, has only been used for civilian purposes. Due to many already being in production and the extreme versatility of these craft, they were an obvious choice for quick militarization. Even with kevlar skin the nature of zeppelins make them vunerable, as a result they have been converted into long-range missile platforms.Weaponry: 30 1.5 metic-ton, medium-range, ASM cruise-missiles (250 kilo payload), 30 AAMs (10 kilo payload), and four short-range gatling guns for anti-fighter weapontry. The cargohold has the capablility of holding 160 tons of freight.Upkeep/Build time/Build Cost: 35IP, 2 Week construction period. ---------- Ic / Southern Coast of Saaristo:Growing ever fainter, the eternally rumbling and churning wall of clouds and thunder faded away into oblivion. Oikein Kaksi stood, watching as the impenetrable boundaries of his world disolved away into nothingness. Glistering crystals of ice began to sprout on his graying beard, raging winds rippling through his wool-lined, leather trench coat. The man gazed over his shoulder, down towards the shoreline thousands of feet below him. With one final glance at the history-altering moment before him, the diarch sealed the observation hatch and decended down the rungs underneath his feet into the belly of the Triumphant Recollection, the first of only two military airships in the Saarii air-force.The sound of his steel-toed boots reverberated throughout the zeppelin as he crossed the grated gangways of its innards. Entering the bridge, he got on his knee and softly spoke to the ensign manning the radio station. "Send a message back to Pääkenttä. Tell Diarch Vasen that indeed, the meterologists were right, the Oceanic Barrier has disipated. And signal for the icebreaker, the Borealis, to begin Genesis protocols. A team of specialists was gathered aboard when we first heard news of the shifting conditions out at sea."Without awaiting for a response he retired to his personal quarters. Something told him he wouldn't get many opportunities to rest the next few weeks. ---------- The massive rotors of the Borealis rumbled to life and the cargo-ship churned out of the harbor (C23) heading southwest into the uncharted realms. During several occasions over the last century many things hinted at the existence of other groups of humans elsewhere: A foreign, twelve-second radio transmission intercepted through the static of the storm. Several instances of plastic trash washing ashore, covered with languages that no one on the island had ever seen. And most recently, what appeared to be an artificial probe of sorts seen orbiting over the planet.It was finally time to see who these people were and to solve the mysteries of the unknown world.

Just a few more things Alex, more nit-picky than anything, but still legitimate questions: [*]How many millennium of recorded history can our civilizations date back?[*]How are you going to mark specific players territories on the map, which looks quite good btw.[*]Could we have a list of the average IP cost for different types of units?Also, how do these banners look?Thing-ama-ding OneThing-ama-ding Two

Thanks for answering. Though, I do have a few more random ones. [*]Will temperature bands be the same? i.e. The central area of the map being the warmer equator and colder, icier seas farther north and south?[*]How historically accurate do you want our tech levels to be? Are we limited to what people did, or what they were capable of? To be specific, could I have large, floating platforms in the ocean, and smaller, zeppelin-rigged flying platforms in the sky? [*]Obviously, if different civilizations developed separate of each-other their languages would be completely different. Are we hand-waving that issue like in IL and SS?

First things first Alex, I'm in full support of the proposed Rpg; I've been considering doing something similar for some time but this looks far superior to what I could have come up with. Bravo. However, I do have a few comments/questions: [*]How large is each providence/block in square kilometers?[*]Is each block limited to one city/town? Or can there be multiple in each?[*]I personally would love to see espionage take a larger role in this than it has in Starscape, so for clarification, there will not be any "super-sensors" in this game, correct?[*]Could you give some more detailed, example units so we have an idea of a general IP cost?[*]Would you consider changing the name "Super City", since it's abbreviation is the same as "Small City"?[/ocd][*]Would it be possible to change the ten and fifteen day upgrade times to seven and fourteen respectively, or would that throw of the balance too much?[*]Should there be a cool-down time for funneling IP to upgrade cities; I can see that being heavily abused. If you had 105 spare IP you could upgrade any city instantly and immediately use the IP for something else.[*]Is each nation limited to one capital, or can there be many?[*]Could you try and explain the doubling IP thing-a-ma-ding for colonizing; I missed what you were trying to say.And while we're going ahead and claiming continents, I fancy the archipelago, number eight, myself.

Ooc: I suppose that's true... but I've been meaning to do something for a while and I wanted to, at least, get to do it once. :PIc (1-36): The crippled Tinte trudged forward without a concern for its own well-being. Massive cracks began to appear across the skull-plate of the ship. Then suddenly, it was gone, nothing but black empty space and stars where the beast once stood. The two Wetter'ballon appeared behind the TAP fleet, discouraged by the apparent lack of friendly vessels. The duo blipped off the radar as they activated their stealth fields.The TAP fleet was left in silence.Ic (1-35): "... It seems we have no other option. Very well, we concede this system to the Osalieli, and you alone. However, we refuse to allow the Natsirt to gain control of our homes and we must leave to defend our brethren. Will you grant us this?"Ooc:Fleet Standings:1-36: [*]1 Tinte (8 Fighters)[*]3 Wetter'Ballon[*]3 Klein1-35: [*]1 Tinte (10 FIghters)[*]2 Wetter'Ballon[*]4 Klein1-42: [*]2 Wetter'Ballon[*]1 KleinSingle stealthed Wetter'ballon in 1-39, warping to 2-5.And I believe you've got 1-42 and 35 mixed up.

Ic (1-36): Blood filled the void. Victory over Kaltveide was not an option. The Leben were outgunned and outnumbered. The fighters and small class vessels delved into the atmosphere in retreat, many venting billowing smoke. Only the Tinte stood behind. The massive, one-thousand-meter-long squid began to fire its cannons into the TAP fleet, gaining speed as it closed in."What's the integrity of the main skull-plate?""Dropping quickly sir, sixty-seven percent," a grim pilot replied."Engine status?""Pushing eighty percent.""Make it ninety. How's the oxygen garden?""I don't think this it the ti... Ah, I see... Fully functional, sir. We have a full supply in storage as well.""Excellent. Onward and fear not pain or death!"Sparks began to fly as metal rounds collided with the chitinous armor of the Leben flagship, a trail of blood lining the path it had taken. Deep beneath the surface tremors were felt as the first salvo collided with the frozen ground several miles above. Massive smoldering craters began to erupt lighting up the Leben night-sky.Ic (1-35): Evasive maneuvers were taken, the horseshoe-crab-looking creatures danced around the barrage of metal, escaping most of the large debris. Little injury was taken, a limb appendage here, a depressurized deck there. Two of the Wetter'ballon cloaked themselves and continued to circle the planet, the other pair left in pursuit of the Homeworld, warping on to 1-36.Ic (1-42): "That's absurd. Even if you claim our planets and our factories, what use are they to you. Your minds are filled with stone, clockwork, and lightning, what use are ligaments and blood? You have shown yourself as a peaceful kind, let us be."Ooc:Fleet Standings:1-36: [*]1 Tinte (8 Fighters)[*]1 Wetter'ballon[*]3 Klein[*]2 Wetter'ballon enroute1-35: [*]1 Tinte (10 FIghters)[*]2 Wetter'ballon[*]4 Klein1-42: [*]2 Wetter'Ballon[*]1 KleinSingle Wetter'ballon in 1-38, warping to 1-39.

Ooc: Regarding "fist-fights", I am aware of the massive forces at work, and had I not been tied up life I would have continued on with a different maneuver. My original plan was not to strike at that speed; thinking one could survive that is just ridiculous. The reason I went along with it was just to expedite the game. But I do argue that it's still a valid form of fighting, albeit rather ineffective. If one of my ships can match an enemies speed and general direction then the forces at work are not nearly as potent, i.e. not an instant giant explosion of death and stuff. Anywho, on with meeting my certain demise.Ic (1-36): Rahoitta trembled, what were the Natsirt thinking? Had they become as insane as Niikka? Shaking his head clear of the distracting thoughts the High-Minister began to bark orders to various leaders across the planet and rapidly composed a response to the guests overhead.Judging by your boisterous actions I presume there's no chance you'll reconsider this fiendish and unprovoked attack. During a previous time, before the invasion of the Alizarin, I would have gladly conceded into your Imperium. But you have shone your true nature, not once, but twice as of this day, the 37th of See, year 148 of the 6th age of Civilisation. I speak for my people in that I would rather die fighting than be led by war-mongering vermin like you. Have a nice day.-High-Minister of Finance & Industry, Rahoitta TeollisuusAcross Kaltviede civilians and the military alike began to prepare for the inevitable. Tunnels were barricaded, Striders were sent towards the surface, cities resting in the higher layers of the planet were evacuated, and instructions were sent to ships across the stars.Rounding the planet a single Tinte, accompanied with four small Klein class vessels, broke formation and began to open fire. On the very edge of the system a single stealthed Wetter'ballon warped out of the system towards the Natsirt blockade.Ic (1-35): The captain of the Tinte within the system had just received his orders when the Osalieli ships warped in. As instructed, he was to give peace if shown peace, which in this case the Osalieli did. "I am under the notion that there is a large misunderstanding. Under what crimes have the Leben been accused of?"Ic (1-42): The Homeworld arrived to see nothing, not a ship in the sky. Fifteen minutes of silent void later and a blinding EM spike shone out in all directions around the Natsirt vessel. Four Wetter'ballon, each fifty-thousand kilometers away, encircled the enemy ship; their cannons, already charged, fired. Globules of concentrated acids hurled towards the single ship. Ooc:Fleet Standings:1-36: [*]1 Tinte (10 Fighters)[*]1 Wetter'Ballon[*]4 Klein1-35: [*]1 Tinte (10 FIghters)[*]2 Wetter'Ballon[*]4 Klein1-42: [*]4 Wetter'Ballon[*]1 KleinOh, and just for the record, Kaltveide is the name for "Leben Prime" in 1-36.

Ic (1-36): Breathing heavily, a young military courier burst into High-Minister Rahoittaa's office. "Sir, there seems to be a situation arising on the overworld. A Natsirt vessel has just entered our system and a new race identifying themselves as the Treanuans have just appeared as well. We've got a patrol acting as a decoy with our stealth-enabled Wetter'ballon tracking the aliens with their cannons, ready to fire at the first sign of treachery. You've been requested at the broadcasting station."Slightly shocked at the report, the Minister reached for his hat and without further hesitation left with haste. Arriving just in time to catch the Natsirt's message, Rahoittaa began speaking into the mic."Your guess at what preceded the events in the system you call "1-32" is as good as mine. However, if you feel a formal meeting is an order, that can be arranged."The signal was transmitted, the catch was that this subterranean station used the planet itself as an antenna and as a result the signal would not be able to be pin-pointed.

Fail... Being in your system for so long has messed me up. :PFixed it; thanks for pointing that out.

Ooc: Oh, Toast, just for the record, there's no sign of civilization on Leben worlds as they live beneath the surface. Assuming you're in 1-36 the surface of the main planet is a flat, dark, sub-zero, barren wasteland. However I'll let it slide since I will desperately need help soon. And I'm not sure if you'll need it, but here's my profile.(@Toast) Ic (1-36): A patrol of three ships materialized out of the shadow of the Leben homeworld, Kalveide. The organic vessels glided towards the newcomers seemingly unarmed except for the jagged, one-hundred meter-long claws belonging to the Tinte that appeared to be heading the group. Several silent minutes passed before the Treanuans received a reply."You have entered space under the jurisdiction of the Leben Federation. You claim your intentions are peaceful; is your directive scientific, economic, or political in nature?"Ooc: Construction of 4 Wetter'ballon started (Completed 12-27)

I feel like I've apologized too many times and it may have lost its meaning, but I really do feel dreadful for leaving you hanging. However, mid-terms are complete, computer problems have been solved, my health has restored, my Spivey Hall performance is behind me, and the majority of the ridiculously busy holiday week is over, so, without further ado.(1-32): With the unexpected appearance of the Kalarii ships, the pilots onboard the Revered Covenant grew frightened and heightened levels of adrenaline coursed through their veins. The Klein craft's actions mirrored its controllers thoughts, an inherent flaw with the Leben's neurologically controlled vessels, and accelerated into the Natsirt ship, eradicating both ships in the process.Just behind the helm of the Ardent Remorse, Niikka twitched as she saw the Kalarii missiles racing towards her ship. The was no escaping the combined fire of the mass of alien ships. Time began to blur as the impact-warning lights began to flash bright yellow. The homeworld didn't send back-up. Do they not see the necessity of what I'm doing!? The first missile impacted into the fleshy body of the research vessel, ripping tendons and spewing deep, maroon blood out into space on the opposing side, before exploding."Ma'am! Hull breaches on all decks, one through four; we've lost the back half of the ship!This is it... If all else fails, we shan't let them gain anything from us..."Pilots, wipe the neural caches and overload the main motor-core. Today you'll have the honor of a martyr's death."In a roar of fire the Leben presence in 1-32 was no more.Ic (1-36): Communication on Kaltveide was slow, worse than dial-up slow, worse than a narcoleptic sloth slow. Well... maybe not quite that bad. It took a vast amount of resources and time to drill holes for lines of neural connections to be established through miles of rock. In fact, physical couriers still played a crucial part among the chain of conveyance of information. It was for this reason the the news of the rather imposing Natsirt presence above the Leben homeworld took such a significant amount of time before arriving to the first available High-Minister, Rahoittaa Teollisuus, the High-Minister of Finance & Industry.The Minister was the polar opposite of Niikka. He was calm, collected, dignified, and most notably of all, not utterly psychotic. At first he took the news as a jest. For one thing, at this point in time a Minister had yet to be put in charge of the Leben fleet, and as such all ship movements were discussed beforehand between the three High-Ministers. These ships shouldn't have been there, and Rahoittaa had no hostile intentions at all towards his Natsirt neighbors. It wasn't until he heard the actual foreign, audio recording for himself that his face grew grim. The man strummed his fingers across his desk, a nervous habit. How could such a mishap take place? Straightening the collar on his black, business-shirt, Rahoittaa began composing a message. I do believe there has been a grave mistake between our two kinds. By current Leben law, I would be aware of the slightest movement of our fleet, certainly that of an "invasion force". Is there the possibility that you have mistaken another race as our own? However, I am obligated to assume that you're correct. I assure you this was not passed by the organized Leben government or military. As a sign of peace I am willing to repay any losses you've taken as a result of this possible rebel group. However, I do mean to be stern when I say that the Leben nation shall refrain from being taken under the Trilateral Alliance. This simply is not an option.-High-Minister of Finance & Industry, Rahoittaa Teollisuus, Representative of One-ThirdWith the utmost haste the message was relayed to the nearest uplink to the main broadcasting antenna for the region.Ooc: (@Power) Not quite sure what happened to our meeting a while ago. It may be a bit ridiculous to continue it at this point, but what should we say the outcome was?Also, Alex, the Refereon side-plot is fantastic. As for species specialities? The key points that define the Leben are that their traditional technology, and the culture for that matter, are equivalent of what humans achieved during the renaissance. As for tech, they're, of course, the biological warfare peeps, but something that I think I've yet to mention is that the Leben are capable of synthesizing life as well. And all of you people with your devious multi-phase plots reminded me... I'm still on flippin' phase one of my galactic take over. And it's not looking promising at that; two failed attempts of abduction. Perhaps something will work out in time.Xom, I had no intention of being absent so long and have obviously lost the opportunity for some ship production. Would it be possible to make up for some of the lost time? Perhaps seven small ships?Last, but not least, here's my long overdue, and rather pathetic, status update:Leben:Planets: [*]1-36 (HW)[*]1-42 (FW, Upgrade on 1-9)[*]1-35 (FW, Upgrade on 1-9)Ships: [*]4 Forschung Scout/Stealth Ship (Small)[*]9 Klein Boarding Craft/Dropships (Small)[*]2 Drydocked Anfänge'samen (Colonizer)[*]20 Abfangen (Fighter)[*]2 Tinte Carrier(Medium)[*]4 Wetter'ballonTotal Industry : 13 (+5, +4, +4)Total Industry Usage: 8.25 (~65%)Currently Constructing: [*]...fibonacciMeh... I think I'm officially a weaker nation than the two new star-ups. Joy.To end this entry on a better note. I hope everyone had a Merry Christmashanukwanzaadon, a Joyous Wint... well... Solstice and a Happy Festivus for the rest of us!

Ooc: Yes, fifteen kilometers. I'm not sure if you've read my ships' profiles, but most of my ships lack any kind of projectile weaponry. The Klein is trying to engage the Unwavering Strength in melee combat. A "fistfight" in space.And just as a general rule, Leben ships are quicker and more agile than other ships, the disadvantage of course being lower-grade armor and lack of decent offense.Also, just for convenience, the Klein shall hence forth be dubbed the Revered Covenant and the Forschung the Ardent Remorse.(@Alex) Ic (1-32): The Revered Covenant blurred past the Natsirt ship and changed trajectory, arcing "upward", a trail of bullets gnawing into it's twin tails. The Klein barrel-rolled and began to fall back towards the rear of the Unwavering Strength*, taking the brunt of the assault with it's quickly deteriorating, protective skull-plate. 2 seconds until the boarding-craft had a hold on the enemy vessel.The Forschung continued to retreat, avoiding the majority of the shells launched form the smoldering Unwavering Courage. "Status report! Hull integrity?""83% Ma'am, and slowly dropping, orders?""Hmm... Correct heading, turn around and get us directly in between the Courage and the Strength. I wonder how the Natsirt feel about friendly-fire?"Ooc: *Flight diagram (It's not perfect but it gets the point across.)Oh, and how's the Starscape fanfic coming along? Are you willing to spill any plot details?

Ooc: I know I've said it before Alex, but why are you such a dang-good writer?! Oh, and thought the ships are indeed organic, they have chitinous plating on the exterior. So, it's not like cutting through butter, but certainly weaker than a traditional metal vessel.(@Alex) Ic (1-32): The cloud of the Unwavering Strength's machine gun fire pummeled into the Klein, many bullets richociheing of the rugged plating but a few finding their way into the cracks in between. Small spouts of dark, blood-tainted atmosphere vented sending the lobster-like ship spiraling off course and actually assisting it dodge the first volley of railgun rounds. The unified consciousness of the pilots of the ship quickly contracted several muscles of the creature, momentarily patching the few holes. They corrected course and continued straight for the Valiant class craft fifteen kilometers in front of them.Onboard the Forschung ship Niikka chuckled. Finally, I've been long overdue to spill some blood."Pull back farther, we need to be at a range so we can avoid their projectile weaponry." The High-Minister turned, "Officer, send a top-priority message back to 1-36, to ensure our victory we might need assistance."

Ooc: Sorry for falling off the face of the Earth; computer issues and an insane school schedule have been rather hindering. Oh, and Alex, I'm not sure if the ships in 1-32 would have left or not, but I'll just go ahead and continue the Ic.Also, I'm rather glad to see a spark of war. Shall I perhaps throw on some kindling?(@Alex) Ic (1-32): Niikka tapped her finger against her desk as she watched the last grains of sand fall into the bottom reservoir of her hourglass. It was a shame that the engineers still were on the alien ship, they had been a particularly talented duo, but the time had come and the plan had to continue. Pushing out from under the desk, the High-Minister casually exited her room and waltzed through the irregularly shaped and confusingly sloped hallways of the interior of the Leben vessel. Upon reaching the bridge, a small circular room dimly illuminated by gold, bioluminescent bacteria in tubing lining the walls, Niikka calmly began giving orders to the pilots on duty."... Disengage from the Natsirt craft... now. Bring the engines to full thrust in reverse and detonate the device."On board the Valiant class craft the two mechanics felt the ship rock as their ship left without them; fear filled their eyes as they realized what was about to happen. Simultaneously they turned and ran for the door, barging through the group of Natsirt behind them. Their efforts to preserve their lives were in vain. A deafening hiss ruptured out of the pod.A multitude of chemical reactions took place instantly as the pyrophoric mixture touched the air, igniting the additional solid explosives stashed throughout the Leben's equipment. The resulting roaring inferno engulfed everyone present in the compartment, rapidly expanding to other parts of the ship. Screams filled the air as Natsirt and Leben alike were burnt alive. The waiting Klein immediately took action, claws outstretched as it raced for the "healthy" Valiant.(@Power) Ic (2-5): "I think our kind could return the favor as well. Well, are we at an agreement? Protection pact, basic trading, and sheltering; to be quite honest I think that's enough of an undertaking for our first meeting."Ooc: Oh, and hello Rakata, welcome to the game. May the force be with you.