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Posted by Shik (Member # 343) on :
 
Boy HOWdy, didn't we have fun the last time with the Prime Directive? I wonder if there's an overriding element in this one, too? Maybe. Maybe not. I'm not gonna say.

Since Monsieur de Minutiae is otherwise occupied by other elements, I've gone ahead with the next episode of YTA!. It's the Sobchak Sector & it's a doozy.


The map key, rules, & disclaimer:
Timeline: 2275. That means that yes, you're still wearing those silly pajamas from TMP. But no more wrist communicators at least.



Sobchak Sector

(click above for larger picture)


As you can see this is a complicated area. it is located somewhat "below" the normal galactic plane; Organia would be a bit above it, but a few sectors away. Federation space is in blue. Klingon space is red. the space of the Penxi Optimus, a non-aligned nation, is in purple. Dashed lines indicate the "hidden" borders. Notice how the spaces wrap around each other; there is overlap:As you can see, this is an area of heavy stellar population. There are three Klingon worlds of note: Rosek II, Voltok III, & Ke'GencH VII. The Oblerk Military Base also sits near your the border & the nebula.

Your office is aboard Deep Space Station K-10, situated near the Klingon border in free space. It serves as an administrative site for Federation policy, a starbase for fleet coordination, & acts as a major trade & transit point in the sector. There are five major Federation worlds in the sector:

RepkaYvel
OgulEspejoSafkoThere is also a non-aligned state, the Penxi Optimus:The Ul'Chek Nebula which sits in the center of the sector is kinda biggish & somewhat unknown. It's a fairly standard nebula causing midlevel sensor interference to ships that pass through it, which is why it's used as a smokescreen by pirates & raiders; pursuers find their quarry quite difficult to track. it is unknown if there are any stars of planets contained within; at the moment, it is being charted & surveyed by an Oberth-class research vessel, USS Nernst (NCC-893).

There is a small standing patrol force homeported at K-10 that makes its rounds in the sector. It is as follows:
  • USS India (NCC-1479), Lancaster-class
  • USS Skua (NCC-1396), Kestrel-class
  • USS Dazzler (NCC-1567) & USS Reporter (NCC-1787), Avenger-class
  • USS Buccaneer (NCC-1686) & USS Spanker (NCC-1842), Predator-class

    QUESTION ONE (four parts)

    ********************************************

    A moment to step out of character here. I realize that the TMP era is sketchy on shippy canon, so I've allowed for some leeway, even if most of it DOES irk my sense of sequential hull numbers. That being said, I will allow for ships from the following non-canon sources (class inclusions or exceptions as noted):
  • FJ Tech Manual: All except Federation
  • ASDB: Antares
  • TAS: Huron
  • Ships Of The Star Fleet: Any vessel commissioned between 2235 & 2275 with the aforementioned exception of Decatur & Belknap (which by my notes should be the only 2 in service at that time)
  • FASA: Any vessel commissioned between 2235 & 2275 . You will of course need to figure out the conversion dates yourself.
  • Starfleet Museum: Lancaster, Kestrel, Valley Forge, Avenger, Predator, Belleau Wood, Siegfried, Ocean, Giant, Constellation (his freighter, not the canon one), Starmaster, "small transport", Sahara. (I will also accept Pyotr Velikiy if the situation arises where one is needed. That situation is not here at the moment)

    If you use any non-canon ship, please include a link to it for those of us who are unaware of it--NO EXCEPTIONS. Also, whether any of these ships are refitted to movie-style standards is entirely up to you. They can be movie, they can be TOS, they can be mix & match. It's not a problem.

     
    Posted by MinutiaeMan (Member # 444) on :
     
    Oh my god... you want me to make sense of that map? [Eek!] And I'm not even referring to my usual artistic conversion!
     
    Posted by Shik (Member # 343) on :
     
    Tch. It's not difficult. Just follow the lines. Part of your training, Cadet, is to think 3-dimensionally.

    Welcome to real world training.
     
    Posted by MinutiaeMan (Member # 444) on :
     
    Oh yeah, and the Lancaster got retired in 2264. Better make it a Valley Forge instead. (Ain't it a bitch when the guy who did the timeline reminds you of inconvenient facts? [Wink] )
     
    Posted by Shik (Member # 343) on :
     
    I know it did. I'm fiddling & have my reasons, my renumbering of the classes for my own universe not withstanding. Shush.
     
    Posted by MinutiaeMan (Member # 444) on :
     
    == Q1A ==

    Considering the current time period, it seems that there's a grudging peace established between the Federation and the Klingon Empire. Each side periodically complains and blusters about various issues, and there may be a minor skirmish here and there, but there's no major flash points. Settlement issues, under the auspices of the Organian Peace Treaty (OPT) have helped the two antagonists avoid most major points of conflict. However, despite this peaceful interlude, we can't afford to let our guard down, because given the opportunity, the Klingons would very much love to take the offensive again.

    I'm going to base my responses heavily on Masao's version of TOS political history, specifically the events and causes of the Four Days' War from "Errand of Mercy" (I just love that name... I suggested it specifically to thumb my nose at the FASA timeline.) Therefore, the Federation's primary goal — in the past, anyway — has been to deny vital resources to the Klingons and to block potential avenues of expansion. Although it's possible that there's the potential for some kind of peaceful coexistence on Sobchak's Planet, the risk is far too great, for the moment, to give the Klingons too much breathing room.

    Therefore, the primary goal of colonization of Sobchak's will be for agricultural and settlement purposes. With a much greater population, the Federation can afford to move in larger numbers of people to lay claim to the planet, and with the focus on agriculture, establish a case for the Federation's greatest strengths: sustainable development. Some mining facilities will be established, but in an environmentally-neutral fashion that will leave as little impact as possible on the overall ecosphere.

    In contrast, the Klingons are most likely to see Sobchak's as a ball of resources waiting to be consumed as fast as possible. They'll move in some strip-mining operations, and probably what they would consider a large population, to try to play the numbers game. They'll lose in that, of course. But as a result, the Federation colony will be established as far away from the Klingon colony (if it's already been established) as possible. However, if the Klingons haven't set up shop yet, then we'll take the best fertile land that's also closest to the biggest mineral deposits.

    I should mention that I briefly considered planting my colony close to the Klingons instead, establishing a kind of dual settlement that could become one city (kinda like Minneapolis/St. Paul, for example). But then I thought about the joke that has become Nimbus III (NEVER ASK ABOUT NIMBUS III!), and I decided I know better.

    (IMPORTANT: I'm assuming that Sobchak's potential is roughly unremarkable, with equal capacity for agricultural or mining efforts. If there's few resources or less arable land, the colony plans will be adapted accordingly. Shik?)

    == Q1B ==

    For transports themselves, I imagine there'll be a steady stream of them coming and going. Starfleet's not asking me if I want any transports permanently assigned, are they? 'Cause if so, that's kinda pointless. I imagine that some ships will make regular round trips on a fixed route, but that's still not under my direct control. Depending on how modular and configurable they are, I imagine that we can have (once the colony gets going) a bunch of transports that bring in settlers and carry out finished produce. For the first year or two, only a couple of big ships would be needed, probably. As the colony grows, the demands will change. In terms of numbers, I figure that after the first few really big shipments in, most of the needs will be relatively small until the colony becomes sustainable. So I figure the ships'll be of the Giant class (for big stuff) and Starmaster class (for the little stuff like resupply and minor needs). Probably twice as many little ships as big ones.

    As for escorts... At the very least, there need to be some seriously heavy but clearly defensive assets attached to the Sobchak's colony. Considering that the Penxi Optimus (would their homeworld be Penxi Optimus Prime?) seem to be equivalent to the Barbary States of ancient Earth, there's plenty of justification for military assets there, regardless of the Klingon situation. The proximity to the nebula doesn't help, either. Therefore, a minimum of two squadrons of Penguin-class fighters (or their newer equivalents, if available) will be based on Sobchak's for defense. (Fighters aren't really useful for offense these days, since the advent of advanced deflector shields and more accurate energy-beam weapons.) An additional Predator or Kestrel destroyer would be needed for best results, as well, to complement the fighters. Also, a network of sensor buoys would need to be deployed between the colony and the outskirts of the nebula, to provide a kind of early-warning network.

    I don't think that there'll be a huge need for escorts inside Federation space itself, seeing how that's relatively secure. The standing patrol squadron would be shifted to cover the usual routes to and from the colony, as necessary. However, a Sahara tender would be handy to provide roving support for the patrol squadron, especially when they're running on and in the nebula, as a mobile resupply base. Also, in the interests of preparedness, an old Belleau Wood-class assault transport would make for an excellent ad hoc orbiting supply base near Sobchak's. It could function as a tender for the fighters (though not as well as a carrier, of course), but also work great for any potential combat operations that might be needed should hostilities flare up on the ground at Sobchak's.

    Since Shik's taking liberties with Masao's stuff, I'm gonna list my forces:
    quote:
    73rd Sector Patrol Squadron
    USS Los Angeles (NCC-1479, Valley Forge class)
    USS Skua (NCC-1443, Kestrel class)
    USS Dazzler (NCC-D120, Avenger class)
    USS Reporter (NCC-D159, Avenger class)
    USS Buccaneer (NCC-D218, Predator class)
    USS Spanker (NCC-D279, Predator class)

    I should register my concerns her about the paltry size of the local squadron... all of the ships are either close to retirement or due for a major refit. I seriously doubt that the squadron could effectively resist any likely Klingon incursion force, should one attack. Ideally, there should be at least a Miranda-class medium cruiser to provide some modern firepower in the case of a cavalry-style raid or a reconnaissance-in-force. And if the Penxi choose to make any real trouble, then they'll pretty much have the run of the whole damn sector with their 13 heavy combatants and 350 destroyer-types!

    Of course, part of my response depends on the kinds of defenses the five established worlds have in place. How did they fare during the Four Days' War, Shik? Can you provide any more detailed background on the Federation-Klingon conflict as it occurred in this sector, specifically?

    == Q1C ==

    Well, that's exactly what the Oberth is there to find... so I'd want them to look closer. Given the situation in the sector, I'd have to assume that it was some kind of patrol force sent by one of the local threat forces, so I'd want to send over one of my destroyer squadrons to take position at the nearest point, outside the nebula, to the scout's current position. This would solely be intended to provide cover if the scout stirs up a hornet's nest inside and needs to make a quick getaway.

    == Q1D ==

    If piracy starts increasing, I'd have to ask for some more destroyer-type vessels. Preferably, I'd want something a bit newer... that way, I could rotate my older destroyers out to fight the pirates (who probably are operating older machinery, though not necessarily) and keep the newer vessels for countering any fleet movements made by the Penxi or the Klingons. My first choice would be that destroyer kitbash from the DS9:TM, known in Bernd's files as the Constitution variant 1. For lack of a better idea, I'll reluctantly use the DITL's name, and call it the Polaris class. A minimum of two, preferably three.

    It'd help to sum up my requests, so here they are:
    And I guess that's all for now...
     
    Posted by Shik (Member # 343) on :
     
    I'm assuming that Sobchak's potential is roughly unremarkable, with equal capacity for agricultural or mining efforts. If there's few resources or less arable land, the colony plans will be adapted accordingly.

    Yes, that's perfectly feasible. Also, there have been no colonies planted as of yet on either side. the world is still uninhabited.

    Of course, part of my response depends on the kinds of defenses the five established worlds have in place. How did they fare during the Four Days' War, Shik? Can you provide any more detailed background on the Federation-Klingon conflict as it occurred in this sector, specifically?

    Ships came in. Ships faced each other. Ships got hot. Ships went home. The end.

    And now, the smackdown:
    Since Shik's taking liberties with Masao's stuff, I'm gonna list my forces:
    quote:

    73rd Sector Patrol Squadron
    USS Los Angeles (NCC-1479, Valley Forge class)
    USS Skua (NCC-1443, Kestrel class)
    USS Dazzler (NCC-D120, Avenger class)
    USS Reporter (NCC-D159, Avenger class)
    USS Buccaneer (NCC-D218, Predator class)
    USS Spanker (NCC-D279, Predator class)


    Uhhh...NO. The Lancaster stays. We're using the technology & equipment from Masao here, not the timeline. Don't complain.

    Therefore, a minimum of two squadrons of Penguin-class fighters (or their newer equivalents, if available) will be based on Sobchak's for defense. (Fighters aren't really useful for offense these days, since the advent of advanced deflector shields and more accurate energy-beam weapons.)

    Again, no. I did not specify fighters for a reason: there are none. That's why I never mentioned Al-Burak or Swordfish in the list at the end. There's a reason why I built the way I did. Your fiddling fucks things up. Don't do it. Dong le ma?
     
    Posted by MinutiaeMan (Member # 444) on :
     
    Psst... the whole point of YtA! is to allow for individual responses and interpretations of the Trek universe. That includes various responses for the different types of ships and possibilities in technology.

    I'll switch back to the Lancaster, I guess, but I'm keeping the fighters. [Razz] Seriously, fighters are an established part of Trek combat, even back in TOS. Remember "Journey to Babel," and the tiny (dare I say fighter-sized?) Orion raider? If the Penxi have 350 friggin' ships in their fleet, then that's gotta include a few fighters. It would be stupidly short-sighted to not prepare to counter that potential threat.
     
    Posted by Shik (Member # 343) on :
     
    Tch. Fine. Keep your VFE.

    Throw MY calculations off, will you?? Gonna be fighting a elder god soon..!
     
    Posted by MinutiaeMan (Member # 444) on :
     
    Also, can you answer my question about the planetary defenses? That's kinda needed in case the Klingons or the Penxi decide to launch a cavalry raid...
     
    Posted by Shik (Member # 343) on :
     
    Apologies. Sort of glossed over that. Um...hm. Well, they're the major Fed worlds in the sector (which is why they were singled out), so they're going to have good defenses but nothing on the level of the core worlds, not as heavily defended as Earth or Andor & such.

    So...figure they're important to the sector & of medium importance to the Federation as a whole. Repka & Ogul would be more so, because they're sort of the Deneva & Beta Rigel of the area, respectively. Safko would probably be more passively defended due to the "we'll be saved by God" nature of the planetary society. Espejo's society would probably go "YES, WE WILL DEFEND OURSELVES!!" & have some nice setup, while Yvel...well, who knows. Scholars are notorious for being absent-minded & procrastinative.

    The exact nature I will leave to the player's discretion.
     
    Posted by WizArtist II (Member # 1425) on :
     
    quote:
    Originally posted by MinutiaeMan:
    Also, can you answer my question about the planetary defenses? That's kinda needed in case the Klingons or the Penxi decide to launch a cavalry raid...

    I can see it now....James Ewell Brown Stovacor....General of the Klingon Cavalry.
     
    Posted by HerbShrump (Member # 1230) on :
     
    Station Log, Stardate 7706.8. Admiral Herb Shrump reporting:

    I have arrived at Starbase K10, located in the heart of the Sobchak Sector. The staff has made me feel welcome, and I look forward to assuming my new post. My primary duty as Admiral of this sector is oversight of the new Federation colony on Sobchak Prime. Under the terms of the Organian Peace Treaty, this planet is shared with the Klingons, with the goal of seeing which government can develop the planet the best. I intend the Federation to be that government.

    After careful consideration, I’ve decided recommend locating the colony on the opposite continent, as far away from the Klingon settlement as possible. This is purely a military decision. If the Klingons decide to mount a raid, attack or perform any type of harassment, I want to see them coming. Placing our colony on the opposite continent will insure that any accidental intrusions not take place.

    Additonally, I would strongly encourage a standard satellite/sensor net in orbit of the planet. You know the Klingons will have one. They spy on us, we spy on them... Further, one squardon of fighters based on Sobchak is not out of the question either.

    As for the type of colony, I would recommend primarily an agricultural colony with modest mining and industrial capabilities. With the need for foodstuffs growing at an alarming rate, and with K10 being a busy trading point, the new colony will be able to easily export foodstuffs to various ports of call. Further, a modest mining and industrial base will help the colony become self-sufficient, in case of any potential piracy or blockades by the Klingons.

    Based on this decision, I am requesting from Stafleet the dispatching of the following starships to help establish the colony.

    Three Huron Class freighters for transporting of foods/livestock between Sobchak and K10.
    Three Antares Class freighters for transporting of foods/livestock between Sobchak and K10.
    Two Starmaster transports for colonists/personnel
    One Ocean transport for colonists/personnel
    One Ptolemy Class Tug/Transport
    One Battle Pod for the Tug (Battle Pod has 4 phasers and 4 photon launchers (URL of tug with Battle Pod: http://www.caddocourt.com/sfb/ssd/fedbtl.gif
    Two Mark II and Two Mark V cargo pods

    Two of the new Miranda Class starships
    Six Kestral Class light cruisers for convoy escort duty.
    One Penguin Class fighter squadron

    A survey vessel in the Ul’Chek nebula has detected unusual readings emanating from the nebula. Our knowledge of this nebula is scant. It could be anything from a natural occurrence, a fluctuation in a dynoscanner, or Klingons meddling in our backyard. Right now it’s a minor point. I would recommend the survey vessel continue exploring the nebula. Additionally, I would reccomend shifting the patrol patterns so that a couple of our home based starships, perhaps the India and the Dazzler could help scan the nebula as part of their regular patrol.

    Piracy has become an increasing problem. With a sector this large, Klingons this close and a nice nebula to provide cover, the vermin have found plenty of opportunities to plunder the innocents. My hope is that the addition of more Kestral Class cruisers and a Miranda or two will help stem this growing tide. Regardless of Starfleet’s reaction to adjusting the patrol patterns along the nebula, I would feel comfortable shifting them myself, or adding a couple of standing patrols along this region in order to ferret out any troublemakers.

    End log.

    Note: How long will we have between questions? I am leaving for an extened weekend this Friday and won't have computer access until Tuesday or Wednesday of next week.

    [ August 29, 2006, 06:35 PM: Message edited by: HerbShrump ]
     
    Posted by Shik (Member # 343) on :
     
    You should be OK, Herb. I tend to leave long lead times.
     
    Posted by MinutiaeMan (Member # 444) on :
     
    Not as long as Mark, though. [Razz]
     
    Posted by MinutiaeMan (Member # 444) on :
     
     -

    I changed the Penxi color to green because I didn't want it to clash too easily with the red/blue/purple blending of the UFP/Klingon border. Otherwise, the map should be pretty close to Shik's original rendition...
     
    Posted by MinutiaeMan (Member # 444) on :
     
    Looks like we've got a few deserters after the previous campaign! [Big Grin]
     
    Posted by Harry (Member # 265) on :
     
    Woah.. this is a complex one. I'm going to have to think on this one (my previous attempt to live through one of these was foiled by 2 weeks holiday in France).

    But I do know I'm going to use my own version of tech/NCCs/timeline, and not Shik's [Razz]
     
    Posted by MinutiaeMan (Member # 444) on :
     
    I did a minor update to the map, partially per Shik's request. I added that little "cutout" where Penxi territory comes in "front" of Federation space. And partially for my own benefit, I also added little base-dots for all of the minor systems, to help provide a better grasp of the entire territory territorial claims in the sector. (Shik, tell me if any of those minor systems' colors are off, will you?)
     
    Posted by HerbShrump (Member # 1230) on :
     
    THANKS! That map is SWEET!!!!

    Lots of talented individuals here...

    A few deserters? I figured I scared everyone off. Was hoping more would play.

    Heh... maybe people are busy with real life...
     
    Posted by Shik (Member # 343) on :
     
    The star in the purple is to be Klingon, not UFP. The star where the UFP overlaps the Penxi is to be Penxi, not UFP. The star that is the second green dot from the right is not Penxi, it is free space.

    Past that, it's shiny. Those 3 would be the hardest to extrapolate anyway, so no points off there.

    ATTENTION!!
    I WILL NOT BE GIVING OUT WARNINGS FOR THE NEXT QUESTIONS THIS TIME. IF YOU MISS Q1 AND WISH TO PLAY WHEN Q2 IS IN EFFECT, YOU MUST PLAY Q1 FIRST BEFORE COMING UP TO DATE. ALL PRECEDING QUESTIONS MUST BE ANSWERED BEFORE PLAYING THE CURRENT ONE.

    You can, however, decide to jump in at any time & get up to speed if you you find interest...which I hope more people will.


    ALSO...! Some of you may be failing to grasp the concept here of "working out the problem as given." There will be NO REPLACEMENTS of author-established items. NONE. The leeway goes towards the variables YOU input & NOTHING ELSE. Whine, bitch, moan, gripe, complain, send racial epithets, do whatever you feel like. I have a reason for these decisions; if I'd wanted you to design the standing elements, I would have. In Question 1, you have the leeway to choose almost any non-canon element you wish as long as it conforms to the time period set. Yes, I listed what i would accept because those are the most well-known elements. HOWEVER...I will amend that to include any sort of personal-based designs insofar as (A) the linking element to design (& specs if available) is placed & (B) the item in question is not overly fanboyish & zhorlord. I know there are loopholes in my listing & if I can see them, they must be bloody blatant to all. If they exploited...well.

    On this point I must speak for the Party.
     
    Posted by Mark Nguyen (Member # 469) on :
     
    The map is indeed excellent. Someone should VMRL it so we can look t it in all directions. [Big Grin]

    Mark
     
    Posted by MinutiaeMan (Member # 444) on :
     
    ADDENDUM to my answer: I've come to the conclusion that I was thinking too big in my response for the piracy scenario. Although certainly I'd still need to have some extra destroyers to provide the heavy support, some escorts and wide-range patrol vessels will still be necessary. Because if there are many more pirate vessels versus my forces (as is likely, especially if the attacks are being sponsored by the Penxi Optimus), it'll be pretty easy for them to lure my assets away or split them up and overwhelm their targets while my small forces can't target all the various attackers.

    Therefore, I will pare back my request for the Polaris-class destroyers to only two units (not three), but I'd want to add eight Asmodeus-class corvettes. They will operate in pairs for escort, patrol, and anti-piracy duty. They'll also make a great support unit for any larger fleet action that takes place.

    (I only hope this last-minute request is still granted by Admiral Shik at Starfleet Command...) [Wink]
     
    Posted by MinutiaeMan (Member # 444) on :
     
    Okay, reload the map for version 2.1. [Smile]

    Also, Shik, I've got no problems with you discouraging replacement of the units you specified... I'd originally assumed that you were just posting "suggested" units based on your own personal beliefs (which is what I did back in Sector Zeta. The only part I had a problem with (and which is why I pushed back a bit) was that you were actually excluding a whole class of vessels that—depending on your POV—could form an important part of TOS-era tactics.

    And Mark... I did try a little experimenting with Google Sketchup (the pro version even, believe it or not, of which I managed to obtain a legitimate copy), but the damn thing isn't capable of drawing spheres! At least, not that I can figure...
     
    Posted by Shik (Member # 343) on :
     
    All is taken into consideration. Trust me, you'll find out that if there can just be swarms of fighters flying about, then what's the point?

    Flying torp tubes are GO!!
     
    Posted by MinutiaeMan (Member # 444) on :
     
    Would it make you happier if swapped my two fighter squadrons(the ones defending Sobchak's Planet) for another four TWO Asmodeuses (or is that Asmodeii)? I'd be open for that trade.
     
    Posted by Shik (Member # 343) on :
     
    Yeah, that works. I'll also throw in some hull wax.
     
    Posted by MinutiaeMan (Member # 444) on :
     
    The big puzzler for me with the move to a 3D map is how I'm going to illustrate my fleet deployments. Right now I'm experimenting... what do you guys think of this method? I like it because the lines make it easier to pinpoint the groupings of fleets on the map... but the down side is that unless I set up more of those "drop-lines" like the stars and stations, it's hard to place them in the full context. And the map is getting pretty dang cluttered already.

    http://idisk.mac.com/minutiaeman-Public/sector_sobchak_map.png

    Maybe next time I should go for a 2000-pixel-wide map... [Wink]
     
    Posted by Neutrino 123 (Member # 1327) on :
     
    Okay, the only ships I know from this era are the Constitutions and Mirandas, but I’ll give it a try…

    However, I am not exactly sure of the political situation. Should the Federation be trying to deny resources to the Klingons as in http://starfleet-museum.org/avenger-predator.htm or should the post-Organian Treaty mean that the Federation is trying to improve relations with the Klingons? What is the general situation with the Klingons?
     
    Posted by MinutiaeMan (Member # 444) on :
     
    I think that's part of what you're supposed to determine for yourself, Neutrino... just exactly what was the Federation's overall policy concerning Klingon relations between the end of TOS and the next time we saw them, in ST3? Did the Federation simply make a complete about-face and start automatically trusting the Klingons because of the peace treaty? Or did they continue their previous policies (whatever they might be; I chose to follow Masao's story that you linked to), but keep them more covert to avoid provoking the Klingons? Or would it be something else entirely? That's the decision. That's what makes it interesting.
     
    Posted by Shik (Member # 343) on :
     
    You get a ShikiSnack for that. It's comparabel to a MinutiaeMeal. Also, kudos to Neutrino for guessing the sceret agenda.
     
    Posted by MinutiaeMan (Member # 444) on :
     
    There seems to be an ion storm somewhere along the comm channel... every time I think I'm getting updated orders from Command, they're completely garbled. [Wink]
     
    Posted by Neutrino 123 (Member # 1327) on :
     
    Question One:

    The precise elements in the colony should really depend on what the treaty considers “well-developed”. I will assume this means that the colony can support the most people at a good standard of living with the fewest transports, the number of transports being defined as importing transports minus exports transports. Additionally, it would be good if the transport travel distances would be small and away from the nebula and other areas of dense pirate concentrations. Furthermore, it would be best to fill outgoing transports with exports, so no transport travel time is wasted.

    In the sector, we have several species homeworlds and huge “colonies”, which are presumably well-balanced in terms of imports/exports. However, there are also Repka, an industrial/agricultural colony, and Safko, a source of many useful heavy metals and minerals. Repka is closer to other systems (so would not really need to trade with Safko despite their complementary products), but a trade relationship might be established with the very close Safko. This would also mean that our transports don’t need to spend as much time near the nebula.

    Safko needs food and finished goods. We can provide them from Sobchak’s planet after a little development.

    First, though, the nearest food source to the new colony is relatively far away. This need should be eliminated first. We can ship in some Federation colonists, who can establish an agricultural base required to support the population. The next step would be the establishment of industries the complement the raw material output of Safko. This would enable us to import the required material, and send finished goods back on the same ship. Of course, finished goods take up less room then materials, so the third priority (probably dealt with simultaneously with the second) would be to ramp up food production, and put the excess on our transports to Safko.

    With this plan in mind, the colony should be established where the best-tasting and most nutritious food products can be grown (which will surely have adequate water supplies, a most essential requirement for a colony). Industry can really be put almost anywhere (usually), so its location is not problem.

    The colony should not be put very close to the Klingons (we don’t want them walking over and ‘interacting’ with our colonists), but doesn’t need to be on the other side of the planet either. It should be at least a long drive away, which gives us over 99% of the planet to choose from. Food-growing goodness is the priority in choosing the exact spot over that 99+%.

    We want enough colonists to make full use of Safko’s raw materials, and to provide them with food and finished products. How many is this? I don’t know… Probably in the 100,000-1,000,000 range. Surely so many people can’t come at once, so we can effectively grow the colony as fast as transports can come in.

    Besides colonists, the transports should carry initial needs supply, and then some useful seeds for a variety of food that can grow on the planet (perhaps native foods would be added if they are suitable), as well as a small genetic engineering lab (it’s okay to modify plants, right???) in case some seeds in their normal form don’t grow effectively in the new environment. Later transports would carry more agricultural equipment

    Escorts will be needed for the important colonization transports (the colony will also eventually need defenses to ward off pirates). Since we have transporter technology, the bad aspects of homogeneous convoys are eliminated, so transports can travel in groups. Two convoy groups will be created, one for the Safko route, and one for other supplies.

    The Safko route only needs slow, low capacity transport ability since the distance is very, very short (thus keeping goods transported in any given time very high). Thus, only one ‘small’ class transport is needed. It will be escorted by the Skua (Kestral-class), a small, low capability ship. If the colony is successful and grows large, another small transport can be added to this route.

    The other convoy will need to be larger. It will vary in size, depending on the needs of the colony, and will get two Kestral-class escorts brought in from outside the sector. That way, if necessary, one of these can detach for a short time from the convoy to deal with an emergency, run down a pirate, etc.

    Yvel, Ogul, and Espejo are large planets, and all presumably have decent fixed defenses. The other Federation worlds are too small to have this however. They will need to be defended

    The slow, big, and mostly useless India (Lancaster-class) will be assigned to keep a careful watch over the new Colony at Sobchak’s Planet. It can provide defense, and respond to distress calls from the convoys if they run into trouble.

    The Dazzler (Avenger-class) will remain near Safko, protecting it and serving as a rapid reaction unit for troubles in the area. Its sistership, the Reporter, will be in a mutually supportive position between Repka and the Penxi area, where the pirates come from. This way, it can defend Repka, act to deal with other trouble in the area, and be able to form up with the Dazzler in short time.

    The Predator class starships, Buccaneer and Spanker, will be assigned to deal with piracy and to protect the Oberth-class Nernst as it explores the nebula. One will stay a short distance from the Nernst. Hopefully, pirates will detect only the Nernst and attack, at which point the Spanker will instantly warp in and deal with it. The Buccaneer will do some reverse-pirating of its own. It will stay at the edge of the nebula, peeking out sometimes to detect returning pirates with its superior sensors, and then taking up an ambush position.

    If the survey vessel detects an anomaly, there are three possible courses of action. The first would be to immediately go investigate, with the Spanker following just out of detection range. The second would be to standoff, and immediately send the Spanker first. The third would be to steer clear of it with the weaker Nernst and its escort and let the unencumbered Buccaneer investigate.

    If piracy increases, then the current deployment is still suitable (I assumed that there war a fair rate of paracy in the first place). Of course, if the pirates begin to overwhelm the defenses (such as by attacking in many places simultaneously, using ruses, etc) more assets can be brought in to help.

    Okay, there are more sector policies to set, such as with the Klingons, but I suppose that wouldn’t technically be part of question one, and my answer is already long enough. Can I get a flagship? I’d like a Valley Forge class. Those look like they have a lot of pluck, and I always base my flagship choice on pluck quotient. [Smile]

    Minutiaeman, can I use your map to illustrate fleet deployments?
     
    Posted by MinutiaeMan (Member # 444) on :
     
    Of course you can.
     
    Posted by Neutrino 123 (Member # 1327) on :
     
    Thanks Minutiaeman.

    Here is my fleet deployment, using all my MS Paint Skills.
     -

    P.S. I forgot to mention: the India, being a large ship, has a fair amount of resources, so its assignment to Sobchak's Planet should help with colonization efforts, since it will be in orbit of the planet most of the time.
     
    Posted by Neutrino 123 (Member # 1327) on :
     
    I just realized that I assumed a bit to much about the sensor radii of my ships. About how far away can they detect most things in this scenario? I need to make sure my perimeter zones don't contain massive holes...
     
    Posted by MinutiaeMan (Member # 444) on :
     
    I'd give an analogy of something akin to early-19th-century sail... you're pretty much limited to the horizon and whatever smoke signals you might be able to send. [Wink]

    Seriously, remember "Errand of Mercy" when the Enterprise got ambushed? Sensors there never seemed to be able to reach more than a light-year, or maybe two. At least at any useful resolution. So I'd say that unless you've got a couple thousand ships to spare, you're not going to eliminate the holes.
     
    Posted by Neutrino 123 (Member # 1327) on :
     
    Ah, good point. I guess that means that the Reporter moves closer to Repka, and that the Buccaneer is slightly move active in its attempt to ambush some pirates.
     
    Posted by Shik (Member # 343) on :
     
    QUESTION TWO (seven parts)

     
    Posted by Harry (Member # 265) on :
     
    Hah. Right after the deadline, like the good student I am:

    QUESTION ONE

    Part A
    As per the Treaty, the focus of the colonization of Sobchak's Planet will be sustainability, efficiency and self-reliance. Therefore, initially there would be an agricultural settlement, possibly later extended with mining or industrial facilities, depending on the environment. The colony will not be placed anywhere near the Klingons, and preferably at least a continent away. Per Treaty though, the Klingons will probably insist in coming 'on shore leave'. So obviously, with the Klingons and the Penxi nearby, this colony will need self-defense. But on the other hand, I will also make sure Starfleet will get the oppertunity to go on shore leave at the Klingon camp. A Starfleet police force will be detached to the colony, as will a small fleet of shuttlecraft. Which brings me to the next part of the question.

    Part B
    As for bringing in the supplies for setting up the colony, I would rather let the specialists at the Bureau of Colonization and Transport Command deal with the specifics. I can only guess that about 4-5 Giant or equivalent transports would be needed, plus a variety of Independence, Starmaster and other smaller transports. Any regular supplies (or trade) will be handled through Deep Space K-10 via available (medium to small) transports.

    The current patrol force is apparently sufficient to secure the existing trade routes coming in and out of K-10. I assume that the nearby Federation members have their local system defense sorted out, so there is no immediate need for active patrolling in their space. For additional support for the colony, I request the USS Resurgent (NCC-1240), a Coventry-class frigate (as per SotSF, Resurgent has an extended shuttlebay and more advanced anti-ship defense than the baseline Coventry). The Resurgent will deliver a force of shuttlecraft (2 Vigilantes, 1 Comanche, 1 Galileo 5 type) to the surface of the planet. After this, Resurgent will be tasked to deploy some orbital spy sattelites (these need not be much bigger than a baseball). Overall, Resurgent primary mission is focused on the protection of the colony and surveying the perimeter of the Ul'Chek Nebula. To beef up the overall strength of the fleet, I would also request USS Lucifer (NCC-521) and USS Molock (NCC-522), two of the new Siva class destroyers*. Both of these modern destroyers will join the current destroyer force.

    Part C
    Should the contact turn out to be a hostile, Resurgent (on deployment near the colony at the moment) should be able to react to any hostile actions. It could return to the colony, or set course towards the Nebula, depending on the nature of the contact.

    Part D
    Increased pirate activity would first of all have an effect on the patrol routes of the fleet. I would redirect the Molock and Lucifer to patrol the trade routes most affected, and escort high-risk transports. In addition, I want a large Class 1 transport (Kepler class), which has enough firepower to act as a detterent to pirates.


    * Siva as seen on the Federation Recognition Chart: A 'refit'-style destroyer (launched 2274) with two nacelles above the saucer, and a torpedo pod between those nacelles. Can't find an online picture of the Chart silhouette.

    So, in conclusion, the material I require:


     
    Posted by Shik (Member # 343) on :
     
    Harry, I'm denying your G5-style shuttle. That's late 2280s tech. Please replace.
     
    Posted by MinutiaeMan (Member # 444) on :
     
    Question before I reply, Shik... would is the "half of your requested ships" for combatants only, or would that also include my Sahara and Belleau Wood? They're kinda halfway between the transports and the combatants... they're combat support ships. [Wink]

    EDIT: Also, given their tiny size and my plans for them, would the Asmodeii corvettes each count as half a ship (as in a pair of them consume the resources of a single full-size starship)? (Not that I'm trying to cheat, just... exploring the limits.) (Nevermind. That wouldn't affect my numbers anyway.)
     
    Posted by MinutiaeMan (Member # 444) on :
     
    == Part A ==

    I'll critique Harry's response, simply because it's the most recent one. [Wink]

    First, I'm a bit concerned that you don't request any smaller ships than a couple of destroyers... mainly because, despite the big cold war going on with the Klingons, I'm much more worried about the Penxi and their 300+ raiders. The reason I requested my small fleet of corvettes is because numbers are needed to cover all the angles with the various trade routes near Penxi space. I realized after I posted my requests that it would be quite easy for any pirates to launch a diversionary feint on one transport, lure in the local patrolling destroyer, and then launch the real raid in the completely opposite direction. (This was one of the primary reasons for the development of the Kestrel-class light cruiser several decades ago.) I'm also a bit puzzled as to why you think a refitted Ptolemy would be a suitable deterrent to pirate attacks.

    I will compliment you on your thinking of shuttles. I made such a big stink about the fighters for colony defense, when a handful of armed shuttles would probably work just as well for basic needs, and wouldn't've raised Shik's ire.

    == Part B ==

    Ain't it always the way? Command loves to put up big fancy defenses and tons of starships in the really populated border regions, but for anything that's even partially out of the way and is just starting out, they wait until there's an actual crisis to actually send sufficient ships. Anyway...

    USS India (NCC-1479), Lancaster class
    USS Skua (NCC-1396), Kestrel class
    USS Dazzler (NCC-D120), Avenger class
    USS Reporter (NCC-D159), Avenger class
    USS Buccaneer (NCC-D218), Predator class
    USS Spanker (NCC-D279), Predator class

    New Arrivals:
    Pending Shik's decision, the Gobi may have been cut as well.

    As a result, I'll have to spread out my anti-piracy patrols, and concentrate them more towards Penxi space. They're the main concern right now... we'll have plenty of warning if there's any major Klingon issues, but the Penxi-supported raiders have the ability to strike at a moment's notice and have already demonstrated the ability to penetrate through Federation territory with impunity. Instead of operating in pairs, they'll have to act as more of a wolf pack... they'll patrol within a couple light-years of each other, with the other two ready to rush in to their sister ship's aid at a moment's notice. And considering their torpedo armament, they're probably capable enough on their own against most raiding parties.

    == Part C ==

    Why the hell does Starfleet want me to plan the damn colony? Don't they pay the analysts loads of credits (and lots of fancy lunches on corporate accounts) to figure out these things? I'm a soldier/diplomat and administrator, not a paper-pusher!

    I suppose the colony would need to have some regular food shipments for the early months before the crop yields start coming in. A handful of shuttlecraft with easy attachment points for *ahem* colony-defense weaponry. (I'm sure there are a bunch of colonists who'll be coming from North America's Old South, and will be bringing their own phaser rifles to mount on the back of their personal vehicles to defend against them-thar gul-derned Clingans! 'Course, those same vehicles are probably rusted over and up on blocks, so that may not be an asset... <g>) Considering it's the frontier, a combination militia/police force would be the best way to provide organization. A subspace transmitter/receiver facility would be necessary for communications, preferably with Starfleet-grade military capacity available in times of crisis.

    But aside from the comms facilities, I'll stipulate that there be nothing more than standard defensive armaments be stationed on the colony surface. For now, at least, we don't want to establish the appearance of a new forward base... despite the very strategic location of the planet for attacking just about every Klingon planet in the sector.

    == Part D ==

    What a surprise this is! [/sarcasm] It's exactly why I chose to keep the Brandywine instead of the Gobi (assuming the latter gets axed by Shik), because I had a feeling that the Klingons would be trying to plant their flag with a military rather than civilian presence. I'd want to know from my intelligence officer what other assets the Klingons are known to have in this sector, so I can reassign my own squadrons accordingly. If it's newly-assigned additional forces, then I may need to shift additional ships of my own (probably a destroyer or two) to operate out of Sobchak's. But if they're focusing more of their forces at Sobchak's and Obrelk by siphoning from other sector forces, then I'll let 'em sit for now.

    == Part E ==

    While denying our intent for spying, I'll also question the General's own admission that he had his own ship in the nebula. I'd ask just what it was doing there, if not for "spying" of its own. I'd also point out that if I were intent on spying, then I sure as hell wouldn't be doing it in the nebula, where sensor range is incredibly short, and it's not immediately near any major locations (such as Obrelk).

    As for open warfare, I certainly won't scoff in the face of Klingon threats (because that'll just make him happy prove me wrong), but one lone general isn't much of a threat for an actual declaration of war. I just need to prepare to defend against possible retaliatory raids and incursions.

    (BTW, is General Plis'Qen a son of the house of Sna'ke? [Big Grin] )

    == Part F ==

    Well, preventing this tragedy would've been easier if I had been given the ships that I asked for. I had planned to place one of my corvette squadrons near Safko, which is relatively near to the route between Sobchak's Planet and Yvel. As it is, beefier point-defense installations for planetary locations is the best bet, because my mobile assets are already tied up defending the trade routes. Considering the population, I'll think about shifting one of my destroyers over that way... but I don't know if that will be effective.

    I will also start drawing up plans for retaliatory raids into Penxi-influenced territory. It will be strictly tit-for-tat, no escalation, and I'll specifically focus my energies on the raiders' strongholds rather than any Penxi colony worlds. But if I can make it clear that launching attacks against the Federation will only cause them more hurt in kind, hopefully they'll come to their senses.

    Oh, and I'll also forward a copy of the records of the raid (carefully redacted in case of security concerns, should the Safkans have any) to General Plis'Qen, as proof of the threat the Penxi hold for both of us.

    == Part G ==

    Your intelligence officer presents you with a rare opportunity: detailed readouts and information of a mid-size raider stronghold and some of its associated craft, located in the unclaimed/uninhabited system near Safko. He's confident that the intel accurately describes the base's defenses and the approximate numbers (and sizes) of the ships in the system. There's an estimated 5 frigate types (Paris-class equivalent) and probably ten small raiders (runabout equivalent). The base itself has defenses equivalent to a basic Federation outpost (think the second-hand reports about Caleb IV). Given your fleet's assets, you have a chance to take this outlier bunch on and send them packing. As a bonus, this base was the probable jump-off point for the recent raid on Safko.

    However, there's some political ambiguity to consider. Although the system is officially unclaimed, it's close enough to Penxi-held space that they may consider it part of their territory. And considering the close ties between the raiders and the Penxi (whether it's actual state-sponsored piracy or the Penxi just looking the other way), an assault on the base may have greater political repercussions. So... to attack, or not to attack? Justify.
     
    Posted by MinutiaeMan (Member # 444) on :
     
    Also, a little reference:
     -
     
    Posted by Shik (Member # 343) on :
     
    Thank you, good sir. I was appaled to find such pitiful images on the web for the Klingon ships.

    As to your question, let me repeat: Starfleet has agreed to your colony plans as well as the requested transport needs. However, only half your requested escorts are available.

    I believe that to be self-explanatory.
     
    Posted by Mikey T (Member # 144) on :
     
    I'm glad that this stuff is way too complicated for my feeble mind...

    I did have time to make this:
    My version of Sector Sobchak

    Maybe next time when it returns to the 24th Century.
     
    Posted by Harry (Member # 265) on :
     
    quote:
    Originally posted by Shik:
    Harry, I'm denying your G5-style shuttle. That's late 2280s tech. Please replace.

    Okay.. so err.. what was the TMP Enterprise using again? I want a standard shuttle, but not the standard shuttle that comes with the Vulcan warp sled (which somehow doesn't really look like a surface workhorse). So just a standard (or possibly slightly updated) TOS shuttle, as seen in TMP:DE?
     
    Posted by MinutiaeMan (Member # 444) on :
     
    Okay, since the Sahara tender is primarily a transport and resupply vessel, I'm taking it.
     
    Posted by Shik (Member # 343) on :
     
    Well, fandom states that it was the sled shuttle (& was seen in TMP in the bay as well, I believe) but I think there might be a Jackill's landing attachment for that. Go look. I'll accept that.

    MM: Gobi is a go. (Mmmmm...aloo gobi....)
     
    Posted by MinutiaeMan (Member # 444) on :
     
    But you didn't answer my question about General Plis'Qen! [Wink]
     
    Posted by MinutiaeMan (Member # 444) on :
     
    Finally, here's my preliminary deployment plan for the sector:
    http://www.st-minutiae.com/academy/command419/example_sobchak_1.png

    To be more specific in my plans, I'll have the new Miranda and Polaris arrivals operate out of K-10 as my "anti-Klingon" patrol force. They're my heaviest ships and will be the strongest deterrent to any major moves that the Klingons make in the "northern" part of the sector. Also, India and the two Avengers will operate out of K-10 as well, but they'll be focusing on the area towards the Ul'chek Nebula, for anti-piracy patrols. Finally, my three Asmodeii, the Skua, and the Predators will be the main anti-piracy squadron for the Safko-Repka-Sobchak's triangle, the critical area that I have to defend for my supply routes and defense against possible Penxi aggression. They'll be spread out a bit, with the Predators forming the linchpin of the patrol towards the center. Not coincidentally, that also places them near Safko, where they can be a reassuring presence in the aftermath of the recent raid

    Yvel and Ogul can be left with their extant defenses for now, because my force is mainly serving as a buffer between them and the border regions. And Espejo is close enough to K-10 that it's protected by the Saratoga squadron.
     
    Posted by Harry (Member # 265) on :
     
    ADDENDUM: I will replace my Galileo 5-type with a regular Class F (TOS shuttlecraft).
     
    Posted by HerbShrump (Member # 1230) on :
     
    Admiral Shrump’s personal communiqué to Admiral Neutrino, Stardate 7716.9

    Admiral Neutrino, I appreciate the imput you have provided regarding the Sochak Sector. I would especially like to note some of your points specifically.

    In regards to the overall balance of the Sobchak Colony agricultural vs. industrial needs, I feel you have hit on a key point. This sector is very well populated. Providing there is no blockade by hostile forces, or a dangerous level of pirate activity, any early deficiencies in the colony's set-up should easily be overcome with imports from the more established Federation worlds.

    A blockade or pirate activity will be the major stumbling point in this plan, however. Unless the convoys to the Sobchak Colony are well escorted, hostile forces will be able to easily strangle the colony of vital goods.

    This brings me to your recommendation as to the size of the colony. A million colonists? What time frame are you projecting in order to reach a million colonists? That figure is a bit extreme, considering that Repka only has 1.8 million inhabitants and Safko has just under a million; and both of these systems are established Federation members.

    Initial colony figures would realistically be roughly 5 to 10 thousand.

    You also mentioned finished products and consumer goods being exported from Sobchak. This is another excellent long-range goal, but not achievable in the immediate time frame. Initial emphasis needs to be placed on establishing a solid agricultural base with enough industry to support the colony.

    I agree with your military analysis of the situation, and your recommendations regarding fleet deployment. If only Starfleet could have filled the entire request. Your suggested fleet movements should provide an adequate patrol force for this region, as well as placing ships within easy reach of any hot spots that may develop.

    I am concerned about your idea to use the Nernst as bait for the pirates in the system. It is a strategically sound idea and, if successful, worth the risk. The cost of losing the science vessel, however, is something to weigh in the balance.

    One concern that I didn’t notice in your report was the heavy Klingon presence in this system. With an entire shipyard located right outside our back door, we must be ever vigilant to a full-fledged attack. The only advantage we have is they would need to transport crews to these new vessels before such an invasion could proceed.

    Klingons are a touchy bunch. Any of our fleet movements may stir them up anyway.

    Heck, they probably are supplying the pirates.

    Station Log, Stardate 7717.0

    Starfleet has approved my request for additional ships for the Sobchak Sector, but only has allocated half of the combat vessels I have requested. I expected my request to be trimmed some. I only hope that, with recent events, we’ll have enough ships to successfully defend this Sector.

    Ships on hand:

    73rd Sector Patrol Squadron
    There is a small standing patrol force homeported at K-10 that makes its rounds in the sector. It is as follows:

    USS India (NCC-1479), Lancaster-class
    USS Skua (NCC-1396), Kestrel-class
    USS Dazzler (NCC-1567) & USS Reporter (NCC-1787), Avenger-class
    USS Buccaneer (NCC-1686) & USS Spanker (NCC-1842), Predator-class
    USS Nernst (NCC-893), Oberth Class
    Additional ships:

    USS Alacrity (NCC-1881), Miranda Class
    USS Pelecyornis (NCC-1414), Kestrel Class
    USS Kite (NCC-1422), Kestrel Class
    USS Roc (NCC-1416), Kestrel Class
    USS Al Rashid (NCC-3802), Ptolemy Class
    Two MK II Cargo Pods
    Two MK IV Cargo Pods
    One Battle Pod

    Freighters:

    USS St. Claire (NCC-F1384), Huron Class Freighter
    USS Sault St. Marie (NCC-F1371), Huron Class Freighter
    USS Lake Michigan (NCC-F1314), Huron Class Freighter
    USS Kuiper (NCC-1545), Antares Class Freighter
    USS Meth-maren (NCC-1511), Antares Class Freighter
    USS Indian (NCC-T47), Ocean Class Freighter
    USS John Galt (NCC-F1524), Starmaster Class Freighter

    The following freighters are being retrofitted as Q-ships

    USS Sullust (NCC-1598), Antares Class
    USS Ruff (NCC-1517), Starmaster Class

    I have divided the fleet and given the following patrol/route assignments:

    The India, Skua and Pelecyornis have been dispatched to the Safko star system, the site of a recent raid by the Penxi. After assessing the situation, and assuring the citizens of Safko of Starfleet’s support and dedication, the three ships will follow a regular patrol route from Safko, along the Ul’Chek Nebula to K-10, back around the upper pininsula of Penxi space, then returning to Safko.

    The Dazzler and Buccaneer will patrol from Sobchak’s Planet, along the Ul’Chek Nebula and the border between Federation and Klingon space, up to just past K-10 before returning to Sobchak’s Planet. This patrol route will also keep these ships relatively close to Safko.

    The Reporter and Spanker will patrol from Sobchak’s Planet "south" along the Federation/Penxi border to the edge of the sector, then return to Sobchak’s Planet.

    The Kite and Roc will patrol from K-10 to Sobchak’s Planet to Safko, then return to K-10

    The Alacrity will proudly display the flag of the Federation as it patrols from K-10 to Repka, then Ogul, then Espejo, then back to K-10

    The Nernst will continue the exploration and mapping of the Ul’Chek Nebula

    Freighter convoys between Sobchak’s Planet and K-10 will be divided into two groups

    Group 1:

    USS St. Claire (NCC-F1384), Huron Class Freighter
    USS Sault St. Marie (NCC-F1371), Huron Class Freighter
    USS Kuiper (NCC-1545), Antares Class Freighter

    The USS Al Rashid will escort this group. She will tow one cargo pod and one battle pod.

    Group 2:

    USS Lake Michigan (NCC-F1314), Huron Class Freighter
    USS Meth-maren (NCC-1511), Antares Class Freighter
    USS Indian (NCC-T47), Ocean Class Freighter
    USS John Galt (NCC-F1524), Starmaster Class Freighter

    The Q-ships Sullust and Ruff will escort this group.

    Starfleet has requested that I oversee the establishment of the settlement on Sobchak’s Planet. Group 2 will therefore be assigned the initial task of delivering the colonists and initial supplies. I’ve requested that Safko supply the raw materials and metals needed for constructing the base colony and the limited mining operation. I have also sent out a request for any Hortas to immigrate to Sobchak’s Planet for mining opportunities. The planet may not be as rocky as Janus, but hopefully I’ll get some eager kids willing to leave the nest.

    Initial food shipments will arrive from Repka. We’ll import enough foodstuffs to last until the agricultural fields start producing adequately. Additionally, a base livestock population will be introduced to Sobchak’s planet. This group will be limited with an eye closely kept on the dangers of introducing alien wildlife into the environment. Federation science specialists will be on hand to determine which local fauna will be good for agricultural purposes. I have sent a request for Yvel to fill this area.

    Lastly, a Starfleet military garrison will be set up for colony defense. A standard satellite defense network will be placed in orbit and adequate ground-based phaser batteries installed.

    A small Penxi raiding party attacked Safko, killing 228 people and stealing numerous supplies. I have been in regular contact with the government of Safko with the goal of allaying their current state of unease. I have arranged for regular patrols to visit Safko and keep an eye on this troublesome spot of the sector. Additionally, I have encouraged the government of Safko of looking into beefing up their local security and defense network. Starfleet advisors are already there helping them recover from this attack.

    My Klingon counterpart, General Plis’Qen, has contacted me. He vehemently opposes the Nerst’s exploration of the Ul’Chek nebula, making the typical claims that we are covertly spying on the Klingon Empire. I have responded to his communiqué (see additional file).

    In light of the Penxi attack, and the probability of a prolonged Klingon military presence on Sobchek’s Planet, I am requesting that Starfleet send the following additional ship:

    Four Valley Forge Class Cruisers
    Four Siegfried Class Dreadnauts
    Six Avenger Class Destroyers
    Two Miranda Class Cruisers

    End log.

    Communiqué to the Penxi government:

    Penxi raiders have attacked a Federation colony in the Safko system claiming the lives of 228 being and stealing various supplies. While Starfleet and the Federation does not view this attack as being officially condoned by your government, we are forced to advice you that such attacks will not be tolerated and the Federation will take measures to defend ourselves from any further acts of aggression, including, but not limited to, finding and eliminating any such raiding parties and their bases of operation.

    Communique to General Plis'Qin, Klingon Defense Force:

    Greetings my dear General Plis'Qin, and welcome ot the Sobchak Sector. I do so hope your staff made you feel as welcome as my staff did up on my arrival.

    You have our utmost regrets over the loss of your vessel in the Ul'Chek Nebula. Sadly, those valiant warriors now serving in Sto'Vo'Kor are the only ones that know exactly what happened to them. Like your vessles and outposts, ours have been plagued by Penxi assaults, pirate raids and unusual encounters. Our survey ship, the USS Nernst, is currently investigating one of those mysterious readings in the nebula. Rest assured this mission is purely scientific and not one of a clandestine nature. We are Starfleet officers, not Romulans. We are not in the habit of using cloaks or camoflage and spy on our neighbors. We are honorable warriors, not green-blooded cowards.

    We have noticed the approach of your colony vessels toward Sobchak's Planet. I hope you have a successful colony established. Our colony will stand by to assist you in any way necessary.

    Do feel free to visit us at K-10 anytime. Our doors are always open for your staff's colorful shore-leave visits.

    I have sent a special package with this communication. I hope you find our whiskey to your liking. It's not as potent as blood wine, but still enjoyable.

    May you feast on the hearts of your enemies!
    Herb Shrump, Admiral, Starfleet Command, Sobchak Sector.
     
    Posted by HerbShrump (Member # 1230) on :
     
    Proposal for the class:

    A civilian science vessel, the S.S. Nye, has arrived at Deep Space Station K-10 with word of an interesting discovery. While doing an exploration/mapping survey for a Tellerite mining consortium in the starsystem directly "Souteast" of Sobchak's Planet, they detected unusal energy reading eminating from the fourth planet in the system. These energy readings were very faint and only detectable from a range of about 2 AUs from the planet.

    Upon closer examination, the crew of the Nye discovered the remains of a modest size settlement of unknown origin. Initial dating of the structures place the site as being thousands of years old. It is unclear if this site was an outpost of the Calandans (TOS "That Which Survives"), the T'Kon Empire (TNG "The Last Outpost") or some as-yet undiscovered civilization.

    This system is located very close to both Penxi and Klingon territory. While it appears these two civilizations have not discovered the ruins yet, it may only be a matter of time, since there is evidence Penxi raiders have visited the outer planets of the system.

    How do you preserve the site for Federation arcaeologist/Starfleet scientists while, at the same time, not attracting the attention of the Klingons or Penxi to the possibility of an advanced alien base with potentially unimaginable weapons and advanced scientific knowledge just outside their back door?
     
    Posted by MinutiaeMan (Member # 444) on :
     
    Psst... Herb, you forgot to make your own scenario. [Wink]

    EDIT: Nevermind, you did it while I was reading your answers.
     
    Posted by HerbShrump (Member # 1230) on :
     
    Writing these answers in narrative form is taking far more time than I anticipated.
     
    Posted by Shik (Member # 343) on :
     
    You don't ahve to do it in narrative form, Herb. In fact. it would be easiest if you (& others) adopted the simplistic answer style used by MinutiaeMan...which is of course a holdover form the Mark-era YTAs.
     
    Posted by Neutrino 123 (Member # 1327) on :
     
    Question 2:

    Part A

    Minutiaeman (and others), why did you get so many powerful ships when you were supposed to get ESCORTS! You have enough ships to roll over the Klingons now... [Big Grin]
    Furthermore, your anti-piracy strategy seems to revolve more around hunter-killer groups then actually escorting transports. As the first two World Wars showed, with limited resources, it is much better to escort the transports directly in convoys. True, relative detection ranges are greater in space, but it is also three-dimensional, and the downsides of convoys are reduced via the transporter.
    In addition to the transports, you need to protect the small colonies. If even one pirate ship slips through your defenses, it could do a lot of damage.
    Finally, with all your ships, you have left Nernst unescorted! That nebula is pirate-city, so even though the Nernst would detect the pirates first, it is still dangerous.

    Part B

    What? I ask for two measly Kestrel class destroyers and I only get one [Wink] ? Damn you Starfleet Command!
    Okay, I now have a choice between two Kestrel-class vessels. Choices, choices... hmmm... I’ll go with the USS Condor NCC-1419. Now my fleet has:

    Lancaster-Class CA:
    USS India NCC-1479
    Avenger-Class DD:
    USS Dazzler NCC-1567
    USS Reporter NCC-1787
    Predator-Class DD:
    USS Buccaneer NCC-1686
    USS Spanker NCC-1842
    Kestrel-Class DD:
    USS Skua NCC-1396
    USS Condor NCC-1419

    I thought Starfleet would want to establish a colony that could actually interact as a full partner with the other colonies and planets in the system (judging from the size of various colonies such as Alpha Centauri it certainly has the ability), but just a 5000-person outpost should be able to make a large contribution as well. However, the limited size means that the colony will need to be more limited to an agricultural focus with a much smaller amount of industry (not enough to support Safko or itself independently with industry, but enough for full food supply support), at least for the near-future.

    The colonization plan will also change slightly. Instead of multiple transport routes to Sobchak’s planet, there will only be one, with Escort being provided by the two Kestrels (one a small ways ahead of the transports to hopefully provide some early-warning and one for close escort). See picture below for convoy route:
     -

    The thick line indicates the area where the two Kestrels will escort ships. The medium line is where the Avengers will take over (within safe response time of their colonies). Thin lines are unescorted routes, but they are far from pirates, except for the lower one, but ships will not pass on that route without the convoy being fairly close to Safko, making it safe as well.

    Without explaining things in exact detail, the escorted route provides supplies for both Sobchak’s planet and Safko. One or more ships splits off on the lower route as the convoy passes Safko, and they return to the escorts on the way back. Near Repka, thr upward bound merchants leave the escorted route, and a new set of merchants arrive. The set that left does more merchanty-things, and arrives again to rejoin the next time the convoy returns to Repka.

    So basically, there are two alternating merchant groups in the Repka-Safko-Sobchak route, plus one ‘permanent’ group in Yvel-Safko-Sobchak route. The initial entry of the merchants (with all the colonists) will be the permanent group and one of the other groups, with the final group bringing in its colonists when the first alternating group leaves its escorts.

    Part C

    I am not sure about carrying capacities, but extrapolating upward with the Klingon transports as a basis, how about we have five Sahara-class transports total: two in the alternating groups, and one in the permanent group. If necessary, more could easily be added to any group.

    The initial supplies will include the colonists, basic housing materials, and food supplies. A few biologists will also be temporarily transported to the Lancaster, and use its facilities for determining the optimal crops for the planet, perhaps modifying some crops for superior suitability. Mid-range sensors and basic defenses will also be brought along. The Lancaster may be attached to the colony, but as with all ships in the sector, its main mission may be temporarily canceled in an emergency, in which case it would be good to have early warning if pirates take advantage of the emergency.

    The next set of supplies will include the rest of the colonists and their housing, as well as the proper material for growing things.

    Subsequent sets will begin to include basic industry as some colonists not involved with farming complete their initial tasks. Shipments will also begin to upgrade the colonists’ standards of living to what could be expected in an up-and-running Federation colony.

    Part D

    That’s a lot of escorts for a few merchant vessels. The Klingons probably want to use Sobchak’s planet as a forward base for operations against the pirates, possibly against the Penxi, and of course to threaten Federation possessions in the ‘lower’ area. The bottom line is that the Klingons do seem to have a lot more to gain strategically from possession of Sobchak’s planet then the Federation does.

    Part E

    A message should be sent to the Klingons detailing the true purpose of the Nernst, to survey the nebula, and possibly to uncover secret pirate bases. If we wanted to spy on the Klingons, we would be popping in and out of the edge of the nebula with long-range sensors. If the Klingons doubt our intentions, they could by all means send some of their own ships into the nebula to moniter the Nernst (though NOT with active sensors, so stealthlyness is maintained). We could, gasp, even coordinate a search for pirates. Finally, it should be detailed that the Federation is most displeased with the Penxi.

    The Federation is still probably in something of a cold war with the Klingons, but it is not nearly as bad as it was before the Organian treaty. There are opportunities to significantly improve relations, but things must be done carefully. A strong face must be presented to the Klingons. For example, the Federation should not ask for their help without first having a clear show of strength, to make it seem that we are not pleading, but simply asking to work together.

    This is infact the general plan for this sector. The current disposition means that some pirates will hopefully be caught soon. After this victory of sorts, increased diplomatic efforts could be made with the Klingons to take more forceful action against the pirates, or more specifically, against the Penxi. The Penxi may be defiant against the Federation or Klingons independently, but they couldn’t help but feel great pressure if both were working together. Thus, it would be suggested to the Klingons after some pirates are destroyed to for a united front against the Penxi, to get them to purge corruption in their government and deal with pirates in their territory, or else the Federation and Klingon Empire might do it for them.

    Part F

    Well, with my deployment, Safko will be defended by a powerful destroyer. Furthermore, it will be a major stop on the route of the escorted convoy, again increasing its safety. Surely they could bear one destroyer based in their area. If not, the destroyer could be homeported in Refka, switching with one of the Kestrels when it needs to get some maintenance and supplies. The escorted convoy passing through shouldn’t trouble them much as well.

    Also, Safko would make a great place for a long-range sensor installation (Sobchak’s planet would be a bit better, but would upset the Klingons). Would the peaceful space-quakers be upset by the presence of a long-range sensor near them? Probably not, and it could be used to spy on the Penxi and perhaps track some pirate movements near the hub of merchant activity.

    Part G

    The Nernst finds in the nebula an unmistakably Penxi transport vessel transferring supply to a pirate raider. The Nernst remains undetected. How do you proceed?


    Now stop asking about convoys and colonization! My fingers hurt from the typing...
     
    Posted by MinutiaeMan (Member # 444) on :
     
    I'm going to respond to Neutrino's critiques, since I assume that it's not going to be part of the next question. If it is, I'll just have my work done early! [Wink]

    I took the word "escorts" to mean "combat-capable starships" for general defense of the sector. I requested the Miranda and the destroyers mainly to free up the equivalent heavy ships already assigned to the sector for anti-pirate duty. I view the strategic deployment of starships to be a bit more fluid -- at least, in theory. Any of the ships should be able to be redeployed at any moment. For example, what if I've got a huge convoy, and some intel that the Penxi intend to throw their heavy cruisers against it? Then I'll need to send in the Miranda for adequate defense.

    As far as the deployment of "hunter-killer" teams, all Starfleet transports are well capable of defending themselves for short periods of time (c.f. "The Pirates of Orion"). Long enough for any nearby starships to respond. My hope (and I forgot to mention this, actually) is that I'll be able to catch the pirates in the act and nail a bigger percentage of their forces in the bargain. But just sending in heavy escorts will do nothing but discourage attacks against the escorted transports, and the pirates will just focus on civilian traffic instead. (You did remember the civilians, I hope?) By spreading the net a bit wider, there's the chance of a few attacks slipping through, but I'll still be in position to close the net and catch the attackers, with a minimum of overall damage done.
     
    Posted by Neutrino 123 (Member # 1327) on :
     
    As a response to the response...

    Ack! You're pulling out TAS referances on me? I haven't even seen those... (though should I?)

    At any rate, I thought that virtually all the transports would be civilian, unless Starfleet is responsible for colonizing...

    I would think the transports I alloted would also be sufficient for Safko after the initial deliveries. At any rate, civilian craft could use the escorted route as well, or at least be the escorted areas if they have different optimal speeds then the Ocean transports...

    To Herbshrump, the Nernst isn't quite "bait". It's just that the escort isn't right next to it, but rather, a few seconds warp-jump away.

    As a general note on colony sizes, I was under the impression that the Federation could move massive numbers of people very quickly, so I just chose a colony size that would seem to be optimum for the sector.
    Colonies such as Alpha Centauri and Espejo in this sector (each with people numbering in the BILLIONS), seem to confirm the Federation's transport ability, even if they've been growing for a hundred years and have high rates of birth...
     
    Posted by HerbShrump (Member # 1230) on :
     
    I took it that the transports and freighters were Starfleet issue. They are listed in the Starfleet Museum (of course, so are Klingons and Romulans) and they have NCC registries (unlike the civilian ship Vico from TNG's Hero Worship that had a registry of NAR).

    What I'm wondering is how will these scenerios play out if one of us does something completely radical from the others. For example, something is going on in the Ul'Chek nebula, but what if I had pulled the Nernst out of there completely and ignored that situation? Or what if most everyone else makes Safko heavily fortified, but I tell them to go jump in a lake, only to have another attack come along?

    That's what I'm waiting to see. Right now we're all thinking along similar lines.
     
    Posted by MinutiaeMan (Member # 444) on :
     
    Don't worry, Neutrino, I haven't seen TAS either. I've just read Bernd's summaries and a few tidbits on Memory Alpha.

    I've figured that the transports and freighters that WE'VE requested are Starfleet issue, but that there are also a whole bunch more ships flitting about that are civilian as well.
     
    Posted by HerbShrump (Member # 1230) on :
     
    My fleet deployment map.

    Notes:

    FREIGHTER GROUP 1 will travel from Sobchak's Planet to Safko to DS-K10. K10 will serve as a major hub.

    FREIGHTER GROUP 2: will travel from Sobchak's Plaent to Safko to Yvel. Safko will serve as a hub.

    The route from Sobchak's Planet to Safko will be within easy reach from either the India/Skua/Pelecyronis group, the Dazzler/Buccaneer group, the Reporter/Spanker group or the Kite/Roc group. Efforts will be made for one of these groups to provide convoy escort for this leg of the trip whenever possible.

    The Nernst will be within easy reach from either the India/Skua/Pelecyronis group, the Dazzler/Buccaneer group or the Kite/Roc group. One of these groups will be able to respond if the Nernst encounters any difficulty.

    http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y255/HerbShrump/sobchakdeploy.jpg
     
    Posted by MinutiaeMan (Member # 444) on :
     
    I think my security officers had better check the subspace tranceiver array for sabotage... I haven't received any communiqués from Starfleet Command in over a week? Is there a war on that no one thought to tell me about?

    [Razz]
     
    Posted by Mikey T (Member # 144) on :
     
    Vacation!
     
    Posted by Shik (Member # 343) on :
     
    Nothing this weekend. No time, plus possible work upheavals. Next week. In the meantime, brush up on your guid to dealing with officious nits.
     
    Posted by MinutiaeMan (Member # 444) on :
     
    Taking a page from Sector Zeta, are we? [Wink]
     
    Posted by MinutiaeMan (Member # 444) on :
     
    Hmm... is it considered insubordination or otherwise against regulations to report a superior officer for going AWOL? [Razz]
     
    Posted by Shik (Member # 343) on :
     
    Illness. Fundmental life shock. Unemployed AGAIN.

    Shut it. I'll get to it soon enough.
     
    Posted by MinutiaeMan (Member # 444) on :
     
    Okay, sorry. Didn't know things were serious. [Embarrassed]
     
    Posted by Shik (Member # 343) on :
     
    QUESTION THREE (six parts)


  • Answer ONE scenario designed by another player in Q2.7. You may NOT answer your own. Answers to this segment will have no major bearing on the rest of the scenario.

  • The Klingon force comes under attack from unknown assailants while transiting the Ul'Chek Nebula. Those players with elements stationed in or near the the nebula, those elements have responded to assist the Klingons. Despite the battle, 2 D-18s have been crippled & are now straggling about 4 days behind the rest of the fleet; a D-6 & 2 B'rels have been detached to continue to escort them. General Plis'Qen is screaming a Federation setup: since the quickest route to Sobchak's Planet is through the nebula, you & your "Starfleet masters" have conspired to deny the Klingons their rights. Is this a case of post hoc, ergo propter hoc? Address the issue.

  • The majority of the Klingon colonization force has arrived at Sobchak's Planet and when they arrive, they take up the same exact spot that you'd planned on establishing the Federation colony. When you inform the Klingons of this, both General Plis'Qen & the colony leader, Governor Valg, say what effectively amounts to "tough shit." What now?

  • The Federation colony force arrives at K-10. Along with it comes the leader & provisional colony head, Deputy Sector Undersecretary Qiao Feng. DSU Qiao is an officious nit who speaks only in the placations of bureaucracy & claims a family heritage of service extending back to the Xia Dynasty of China. He demands that you remove the Klingon colony from the spot they've occupied & resettle them elsewhere. He doesn't go as far as to actually SAY "by any means necessary" but it's certainly implicit in tone & body language.

  • A rumor reaches you that the leaders of Espejo V have contacted the governments of Yvel IV, Repka II, & Ogul VI to propose forming an active sector defense union that would operate outside of Starfleet jurisdiction. The rumors imply that the union would be comprised of local forces from the four worlds with a mandate to have ships patrol along the borders--not the system borders, but the UFP borders, stop suspected pirate vessels, actions of that sort. At the moment, you hear only whispers. Describe your thoughts. Sketch out any plans or possibilities that arise from your contemplations.

  • Your Sector Operations Officer comes to you late one night & reports an odd increase in computer activity. He notes that the items pulled have been things like proposed defenses of Sobchak's Planet, colony proposals, & archives on the concept of totalitarian agriculture. He also reports that the access codes in effect for these odd pulls are those for Undersecretary Qiao.
     
    Posted by MinutiaeMan (Member # 444) on :
     
    == Part A ==
    quote:
    Originally posted by HerbShrump:
    A civilian science vessel, the S.S. Nye, has arrived at Deep Space Station K-10 with word of an interesting discovery. While doing an exploration/mapping survey for a Tellerite mining consortium in the starsystem directly "Souteast" of Sobchak's Planet, they detected unusal energy reading eminating from the fourth planet in the system. These energy readings were very faint and only detectable from a range of about 2 AUs from the planet.

    Upon closer examination, the crew of the Nye discovered the remains of a modest size settlement of unknown origin. Initial dating of the structures place the site as being thousands of years old. It is unclear if this site was an outpost of the Calandans (TOS "That Which Survives"), the T'Kon Empire (TNG "The Last Outpost") or some as-yet undiscovered civilization.

    This system is located very close to both Penxi and Klingon territory. While it appears these two civilizations have not discovered the ruins yet, it may only be a matter of time, since there is evidence Penxi raiders have visited the outer planets of the system.

    How do you preserve the site for Federation arcaeologist/Starfleet scientists while, at the same time, not attracting the attention of the Klingons or Penxi to the possibility of an advanced alien base with potentially unimaginable weapons and advanced scientific knowledge just outside their back door?

    An intriguing dilemma, this. The first step would be to perform a clandestine but intensive survey of the ruins. To that end, I'd procure a civilian survey-type ship to make a roundabout trip through that region and drop off my survey team, then continue on to other destinations before looping back (perhaps, depending on the time table) to pick the team up again. The goal would be misdirection to ensure that neither the Klingons nor the Penxi pick up on my interest in the system. Therefore, the team will be under strict orders to observe complete radio silence except in an emergency situation, and to avoid any sort of high-energy emissions that might attract unwanted attention.

    The survey team's goals would be (1) determine the origin and purpose of the settlement and any equipment and artifacts found, (2) the feasibility of safely removing such equipment and artifacts in a reasonable amount of time, and (3) determine the potential threat any technology discovered could pose if acquired by either the Klingons or the Penxi.

    Depending on the nature of the site and the technology found, I've got three major choices:

    (1) Remove all items of interest and take them back for study by Federation scientists. This would be the most preferred, because it avoids creating any territorial dispute or military conflict.

    (2) Should the site warrant extended investigation but not pose a major threat, I could plant a small mining colony on the surface, preferably very close to the ruins. This would establish a territorial claim (but one that could be easily abandoned if necessary). The purpose of the mining colony would be solely to obscure those intriguing energy signatures, to act as a sort of decoy. However, the problem here is that I'd be presenting a very ripe target for the Penxi or the Klingons, and I'd rather not have to extend my patrol forces any further. A couple of extra corvettes would be preferred in such a case.

    (3) The choice of last resort would be to remove anything portable, and then send in the Skua (stationed at Sobchak's Planet) to obliterate the site from orbit with photon torpedoes. (c.f. the Iconian outpost from "Contagion") Of course, this would be bound to attract attention, so I'd have to be sure to be quite thorough about it.

    == Part B ==

    I'd hope that the captain of the India and the two destroyers that went in were conspicuous enough that they were able to assist in the fight while within the sensor range of the Klingon ships. I will offer General Plis'Qen the services of my three ships as supplementary escort for his convoy for the duration of their transit through the Ul'Chek Nebula.

    I'll also make sure to point out that the Federation is not in the business of attacking civilian targets, and if we really wanted to block their settlement of Sobchak's, it'd be done in a far more efficient fashion. Hopefully the good general has at least a small sense of reason in him...

    == Part C ==

    Nothing happens. There's a reason why I ordered that multiple potential sites be chosen for the settlement!

    However, I may need to step up my office's counterintelligence operations... it's an awfully convenient coincidence that the Klingons picked the exact same spot that we did!

    == Part D ==

    If DSU Qiao really wanted that one spot so badly, then he shouldn't have been taking his damn time getting his colonists out here — I expected that the settlement should've been established in the last turn, not two turns from now! I trust he's familiar with the old proverb, "The early bird gets the worm"? I will politely tell him to fuck off.

    == Part E ==

    Hmm. As a fan of the show, I've always wondered why there never seemed to be any local defense organizations separate from Starfleet. I mean, the US has the Navy and the Army, but they've also got the Coast Guard for local patrol and police actions. It would be crazy for the Federation to NOT have some similar setup as well. I'm going to assume that the local worlds actually DO have such an organization, and this secret proposal they're working on is actually to extend the mandate of the original jurisdiction to include anti-piracy patrols throughout the sector.

    I won't react until I get some more firm intel on exactly what they're trying to set up, if anything. Assuming the rumor is accurate... well, patrolling JUST the UFP borders for pirates is next to useless. Space is three-dimensional, so it's easy for any determined attackers to slip through the cracks. Coverage must be in-depth in order to discourage and thwart any attacks. I'd be more than willing to work with the various worlds to expand the reach of their local defense ships in order to protect commercial traffic and guard against pirates. However, turning the defense forces into a sector-wide patrol fleet would (1) be a waste of resources, duplicating the job that Starfleet is doing, and (2) probably spread the planetary defenses way too thin and leaving everyone vulnerable to a major attack.

    Therefore, what I'd propose is a means to extend the reach of the planetary defense ships' patrols out a few more light-years from their homeworlds, to create a series of "bubbles" that should hopefully become pirate-free zones. Starfleet would assist in filling in the gaps between those zones, and reinforce the local defenses where necessary.

    I'll be diplomatic about this, because this is certainly an extraordinary situation in a region where Starfleet obviously hasn't been able (or willing? I hope not...) to pour in additional resources. Therefore, we can hopefully work together to create a more cohesive defense.

    One final thought... perhaps a series of inter-connected sensor relay stations would be in order along the major commerce routes, as well? Working in concert with the planetary defenses, perhaps we could establish a more united monitoring setup similar to the air traffic control systems of pre-warp Earth. Being able to keep tabs on all the major routes would go a long way towards providing better defenses. We wouldn't have to wait for a distress call to actually come in before we have to start reacting... we can keep tabs on everything and be more prepared.

    == Part F ==

    Is the deputy undersecretary cleared for access to Starfleet's files on our defenses? This is the kind of activity that makes Mr. Qiao look like a Klingon agent... and a particularly inept one, at that. (Despite Arne Darvin getting caught, he was actually quite a GOOD agent... he had a good sabotage plan and a good cover, and he was only caught because of a bizarre little alien creature that he could never have foreseen either destroying his plan or revealing his identity.) But that's an accusation I'll have to keep in reserve, at least for the moment. For now, I'll just sic my intelligence officer on him, put him under covert surveillance.

    The research on totalitarian agriculture particularly disturbs me. The entire point of establishing this colony is to prove that the Federation is best suited towards developing the planet and making best use of its resources... and for the Federation, that means sustainable and eco-friendly development. I may have to have a sit-down and do a little fishing (without revealing what I know) to see what kind of plans Mr. Qiao has for the colony. And I may have to do some research of my own, to see what kind of plans the Office of Colony Development has been putting together.
     
    Posted by MinutiaeMan (Member # 444) on :
     
    I feel like shit today (called out of work, even, something that hasn't happened in almost a year), but I can't sleep because I slept for an exceptionally long time last night. Thus, I've had time to do this:

     -

    ...Courtesy of Flaming Pear's LunarCell Photoshop plugin.
     
    Posted by MinutiaeMan (Member # 444) on :
     
    I forgot to mention my [retro-]rationalization for choosing those two points in my own map: As I stated in my original plan, the first choice of a colony location was to be the best balance between agriculture and mining, to lock the Klingons out of their likely resource-hogging strategy. The middle continent would probably be the best bet for that, because it's got the fertile coastal regions but a high central mountain range. I chose the second location for the Federation colony because it looks to be a very temperate area with an extensive region of freshwater lakes, which makes for great agricultural development and population expansion. It'll be really easy to set up a whole bunch of settlements with an interconnected water-based transportation network.

    Also, here's a blank generic and more detailed version for everyone else to use:

     -

    (But please don't mindlessly use my sites for the colonies in your own responses... I'd love to see some alternative reasoning for interpreting the geography!)

    [ September 21, 2006, 01:35 PM: Message edited by: MinutiaeMan ]
     
    Posted by MinutiaeMan (Member # 444) on :
     
    Also, because I'm really obsessive-compulsive, I've exported a very large map for everyone to pour over and select colony sites, should they so wish. [Wink]

    EDIT: Err, as soon as the damn file finishes uploading, it'll be available...

    EDIT #2: Flare Upload is too damn slow for big files. Try it on my iDisk instead.

    [ September 21, 2006, 03:15 PM: Message edited by: MinutiaeMan ]
     
    Posted by Shik (Member # 343) on :
     
    Thirty minutes later & it's still not up? Wow. Also, FUCKING WOW on that map. 18.5 degree axial tilt? Nice...minimal seasonal affectation.

    Assume that because the computer granted Qiao's request, he is in fact cleared for access, probably due to his title.
     
    Posted by MinutiaeMan (Member # 444) on :
     
    I originally tried putting it on Flare Upload, 'cause my iDisk is getting full. But I cleared out all my old backups, so I've got plenty of free space again. Check the new link on the old post.

    (Or if you're too lazy to go back to the other page, click here.)
     
    Posted by MinutiaeMan (Member # 444) on :
     
    So, are we going to have to cite some admirals for dereliction of duty again? [Razz]
    (Not you, Shik, the participants.)
     
    Posted by Shik (Member # 343) on :
     
    Apparently.
     
    Posted by MinutiaeMan (Member # 444) on :
     
    I move that we adopt Cardassian rules for any new court martial proceedings. All in favor? [Big Grin]
     
    Posted by Neutrino 123 (Member # 1327) on :
     
    Question 3:

    Part a:

    In response to Minutiaeman’s scenario, a quick attack would be the best option. The combat forces in the nebula would be recalled (two Predators), and the convoy would stop at Safko, after trading a Kestral for the Avenger at Repka. Then the convoy would stay at Safko, with it’s Kestral escort providing defense, while the other Avenger stationed at Safko joins the strike force, now two Avengers and two Predators. The strike force would quickly proceed to the target.
    The Penxi may get disgruntled about this, but it is not their territory, so they have no real jurisdiction over it. As a concession to their proximity, they would be informed of the attack via subspace communications before it takes place, but NOT before they would have time to send a message to the pirate outpost.

    Part b:

    It must have been a pretty powerful pirate force that got past the Klingon escorts to damage their ships. I am worried that they decided to take advantage of the Klingon’s haste to get to the planet, and thus divided the Klingons forces in the initial attack, planning to return to attack the weakened forces. The two Predators and one Oberth in the nebula should really be dispatched to not only assist, but to escort the Klingon stragglers.
    The Klingons belligerency complicates the situation, since they might think that the Federation ship’s might pass knowledge of the stragglers location to the pirates. Nevertheless, this would only be of great importance if pirates actually attacked, and then Federation ships would fight the pirates
    Thus, the Oberth and two Predators will escort the Klingon stragglers through the rest of the nebula, with the Oberth there to provide early warning. If the Klingons are not comfortable with a close escort, they would remain further away, but still with close response time.

    As for the Klingons accusations of foul play, there probably isn’t much we can do, other then inform them that the destruction of piracy is one of the Federation’s main goals in this sector. Afterall, they just killed several of our civilians, and that can’t be a ruse since you know how disgruntled the Federations gets when its citizens get killed.

    Part c:

    There really is not much we can do here. There are plenty of other good agricultural areas on this planet (unless it has REALLY weird weather) for the colony to be built. In fact, the Klingon colony is likely to be less prosperous since it is built in an area best for agriculture, so perhaps we now have an advantage in the colonization race.

    On the other hand, the fact that the Klingons built on the exact spot the Federation wanted to spells trouble. They must somehow have known where we were planning to build the colony, since if they had optimized their choice for mining, they would have built somewhere else. This indicates that they have a source of information within the Federation. An undercover investigation of this should take place as soon as possible.

    Part d:

    DSU Qiao Feng is obviously really stupid. We have no authority to remove the Klingons at all, so I would give him a stern lecture.

     -

    This guy is probably incompetent, why else would he mention family ancestry in non-casual conversation? If he actually does have a bad record, I want him removed from this sector as quickly as possible. The best way to do this would be to search his record for the no doubt many inadequacies and make the recommendation to the colonization administration. Hopefully it isn’t headed by one of his illustrious family members...

    At the very least, he is not to be given any weapons control for the colony’s defenses due to his temper and high belligerency. Starfleet personnel will handle any defenses, though the colonists will certainly be consulted.

    Part e:

    It is good that the planets see fit to take an active role in the defenses, but they are going about it in the wrong way. Border patrol, as Minutiaeman mentioned, is not the best way for dealing with pirates, especially since they might have a secret base within Federation territory, making the border patrol COMPLETELY useless. Also, if they operate independently, the overall defense will be less efficient, since Starfleet and the local forces may duplicate effort.

    The planets will be approached, and it would be suggested that they form some patrol groups to patrol the shipping lanes, or even create civilian convoys composed of civilian ships that are not in the Starfleet-protected convoy.

    There would be no need to mention the rumors when talking to the planets. A simple persuasive approach would be suitable, emphasizing that Starfleet may have failed to provide adequate defense in the past, but now there’s a new commander around... [Cool]

    Part f:

    These are perfectly reasonable things for him to look up. After all, he is the colony administrator (for now...). The totalitarian agriculture is a bit weird, and it would be contrary to Federation principles to implement such a thing. However, it COULD simply be his hobby.

    There is no need to confront him about any of this things, but I am still suspicious that he might be partially working for the Klingons, especially with their apparent knowledge of the colony’s location. The investigation would certainly cover Qiao, and his communications would be watched. I wonder if the Klingons are planning on some totalitarian agriculture? One would think their agriculture is already like that, though...

    Another possibility is that he is not working for the Klingons, but secretly wants to implement totalitarian agriculture himself. Due to colonial rights, it might be difficult to stop him if he gets going, so hopefully there is some way to emphasize ecological friendliness in the colony...

    Addendum on colony location: I chose the colony locations based on my limited knowledge of climate. It seemed that the equator was too hot, but that the temperature gradiant was large, so I didn't want to be too far from the equator. The colony location are near water, but not directly on the coast, so they should get decent rainfall (they are not in mountain range shadows), be fairly temperate, and have mild weather. One is coastal, and the other is near a lake.


    P.S. Minutiaeman, wasn’t the Federation colony supposed to contain 5,000 people?
     
    Posted by Shik (Member # 343) on :
     
    You are correct, sir.
     
    Posted by MinutiaeMan (Member # 444) on :
     
    Yeah well, if I know anything about colonization from Terran history, it's that there's always a huge rush of people eager to get in on the hot frontier action. Plus, Humans breed like rabbits, so there's gonna be a bunch more very quickly. [Wink]
     
    Posted by HerbShrump (Member # 1230) on :
     
    Part 1:
    quote:
    Your intelligence officer presents you with a rare opportunity: detailed readouts and information of a mid-size raider stronghold and some of its associated craft, located in the unclaimed/uninhabited system near Safko. He's confident that the intel accurately describes the base's defenses and the approximate numbers (and sizes) of the ships in the system. There's an estimated 5 frigate types (Paris-class equivalent) and probably ten small raiders (runabout equivalent). The base itself has defenses equivalent to a basic Federation outpost (think the second-hand reports about Caleb IV). Given your fleet's assets, you have a chance to take this outlier bunch on and send them packing. As a bonus, this base was the probable jump-off point for the recent raid on Safko.

    However, there's some political ambiguity to consider. Although the system is officially unclaimed, it's close enough to Penxi-held space that they may consider it part of their territory. And considering the close ties between the raiders and the Penxi (whether it's actual state-sponsored piracy or the Penxi just looking the other way), an assault on the base may have greater political repercussions. So... to attack, or not to attack? Justify.

    Starfleet and the Federation cannot sit idly by while "pirates" raid Federation colonies. Ignoring the situation will only encourage it to continue. The Penxi need to realize the Federation is here to stay and Starfleet is not to be trifiled with. Otherwise, they will seek to dominate the entire sector.

    To that end, the suspected pirate base of operations needs to be eliminated. Loss of life is not the primary objective to this strike; but, rather, the elimination of a base of operations as a launching point for attacks against the Federation. Secondary objective would be potentially eliminating pirate ships, but this may be beyond our scope at this time.

    Therefore, an inventive strike will be conducted without sacrificing any Starfleet vessels from their regular patrol routes.

    The tug USS Al Rashid (NCC-3802) will arrive in system as secretly as possible. A suitable asteroid of sufficient size and mass will be sent on an intercept trajectory with the suspected pirate base. An object moving at .25c (full impulse) can traverse the distance from Sol’s asteroid field to Earth in roughly 64 minutes.

    If the Enterprise couldn’t destroy or deflect the asteroid that approached Miramanee’s planet, then the 5 pirate vessels won’t be able to stop this one.

    If detected right away, the hour before impact may be sufficient time to evacuate the base, but the base would be a total loss.

    The asteroid doesn’t need to be huge. At most the devastation would reach a Tunguska level event. This would have negligible overall impact on the planet’s ecosystem.

    We will, of course, contact the Penxi government one hour before impact to inform them that we have uncovered a clandestine pirate base operating outside their sphere of influence and that we are in the process of eliminating said base. We are committed to keeping this sector peaceful for all citizens, including the Penxi.

    Part 2:

    Ships responding to aid the Klingons:

    USS India (NCC-1479)
    USS Skua (NCC-1396)
    USS Nernst (NCC-893)
    USS Pelecyornis (NCC-1414)
    USS Kite (NCC-1422)
    USS Roc (NCC-1416)


    The Skua & Pelecyornis will escort the main colony fleet while the Kite & Roc will escort the wounded D-18s. The India & Nernst will position themselves between the two fleets, with the Nernst using her sensors to scan for any more hostiles.

    Meanwhile, we will assuage the Klingons, and Plis’Qen that we had nothing to do with the attack. In fact, our colonies and ships have been attacked recently too. Starfleet is not in the habit of conducting cowardly attacks. Besides, our two peoples are at peace and I’m firmly behind the Organian vision of a united future.

    Part 3:

    My initial recommendation for the colony assumed the Klingons were already in place. I recommended we take position on the opposite side of the planet. I still hold to that recommendation. It’s a big planet with plenty of quality spots.

    Further, we would contact the Klingons and welcome them to the neighborhood. If they have any needs, please feel free to ask or stop by for a visit, as we are always happy to entertain our neighbors. Further, we would repeatedly and "over the to" commend them of their choice of colony location. The hope, of course, being to make them suspicious of the location and maybe move elsewhere.

    Meanwhile, a full investigation would be launched as to how the Klingons knew where we were going to establish the colony. The planet is big and the odds of them settling where we were is so remote that it’s obvious they had help. The leak needs found and plugged.

    Part 4:

    We will assure and placate Qiao Feng that we are doing everything in our power to resolve the situation. We would highlight the problems and drawbacks with the Klingons choice of settlement, and magnify the favorable conditions of the new site we picked. I would keep giving Qiao the runaround and doubletalk, hoping the problem will fade away. The Klingons are there, they are staying and we can’t remove them.

    Part 5:
    Ahh. A Minuteman operation. Interesting. We would definitely keep an eye on the situation and try to find out all we could, even as far as inserting our own operatives within their program. We would want to find out where they were getting supplies, ships, and personnel. What plans do they have for the patrol and securing of the boarder?

    Officially we would discourage such activities and highlight the fact that Starfleet is handling the situation and has increased the boarder patrol already.

    Part 6:
    As long as the plans aren’t classified Starfleet documents, then where is the harm? Personally, I still suspect a spy somewhere in the operations. To that end, false information would be planted within the computer files to help ferret out the suspect.

    Officially and formally I would never mention the false files and act as though they don’t exist.

    Let Qiao go play all he wants….
     
    Posted by Mikey T (Member # 144) on :
     
    Herb... a "rogue" astroid reminds me of the episode in ST VOY called Rise. Isn't that a bit... well extreme?
     
    Posted by HerbShrump (Member # 1230) on :
     
    Wasn't that the episode with Neelex and the space elevator/orbital tether?

    I was going for unique and different. When I first thought of the idea, I wanted somthing that may, on the surface, appear natural. Something Starfleet could deny doing.

    Then I thought: No, credit should be taken or else there is no point.

    My back up plan would have been for a ship to show up and fire drones at the base. Think cruise missles in space.
     
    Posted by MinutiaeMan (Member # 444) on :
     
    quote:
    Something Starfleet could deny doing.
    Exactly how could Starfleet deny being behind the sudden acceleration of an asteroid to .25 lightspeed? Regardless of the results, that's a darn unlikely occurrence under natural circumstances. [Wink]
     
    Posted by Shik (Member # 343) on :
     
    The next question wil come...soon. I find myself in quite the financial quandary: my now ex-employer bounced a paycheck on me, which has totally fucked me. I've been spending the past week looking for new work plus dealing with trying to get my money while fending off creditors. Tomorrow I go see an attorney & the police. So.
     
    Posted by Idontlikeusernames (Member # 1925) on :
     
    Hmmm........ This certainly looks like an interesting little game..... unfortunately it seems I'm a bit late to actually join in plus I don't actually know all that much about the ships of the old series (I only seem to remember the constitution and miranda classes and the little tug tender from the 25th anniversary pc game).

    BTW, what kind of program do you use to make those nifty little maps Minutiae?
     
    Posted by MinutiaeMan (Member # 444) on :
     
    It's not too late to join, just start from the beginning and take your time catching up! [Smile]

    As for not knowing the designs, the Connie and the Miranda are the only canon designs, so we're all filling in with non-canon designs. So for the fleet that you request, you can pick any ships you want (within reason) as long as you can justify their use.

    As for the maps, I use Macromedia Fireworks MX.
     
    Posted by Neutrino 123 (Member # 1327) on :
     
    Isn't the Oberth a canon design too?
     
    Posted by MinutiaeMan (Member # 444) on :
     
    *smacks head* DOH!
     
    Posted by Idontlikeusernames (Member # 1925) on :
     
    Okay well here goes Questions 1&2 for the moment

    Q1a
    I would first like to note to Starfleet command and the Federation council my EXTREME concern over the status of Federation member world Espejo V, historical analysis has in this Admiral's humble opinion conclusively proven that "benevolent" fascism is a contradiction in terms as fascism is by its very nature not very much suited to bestow any kind of benevolence and tolerance upon its subjects.
    Included with this transmission is an excerpt from the works of the 19th century human philosopher John Stuart Mill which I believe states my case quite eloquently. http://etext.library.adelaide.edu.au/m/mill/john_stuart/m645r/chapter3.html
    More practically it is my opinion that the situation on Espejo V could turn very ugly very quickly I therefore request the presence of a sizable company of agents from Starfleet intelligence to keep me informed of the Espejo V situation at all times (around 1000 should do the trick).

    As for the Sobchak colony situation I would recommend a large scale agricultural colony be developed as far away from the Klingon population centers as possible, however since it seems we got here first I'll also place some minor environmentally sustainable mining operations near the richest ore deposits (in furtherance of the resource denial campaign).
    Pertaining to the logistics of the colony I assume the initial settlement will be handled by the bureau of Colonization (or whatever arm of the Federation government deals with it) and the supply lines will be handled by civilian operators. However since I do recognize that providing service to a newly developing colony in a disputed territory can be risky I'm willing (with commands permission of course) to award subsidized contracts to one or more operators to ensure a steady line of supply.

    Q1b
    As stated in my previous outline I would prefer to see shipping to and from the new colony handled by civilian operators however I a plan on requesting one Giant class cargo transport from transport command to be assigned to my fleet to provide emergency relief/ evacuation when necessary. I would also be wise to provide adequate defenses for the colony so I plan on requesting two Kestrel class starships to be assigned to colonial defense in the Sobchak system. The first task of these two ships will be to lay a minefield and some sensor warning buoys along the outskirts of the nebula to hopefully deter pirate raids from that direction.
    In addition I’m requesting a network of orbital satellites to be deployed near the colony consisting of a mixture of communications, defense and intelligence gathering satellites (I assume the Klingons will do the same).

    Starship Request & Deployment plans

    USS Lysander NCC-1593 Siegfried Class (sector flagship based at station K10)
    USS Skua NCC-1396 Kestrel Class (colonial defense in Sobchek system)
    USS Owl NCC-1435 Kestrel Class (colonial defense in Sobchek system)
    USS India NCC-1479 Lancaster Class (colonial defense in Sobchek system*)
    USS Hauler NCC-T338 Giant Class (colonial support in Sobchek system)
    USS Giotto NCC-647 Oberth Class (MKII 2241) (mapping and study of Ul’Chek nebula)
    USS Nernst NCC-893 Oberth Class (mapping and study of Ul’Chek nebula)
    USS Oasis NCC-DT29 Sahara Class (General Fleet Support)
    USS Deinonychus NCC-1421 Kestrel Class (General Fleet support, escort to DT29)

    Patrol Squadron 1
    USS Proteus NCC-1478 Valley Forge Class (regular patrol)
    USS Dazzler NCC-1567 Avenger Class (regular patrol)
    USS Reporter NCC-1787 Avenger Class (regular patrol)

    Patrol Squadron 2 (Intercept wing)
    USS Buccaneer NCC-1686 Predator Class (regular patrol)
    USS Spanker NCC-1842 Predator Class (regular patrol)

    To summarize my forces in this sector would comprise
    1x Siegfried Class Battle cruiser
    1x Valley Forge Class Medium Cruiser
    3x Kestrel Class Destroyer
    2x Avenger Class Destroyer
    2x Predator Class Destroyer
    2x Oberth Class Surveyor
    1x Sahara Class Tender
    1x Giant Class Transport

    *note to command: should be scrapped

    Q1c
    Hmmm……. Likely one of the local factions, most likely the pirates or the Penxi are up to no good in that nebula, I’ll order the Nernst to investigate further but to be cautious and retreat at the first sign of danger. I’ll also have Patrol squadron 2 divert to a staging point just outside the Nebula.

    Q1d
    If piracy really starts to escalate I might have to request an additional patrol squadron from Starfleet, however I believe the colony defenses I’ve requested should be sufficient to deter most pirate vessels from attempting to raid it.
    To be on the safe side though I’ll order patrol squadron 2 to begin laying the minefield and keep the kestrels closer to the colony.

    Additional Ship Requests:

    Patrol Squadron 3 (anti piracy)
    USS Biter NCC-D209 Predator Class (special patrol)
    USS Bruiser NCC-D217 Predator Class (special patrol)
     
    Posted by Shik (Member # 343) on :
     
    Hehhehheh....
     
    Posted by Idontlikeusernames (Member # 1925) on :
     
    Question 2

    Q2a
    I’ll critique Minutiae’s deployment plans.
    Overall they’re well thought out however I must question the wisdom of requisitioning a Belleau Wood class assault transport as a permanent addition to the fleet, since first of all it’s a slow and lightly armed vessel by contemporary standards so you’ll probably need to give it escorts to constantly keep it safe and I highly doubt it will be effective in repelling a Klingon incursion should it come to that since Klingons usually like to attack with overwhelming numbers anyway. I think you’d be better off overall if you had requested one or two other smaller vessels that would in my opinion be much more useful for intercepting pirates since piracy is arguably this sectors main problem (at least the main problem that we could actually handle with the meager force Starfleet’s assigned to this sector for anything else I’m guessing the doctrine of “defense in depth” still applies and we’ll be forced to make a fighting retreat in the face of overwhelming odds until Starfleet can send reinforcements.)
    BTW, aren’t TWO Miranda class Starships a bit much in the way of firepower to request for this out of the way sector (to my knowledge they’re actually more advanced than the Constitution and Pyotr Velikiy classes we weren’t even allowed to request).

    Q2b
    Sigh……..command never does give us lowly Admirals in out of the way sectors the resources necessary to actually provide an adequate defense do they?
    (I’ve always suspected this might be the reason why in so many episodes of the series the Enterprise is the only ship in the neighborhood except we don’t get an Enterprise to safe us do we?)

    Here goes revised fleet deployments are as follows:
    USS Lysander NCC-1593 Siegfried Class (sector flagship based at station K10)
    USS Skua NCC-1396 Kestrel Class (colonial defense in Sobchek system)
    USS Owl NCC-1435 Kestrel Class (colonial defense in Sobchek system)
    USS Hauler NCC-T338 Giant Class (colonial support in Sobchek system)
    USS India NCC-1479 Lancaster Class (colonial defense in Sobchek system*)
    USS Nernst NCC-893 Oberth Class (mapping and study of Ul’Chek nebula)

    Patrol Squadron 1
    USS Biter NCC-D209 Predator Class (regular patrol)
    USS Dazzler NCC-1567 Avenger Class (regular patrol)
    USS Reporter NCC-1787 Avenger Class (regular patrol)

    Patrol Squadron 2
    USS Buccaneer NCC-1686 Predator Class (regular patrol)
    USS Spanker NCC-1842 Predator Class (regular patrol)

    That effectively eliminates squadron 3, the Giotto, and my second cruiser
    (since I only requested 7 additional ship and the question states I lose half I’m interpreting this in my favor)
    * Notwithstanding my reduced fleet size, I still think command should recall this ship to be decommissioned.

    Q2c
    Do I look like an expert on colony settlement & planetary management and administration techniques all of a sudden?
    I’d better let the overpaid analysts at the Bureau of Colonization deal with this one (unless Starfleet actually wishes me to establish a fortified military outpost which I assume is not the purpose of this colony even though it is situated at a rather strategic point in this sector). As for the supply needs of the colony that’s something for transport command to handle (I’m assuming transport command handles all non civilian transport traffic in this sector), although like I said before it would be best if we could entice local civilian operators to take care of the supply line if necessary through subsidized contracts.
    Since we’re going to be sharing this planet with the Klingons I suppose a 500 man strong military police force equipped with a dozen or so heavy shuttlecraft might be appropriate to maintain order.

    Q2d
    Darn it! I had hoped that our colonists would get here first I should have known that the Klingons would use this colony as a pretext for establishing a military base.
    In light of these developments I’d like to make a request to double my requested security force and furthermore request a wing of three Balclutha class corvettes* (link: http://www.shipschematics.net/startrek/images/federation/corvette_balclutha.jpg) to counter those pesky B’rels to be based at Sobchek. (though somehow I doubt command will actually accede to this request). I would also request command to release the requested Valley forge class cruise to me as soon as possible.
    I’ll also inquire amongst the local governments if they might be interested in establishing a joint tactical training with academy me on Sobchek.
    If they agree to this it would serve two purposes, first it would provide me with additional security forces I could deploy in a pinch, secondly the security and law enforcement personnel on border worlds would likely benefit from the opportunity to observe Klingon soldiers in action (maybe I could even invite some Klingons to take participate since it’s likely their crews are going to visit our colony on “shore leave” anyways).

    I think these are reasonable specs for a movie era corvette (since shipschematics didn’t provide any)
    Crew Complement: 56 (12 officers +44 crew)
    Weapons: 4 phaser turrets in twin mounts, 1 photon torpedo tube with 18 photons
    Embarked Craft: 2 transatmospheric shuttlecraft
    Velocity (cochrane scale): Warp 5.5 standard, Warp 8.8 maximum

    Q2e
    I will do my best to assure the good general that the Nernst is merely a science vessel cataloguing gaseous anomalies I’m curious about what his ship was doing in the nebula though since to my knowledge K-23’s aren’t known for their stellar scientific capabilities.
    I’ll also point out that the extremely limited range of ships sensors in the nebula combined with it’s relative distance from the main Klingon assets in this sector (unless there are any in the nebula that we’re unaware of makes it an illogical location to conduct espionage missions against the Klingon Empire from.
    If I actually succeed in convincing the general I propose we hunt for the pirate’s base of operations together since pirate attacks are a menace to both our peoples.

    Q2f

    This is exactly the reason why I requested a third patrol squadron since I cannot possibly safeguard the entire sector with my current forces.
    I suppose if the Safko government is unwilling to have a ring of orbital defense satellites placed around their world the best thing I can do is place sensor buoys along the pirates most likely approach vectors to the Safko system and hope they warn one of my patrol squadrons the next time this happens. Though I’ll do my best to persuade the Safkans that some automatic, orbital defense satellites would be their best bet if they want to keep damage from pirate raids to a minimum.

    Q2g

    Since I’m making a late entry I’ll skip this one for now.
     
    Posted by MinutiaeMan (Member # 444) on :
     
    Interesting critique, IDLUN. You make a good point, except for one thing... the Belleau Wood isn't part of my fleet to be a patrol ship, it's there to be a mobile support platform (with its large hangar bays) to serve as colony support and light defense. There's no chance it'll stand up to the Klingons, of course, but that's not the point... it's the pirates that I'm concerned about.

    As for my fleet numbers... well, my Asmodeii were a last-minute addition to my fleet anyway, as I initially overlooked the severity of the pirate problem. And I made my requests with the goal of being reasonable for Command's benefit — i.e. I figured they'd give me what I asked for. I could I expect the stylus-pushers to nix my requisitions? (Me not being bureaucratic-minded, anyway.) I notice you fell into the same trap, too.
     
    Posted by Shik (Member # 343) on :
     
    That corvette is by far one of the ugliest things I have ever seen.
     
    Posted by Idontlikeusernames (Member # 1925) on :
     
    ^^
    That means it'll go just nicely with the uniforms of the period don't you agree Shik?
    And you never know, maybe it'll scare the Klingons.

    So do I get those reinforcements or not?
     
    Posted by HerbShrump (Member # 1230) on :
     
    We all requested reinforcements after the initial fleet arrival.

    You sir, on the other hand, have one of the largest (if not the largest) fleets in the sector the way it is.

    I do have a question about your fleet. What happened to your other Oberth? You have the Nernst and requested two others. Even with only getting half the ships, shouldn't you have another Oberth now or did you trade it for something else?
     
    Posted by Idontlikeusernames (Member # 1925) on :
     
    ^

    Ah.. No Herb, I only requested one not two additional Oberths.
    Maybe my fleet summary in Q1 was a bit convoluted (mainly because I tore up patrol squadron 73 and reassigned those ships to work with my new arrivals instead of keeping them together), these were the additional ships I requested in Q1, including those requested in Q1d:
    USS Lysander NCC-1593 Siegfried Class
    USS Proteus NCC-1478 Valley Forge Class
    USS Owl NCC-1435 Kestrel Class
    USS Deinonychus NCC-1421 Kestrel Class
    USS Biter NCC-D209 Predator Class
    USS Bruiser NCC-D217 Predator Class
    USS Giotto NCC-647 Oberth Class
    USS Oasis NCC-DT29 Sahara Class
    USS Hauler NCC-T338 Giant Class

    The ships I actually received in Q2 (after command put the axe to my requisitions) were therefore:
    USS Lysander NCC-1593 Siegfried Class
    USS Owl NCC-1435 Kestrel Class
    USS Biter NCC-D209 Predator Class
    USS Hauler NCC-T338 Giant Class
    (of which Hauler doesn’t count since it’s a transport)

    This means the ship requests axed by command consist of :
    USS Proteus NCC-1478 Valley Forge Class
    USS Deinonychus NCC-1421 Kestrel Class
    USS Bruiser NCC-D217 Predator Class
    USS Oasis NCC-DT29 Sahara Class and
    USS Giotto NCC-647 Oberth Class

    To answer your question completely, yes I dropped the second Oberth of my own volition (my original plan was to have two science vessels so that I could redeploy one of them should the need arise, however I later realized that with my reduced escort fleet size I wouldn’t have the resources to actually safeguard two science vessels so I gave up the Giotto). I did however include it in the count in Q2b adding to the confusion.
    I also somehow forgot to include the Sahara class in my initial fleet count in Q2b (probably since I didn’t consider it to be an escort vessel because I presumed it to be unarmed).
     
    Posted by MinutiaeMan (Member # 444) on :
     
    I've got a Sahara too... it's treated as a transport, because it's a support vessel.
     
    Posted by Idontlikeusernames (Member # 1925) on :
     
    Question 3

    Q3a
    quote:
    The Nernst finds in the nebula an unmistakably Penxi transport vessel transferring supply to a pirate raider. The Nernst remains undetected. How do you proceed?
    I'll order the Nernst to record it but stay hidden.
    In the meantime I'll divert patrol wing 2 from their mine laying duties to converge on the Nernst's position (they should be able to get there relatively quickly since they're already at the edge of the nebula). If my patrol wing gets there in time I want them to destroy the pirate ship but only disable the Penxi transport by targeting life her life support and impulse engines. Next I want them to collect (or vaporize) all the debris from the pirate vessel and alter the transport’s sensor logs to make it look like the transport was attacked by the pirate vessel (for good measure they should loot the Penxi ship to make it look convincing). With any luck this should do something to sour relations between the Penxi and some of the pirates.

    Q3b
    I’ll make it clear to the general that neither Starfleet nor the Federation is in the business of attacking civilians, even Klingon ones who’d no doubt like nothing better than to attack us and that if the Federation would really like to prevent or delay the Klingon settlement on Sochak’s planet we’d have far more efficient means of accomplishing that goal. I hope my two Kestrels,the India and patrol wing 2 (assuming they’ve finished their mission from Q3a) were in sensor range of the Klingon ships when they helped them fend off the attackers so it’ll lend some credence to my arguments.
    I will further offer to provide an escort to Sobchek’s planet for the two D18’s limping behind with my two Kestrels.

    Q3c
    Really?……. I didn’t expect this action from the Klingons since I didn’t initially choose a spot for the main colony that was close to any major ore deposits. Given the Klingons usual propensity for strip mining operations in their inexhaustible hunger for resources I can only conclude that the Klingons are doing this a, because they want to establish a large agricultural base (which in turn can only mean they want to establish a long term military base from which they can conduct operations against the Federation) and b, they’ve somehow obtained access to my recommendations to the Bureau of colonization and are doing this to spite me.
    Most likely the real reason is a combination of the two possibilities mentioned above, which means I’ll have to step up my counter intelligence efforts beginning with changing all security codes and clearances at Station K10.

    Q3d
    Oh?………… If DSU Qiao would care to enlighten me as to when exactly the Klingons decided to join the Federation and why I wasn’t informed of this I’d be glad to relocate the Klingon settlers for him (or at least integrate the two settlements), otherwise I remind him that I have no jurisdiction over Klingon military or civilian matters and if he really wanted that spot he should have gotten here sooner. For good measure I’ll show him the recordings of the answer governor Valg gave me when I asked him that question and tell him that for once I agree with the Klingons and that it’s just “though shit” for DSU Qiao.

    Q3e
    Oh joy, another of my fears is starting to become a reality. Aside from undoubtedly inflating the already inflated egos of the jackbooted military commanders on Espejo V this sector defense union is a bad idea because it would most likely spread the system defenses to thin leaving the vital planets in this sector wide open to pirate raids or Klingon invasion. Maybe the system defense forces could extent their patrol range to two or three light-years from their home systems but given their likely low maximum warp speeds and the low range of sensors I’d strongly recommend against anything more than that.

    Q3f
    Well this certainly looks suspicious, since when are Deputy Sector Undersecretary’s cleared to access Starfleet’s secured files on planetary & sector defenses?
    Also, totalitarian agriculture, that’s nothing short of barbaric. If DSU Qiao really intends to undertake these kinds of programs, ruining entire ecosystems just to spite the Klingons, I have half a mind to contact the Organians and tell them we’ve decided to relinquish the system to the Klingons myself. I’ll order my security forces to arrest DSU Qiao immediately on suspicions of Espionage and attempted genocide until we can sort out this mess.
    Even if this turns out just to be a Klingon setup in an attempt to frame mr. Qiao they might have unwittingly done me favor by allowing me to (temporarily) put this officious nit out of action. In the meantime I’ll see if there isn’t a young and bright Vulcan lieutenant amongst my staff I can promote to acting governor of Sobchak’s planet since this colony will most likely need a level headed pragmatist and not some antagonistic buffoon in command, if it’s to succeed.

    BTW, anyone know how to upload a file to this board so I can include the map with colony locations?

    [ October 03, 2006, 02:26 PM: Message edited by: Idontlikeusernames ]
     
    Posted by Idontlikeusernames (Member # 1925) on :
     
    quote:
    Originally posted by MinutiaeMan:
    I've got a Sahara too... it's treated as a transport, because it's a support vessel.

    In that case I'll amend my fleet deployment information with the following:

    USS Oasis NCC-DT29 Sahara Class (general fleet support).
     
    Posted by Neutrino 123 (Member # 1327) on :
     
    Whoa there; you can't just arrest people for looking at files they have security clearance to access. All we know is that he was looking at these files. We have no clue if has done anything with them or even plans to.
     
    Posted by Shik (Member # 343) on :
     
    "Also, totalitarian agriculture, that’s nothing short of barbaric."

    And yet it's been done every day on this planet for the past 10 millennia.

    Barring more bullshit with the fuckery that is my former employers & their owing of money to me (we're up to $623.12 now!) Q4 should be up by midnight Monday. That's Sunday going into Monday, that is.
     
    Posted by Idontlikeusernames (Member # 1925) on :
     
    quote:
    Whoa there; you can't just arrest people for looking at files they have security clearance to access. All we know is that he was looking at these files. We have no clue if has done anything with them or even plans to.
    I don't know are DSU's being civilian officials & all supposed to have access to Starfleet files on planetary defenses? (I'd like a ruling on this Shik). If so I may have made a mistake in arresting him, if not I can at least nab him for hacking a computer terminal and since the file he's accessed is vital to sector security I can then upgrade the charges to espionage effectively getting him out of the way, at least for now.

    quote:
    And yet it's been done every day on this planet for the past 10 millennia.
    I can at least hope the Federation has largely moved beyond the need to devastate entire ecosystems for agricultural purposes, can't I?
    Besides in it's most radical form, which is what I fear that buffoon Qiao was planning, It would mean exterminating all native plant and wildlife and replacing them with Federation imports, preferably ones that are poisonous to the Klingons.
     
    Posted by Shik (Member # 343) on :
     
    Yesh, that's my belief in the Federation as well. THAT IS CORRECT! I HAVE USED THIS GAME AS A TOOL TO PROMOTE MY OWN AGENDA!

    The ruling has already been made. Research, people!
     
    Posted by Idontlikeusernames (Member # 1925) on :
     
    Well in that case I'll order DSU Qiao be released the next morning (a night in the brig might actually do the little twit some good). I'll also apologize for the rash actions of my (junior) security officers but remind him that there's a cold war with the Klingons going on and being this close to the border tends to put the security people on edge and that this whole, regrettable incident might have been avoided if only DSU Qiao had deigned to notify me, or one of my senior staff members, in advance.
    I'll also take this opportunity to inform him that I'm sending a Vulcan officer with him as a "security advisor" who'll command the local military police forces (and keep me secretly informed of all DSU Qiao's doings).

    Finally I'll inquire with the Bureau of Colonization and the Sector Undersecretary what their plans for the colony where with regards to agriculture. If either of their plans mentions "totalitarian agriculture" I'm submitting a formal protest to Starfleet Command, the Secretary of Agriculture (I'm assuming the executive branch has one) and the Federation council.
    Otherwise it just means I'll have to keep an extra close eye on DSU Qiao and his staff.
     
    Posted by Shik (Member # 343) on :
     
    OK, so.....time compression for events? SURE, why not!

    QUESTION FOUR (six parts)


  • Espejo V, Repka II, & Ogul VI have agreed to form what they call the Sector Guard; Yvel IV has opted out of the pact. The leaders inform you that they will immediately begin patrolling the borders by the Penxi & the nebula with local cutters & "heavy" local ships (equivalent to escorts or destroyers). How does this affect your plans for exploration & defense (if any)? Do you sanction them & their actions? Justify your reasons & account for this new paramilitary element.

  • The colony force is about to depart K-10 & the final meetings are being held. One of the remaining tasks is to plan the route that the convoy will take. DSU Qiao wants to get to Sobchak's Planet as quickly as possible to catch up on any gains the Klingons might have gotten already; his direct route would take the convoy straight through the Ul'Chek Nebula. The captains of the escorts & transports would prefer to avoid the nebula, citing the astrogational hazards it poses; they wish to plot a route that avoids the nebula entirely but will add 3 days to the journey & will skirt the parts of Federation space that border the Penxi Optimus. It's up to you to break the deadlock. Make your decision on the route, explaining your choice. Weigh your options & plan for contingencies.

  • It has been 1 week since Nernst has checked in with K-10. No word has been received, but no wreckage has been found either. Their last update reported nothing that implied a hazardous situation. Address.

  • The colony convoy is attacked by raiders out of nowhere. Two transports are quickly destroyed before the escorts can engage the enemy; did they carry food, equipment, or personnel? The battle is lengthy & running, & any local ships you have nearby respond. In the aftermath, you have taken heavy losses. If you have a small escort force, 3 or 4 ships have been lost (tiny loses 3, small/medium loses 4, but leave at LEAST one vessel to survive); if you have a large force, you lose 1 or 2 ships (large/medium loses 2, large loses 1). If any local ships respond, you lose 1 of those.

  • The Gor-Bahtki are a lesser race whose planet is in one of the lesser unnamed star systems on the map; they are not a Federation member but they have enjoyed normal relations with the UFP in the past. An update from Starfleet notes that they have contacted the Penxi about trade ties. React accordingly, taking into account current & existing sector issues as well as future plans.

  • The convoy makes finally starfall at Sobchak's Planet. The unloading of the transports proceed apace & the convoy commander makes a report to you about the events. He notes that Qiao is convinced the Klingons are behind the attack because the pirate ships were cloaked & sensors recorded a neutron surge when they decloaked indicative of Klingon cloaking technology. Qiao infers from this that the Klingons contracted with a third party to ambush the convoy & thus have the planet forfeited to them. He also demands that you--as secotr commander--"personally take steps" to avenge the attack & help the Federation (& him) save face.
     
    Posted by MinutiaeMan (Member # 444) on :
     
    == Part A ==

    I'm most surprised that Safko has opted out of this pact... they're the closest to the Penxi and are the most likely to need extra defenses. Regardless, I will only be ignoring this new Sector Guard. My existing patrol patterns are sufficient for defensive purposes, and I will not be willing to let outsiders set Starfleet defensive policies and strategies. They will learn the error of their ways, eventually, but it seems that they're not going to listen to my recommendations. So if they choose to squander their defenses, that's their prerogative.

    == Part B ==

    Mr. Qiao's requests are overruled, the convoy will take the long way around. The only race involved with Sobchak's Planet was seeing who gets there to settle first. That race is already over, it's not like the Organians are going to be calling "Pencils down!" next week. Three days will not make the slightest difference.

    The escorts will be India and the Avenger destroyer squadron, the Orion (TMP destroyer), and Michtlantecuhtli (corvette). I will also order the Skua and Bali Raj to extend their patrol routes near Sobchak's toward the convoy, and go to standing Yellow Alert in case they're needed to respond to an emergency.

    == Part C ==

    This only justifies my decision to route the convoy around the nebula. (I'm getting a flashback to that scene in DS9's "Soldiers of the Empire," with the helm officer sarcastically acknowledging Martok's command to go around the nebula. We're not Klingons!)

    == Part D ==

    Surprise, surprise. I'm going to consider my escorts to be a "large" force, compared to the other responses. However, Shik's directions don't make it clear if the ships refer to the transports, escorts, or both. I'm going to assume the two lost transports are included in the losses. This means that I've lost India (incredibly old, slow, and unable to respond to the quick raiders), and the Bali Raj (corvette overwhelmed by heavy fire). The transports were carrying equipment, mainly the materials for setting up the habitats and agriculture stations. Therefore, I'm going to recommend that Mr. Qiao name the settlement New Caprica City, since the colonists are going to be stuck in tents for a few weeks. [Wink]

    == Part E ==

    No response, other than to have my intelligence officer pay a bit more attention to that system, in case the Penxi double-cross them. We'll stand by to play the role of the knight in shining armor if necessary.

    == Part F ==

    I give Qiao the same response as in the last question: fuck off. I will certainly have to start taking some more aggressive positions against the Penxi, pending an official response from their government. But there will be no retaliation of any form, for the moment.

    Going forward, I'm going to have to consider planning some sort of offensive campaign, either diplomatic or military, against the Penxi. Let's see how they react, though.
     
    Posted by Idontlikeusernames (Member # 1925) on :
     
    Question 4

    Q4a)
    Isn't this lovely, the jackbooted military commanders of Espejo have ignored my recommendations once again. At least Yvel had the common sense to opt out (ironically maybe it’s because they're the furthest away from any of the sectors major threats). If they really want to endanger their ships, soldiers and planets in this way that's their decision, however I feel it my duty to inform the Espejans that with my limited resources in this sector I most likely cannot afford to come to the rescue. If their ships get themselves into any situation they cannot handle they're on their own.

    Q4b)
    We'll go around the nebula, since the race to colonize Sobchak's planet is already lost I cannot possibly see any reason why such an insignificant delay would be of any consequence to our colonization efforts. Tactically I'd rather fight the Penxi out in the open then who knows what in that Nebula (not to mention the other hazards a nebula might pose to relatively slow, lightly shielded and unarmed transport vessels).
    I'll send patrol squadron 1 along to escort the convoy.

    Q4c)
    That's odd, once squadron 1 has finished escorting the convoy they're to enter the nebula and perform a search for the Nernst.

    Q4d)
    I'd categorize my escort wing as medium, which means I've lost USS Dazzler & USS Biter, now I'll really need those reinforcements from Starfleet.
    One transport was carrying about 1000 colonists and their possessions (though unfortunately DSU Qiao was not on board that particular transport), the other was the carrying the colony's command and detention centers. Though colony construction can proceed more or less as scheduled we are now at a significant numerical disadvantage compared to the Klingons and DSU Qiao will have to conduct his operations and communications from one of the police's heavy shuttlecraft and sleep in a tent until I can send the Hauler with additional supplies, escorted by squadron 2 in about 15 days. Fortunately the transport carrying the communications satellite survived so the shuttle's short range transceiver in combination with the satellite should be enough to allow relatively normal communications with the rest of the sector. Also we may temporarily have to reintroduce the stockade for offenders since we’ve got nowhere to incarcerate them.
    In the meantime I’ll dispatch the Lysander to search for the Nernst.

    Q4e)
    There isn't much I can do about this for now except increase my intelligence gathering efforts.
    A situation like this one is one of the reasons why I initially requested two Oberths, but now even the one I've got seems to be missing.

    Q4f)
    I will not launch any retaliatory strikes against either the Klingons or the Penxi without proof their governments were involved, besides I don't have the resources for it either.
    I will see if I can't increase my intelligence gathering efforts on the Penxi and their possible connections with the Klingons, maybe one of their "traders" could be "persuaded" to work for us given the right encouragement. I'll await the formal response from both their governments before I draw any final conclusions
     
    Posted by Shik (Member # 343) on :
     
    Answers:

  • Safko was never invited to join due to their beliefs. They're basically "Space Quakers," remember?

  • The ship losses are 2 transports carrying whichever PLUS the losses from the escorts. Edit accordingly if necessary. (I had a feeling people would be blowing up India. Aren't I nice for giving you that opportunity?
     
    Posted by MinutiaeMan (Member # 444) on :
     
    == Part C, ctd ==
    Whoops, I forgot to comment on my actions! Two destroyers will be sent to sweep the nebula after the colony transports reach their destination. I may toss in the Skua if needed, as well.

    Re: the India, whaddaya expect when a slow, lumbering battlewagon is assigned to escort duty against heavily-armed pirates? And if they did this poorly against Penxi, imagine what would happen in a general invasion by the Klingons!

    I’ll echo IDLUN on this, Starfleet had better be sending me reinforcements after this debacle!

    I do have one addendum to part F, that just occurred to me. I’m going to see if I can use the trade agreement with these folks to slip in some intelligence agents to gather data on Penxi internal affairs, or at the very least some news about their pirate operations.
     
    Posted by MinutiaeMan (Member # 444) on :
     
    Also, I would've sent India on the escort mission regardless. Even if I didn't know that I'd be losing ships, my choices would've remained the same. Not that I was planning on it getting blown up, but because it was the best heavy weapons platform available save the Saratoga. Also, I didn't have many ships to spare or alternatives to send instead.

    Besides, I think that India was the best choice to be the assigned heavy cruiser anyway. Being older and therefore slower, it was ideally suited for escort duty since it wouldn't need to make extreme maneuvers. It was able to sit close to the transports and use its heavy phasers to fire in all directions. Under normal circumstances, that would've been perfectly sufficient... I just wasn't expecting the extremely heavy firepower that the pirates managed to bring!

    Finally, the only alternative for a cruiser-type ship was the Saratoga, and I needed that to maintain a credible patrol on the northern flank, in case the Klingons decided to make some trouble in the next few weeks. And although the Saratoga would've been much more likely to survive the pirate attack (with state-of-the-art shields and weapons, and good maneuverability to match), that would've left the border dangerously open, with only an ancient and unresponsive cruiser and a single modern destroyer.

    It boils down to this: I (or rather, my character) "gambled" that India would be up to repelling the pirates along with the other escorts. It wasn't.
     
    Posted by HerbShrump (Member # 1230) on :
     
    Part 1:
    Starfleet's official stance in this sector won't change just because some locals have decided to form a vigilante group. We will continue to patrol along the designated routes. We have plenty of ships in the region that are quite capable of responding to any threat. Thanks anyway for your help.

    Discretely I'll order the patrol ships to keep an eye on these Mnutemen. Should any confrontation happen between these civilians and the raiders, Penxi or Klingons, I want a Starfleet presence there as soon as possible.

    Unofficially I'll continue to push for implanting Starfleet agents in among the Minutemen. We need to keep an eye on this situation and see that it doesn't grow to the point of setting off anything that can blow up in everyone's face.

    Part 2:
    Since the colony force arrives by the end of this "turn," isn't this part irrelevant?

    At any rate, the colony force will circumnavigate the nebula and take the extra 3 days. As has already been pointed out, the Klingons have already arrived and established their base. The race is over. There is no need to get there any faster.

    If DSU Qiao is so adamant on arriving as soon as possible, I'll gladly stick him on a destroyer and rush him to Sobchak's Planet > [Wink] He can camp there for three days until our ships arrive. Who knows, maybe he'll get a chance to meet the neighbors.

    Part 3:
    Odd. I'll order the ships patrolling along the Ul'Chek Nebula (Dazzler, Bucanneer, Kite, Roc) to start looking for any sign of the Nernst. These ships are not to stray too far from their designated patrol route, but are encouraged to keep an eye out, dip into the nebula for quick looks. If the Nernst isn't heard from in another 2 weeks, I'll pull the Alacrity off her patrol route for a thorough search.

    Part 4:
    From a pragmatic standpoint, the transports destoryed were carrying colonists and food supplies. This keeps the status quo at a balance. The citizens killed would have eaten the food lost had everyone made it to the colony. New colonists can be found, foodstuffs can be grown or rationed, but the equipment may be in short supply if any of that was lost.

    Transports lost in action:
    USS Meth-Maren, USS Kuiper

    Escorts lost in action:
    Q-ships USS Sullust & USS Ruff, Kestrel Class USS Skua, and the Ptolemy Class tug USS Al Rashid and her battlepod.

    The India is heavily damaged, but survives the encounter.

    Due to these losses, I resubmitt my request to Starfleet for additional ships.

    Four Valley Forge Class Cruisers
    Four Siegfried Class Dreadnauts
    Six Avenger Class Destroyers
    Four Miranda Class Cruisers
    Four Oberth Class Scouts
    Four Ptolemy Class Tugs

    Part 5:
    Hey, this is great. Go ahead and trade all you want. Starfleet and Federation citizens will gladly help in any way. In fact, here are some "advisors" we'd like you to accept as part of your trading company. No, really, we insist you take thse fine people on. They will be invaluable in conducting trade with the Penxi, as well as keeping in contact with the Federation. (They will also be invaluable to Stafleet in keeping an eye on this new development).

    Part 6:
    I agre with DSO Qiao that something is amiss and either the Klingons or Penxi are behind the attack, especially with the raiders coming from nowehere. Sadly, the cloaking technology alone isn't proof enough of Klingon involvment. Orion Pirates are known to have cloaking devices, for example, and there is a flurishing black market of Klingon equipment. As sector commander I am "personally taking steps" to deal with this situation. Due to security restrains, I'm not at liberty to discuss what those steps are. Rest assured though, that with Starfleet patrols, the local Minutemen patrols and other means I'm not at liberty to say, the situation is quite contained.
     
    Posted by MinutiaeMan (Member # 444) on :
     
    Just because I've got nothing to do for a few minutes, I'm going to take after Herb and fire off a plea for more ships from Command. It'll probably get ignored, but you never know.

    1 Miranda- or Pyotr Velikiy-class heavy cruiser (to replace India; failing that, at least a Siegfried)
    1 or 2 Abbe-class torpedo cruisers (to supplement my heavy fighting power; if the pirates are making short work of my ships, imagine what the Klingons would do!)
    4 Polaris-class destroyers
    6 Asmodeus-class corvettes
     
    Posted by Idontlikeusernames (Member # 1925) on :
     
    Well if the others are submitting formal request for reinforcements I'll make mine as well:

    A second Siegfried Class Heavy Cruiser
    1 Oberth Class Surveyor
    4 Avenger Class Destroyers
    6 Renner Class Corvettes http://www.shipschematics.net/startrek/images/federation/corvette_renner.jpg

    BTW, That's a lot of heavy firepower you're requesting for this sector, Herb (or are you actually requesting double the amount of ships you think you'll need because of the way command handled our previous requests?).
     
    Posted by HerbShrump (Member # 1230) on :
     
    Aye. An engineer who is an acquaintence of mine always multiplies his repair/requisition efforts by 3.

    I figure I'll ask for more than I want in expectation of the list being cut back.
     
    Posted by Neutrino 123 (Member # 1327) on :
     
    Question 4:

    a. Well, if Repka is part of a power-projecting defense organization (which is odd since they are so small), I must assume they have at least decent planetary defenses, so I don’t really need that Avenger guarding them, do I? Still, this is a useless development. These ships are probably no more capable then the pirate ships, so even if they do manage to detect something passing through the big border, the pirate will probably detect them too, and will just temporarily go somewhere else, re-entering the border shortly. Thus, these border patrols are almost completely useless, and they leave important planets with fewer defenses. Starfleet should encourage that local planets to temporarily put their forces under our control until the pirate menace has been extinguished.

    b. We will definitely not go through the nebula. Besides simple navigational hazards, there is a much greater chance of pirate ambush in the nebula, and the pirates have some significant forces, as their skirmish with the Klingons proved. We will go around the nebula, and furthermore, the Nernst and other ships in the nebula will deploy to the side near which the convoy is passing, to provide early warning if the convoy is in danger, and to assist if necessary.

    c. The Nernst isn’t reporting in? This is a disaster, since it means the Spanker is missing too. The Buccaneer is immediately ordered to investigate, starting with their last known location and proceeding along the designated patrol route, being very, very careful.

    d. Darn, my colony ship route and organization must not have been followed if going through the nebula would be faster...why must everything bad always happen to me? Fortunately, the Reporter, no longer needed to defend Repka, could tag along with the convoy on the way to its new assignment (hunting pirates in the nebula). However, this is when disaster strikes.
    Since we would have heard if the Klingons choose not to respond, I must assume the battle takes place fairly far from Sobchak’s planet, as the convoy would be coming from the upper area. Thus, the Reporter, Skua, and Condor bore the brunt of the fighting, with the Buccaneer coming to assistance later on.
    Unfortunately two of the colony transports (each self-contained, but with some unique specialty equipment) with 2,500 people were destroyed, taking with them the housing and equipment for those people. The colony’s long-range communications equipment was also destroyed. Fortunately, other two ships remained intact, allowing the remaining 2,500 people to set up a self-sufficient colony. Too bad the ship with the colony command staff wasn’t one of the destroyed ones...
    Many pirate ships were annihilated, but their cloaking technology gave them too large an advantage. The Skua was completely destroyed, while the responding Buccaneer was rendered unsalvageable. The Condor was so heavily damaged that it was forced to break off the battle, and will need to spend a very long time at an appropriate repair facility. Only the Reporter, the most capable of the escorts, managed to avoid heavy damage, the crew being able to handle the necessary minor repairs.

    e. This really isn’t any of Starfleet’s business. I suppose, however, that they should be informed of the evidence connecting the Penxi to various pirate attacks, and be advised to move their transports in escorted convoys. Otherwise, the Federation might be interested in trading with them as well, depending on the specifics.

    f. The Klingons should be contacted regarding the cloaking devices. There are several possibilities of how Klingon cloaking devices could have fallen into Klingon hands: unofficially government sanctioned transfer, perhaps unsanctioned transfer by parties wanting to provoke the Federation (the current Klingon sector commander maybe?), normal thieving perhaps using transporters in the original attack on the transports (they are forming a military abse, so they may have been carrying replacement cloaking devices). Of course, there is no guarantee that the technology is Klingon, but all avenues in diplomacy and intelligence need to be pursued.

    Also disturbing is the power of the pirates in this sector. It is unlikely they managed to get their abilities themselves, so this probably confirms that some source, most probably the Penxi, is helping them. We need more specific information though. Perhaps some pirates were capture in the battle, and can be interrogated to yield useful data, or at least the construction of the wreckage analyzed.

    Current situation: there are only three ships at decent readiness in the sector: the Avenger class ships Dazzler and Reporter, and the Lancaster class ship India. We need the India to help deal with the new colony, especially since the colony now has no long-range communications equipment. The transport ships will wait to resume their previously specified ‘safe’ route (though nothing is really safe with cloaked pirates) as soon as the Dazzler arrives to escort them (local forces will be requested to guard Safko, and surely they would do this considering the current situation). The Reporter will immediately leave to investigate the disappearance of the Nernst and Spanker.

    The Federation has greatly suffered from pirate attacks, so it is time to end them once and for all. It is recommended to Starfleet Command that a massive force (sufficient to crush the Penxi if necessary) be dispatched to this sector, with the Klingons informed of this to moderate detail, and invited to join in the buildup. The purpose of this is to pressure the Penxi to halt all pirate activities, and to destroy all the pirates, as well as invade the Penxi if they can be definitely linked to the pirates and refuse to do anything about it.

    Of course, Starfleet Command hates me, [Big Grin] so they probably won’t agree to my plan. At least send a couple of vessels to take up escort duty (preferably Predators, but Kestrals will suffice) of the remaining transports, and that Valley Forge class flagship...
     
    Posted by Neutrino 123 (Member # 1327) on :
     
    I forgot to add: though I refer to the attackers as ‘pirates’, I doubt they are actually pirates. Pirates would attack lightly defended installations in search of plunder, and of course, they would not destroy civilian transports before plundering them (if at all). These “pirates” clearly have a political objective. Since they are apparently all working together, this is further evidence that they are being controlled by the Penxi. The probable objective of the Penxi is to drive back the encroaching Federation and Klingon influence in this sector.
     
    Posted by MinutiaeMan (Member # 444) on :
     
    Automated Receptionist: "Thank you for calling Starfleet Command. I'm sorry, but all of our admirals are busy assisting other customers at the moment. Your call is important to us. Please continue to hold on this subspace channel, and your concerns will be addressed in the order your call was received."
     
    Posted by Shik (Member # 343) on :
     
    [shitty Scotty] AYE, I'm workin' on it..! [/shitty Scotty]
     
    Posted by Shik (Member # 343) on :
     
    QUESTION FIVE (five parts)


  • USS Neulovimy, a Chandley-class ship has arrived at K-10 for repairs to damage sustained while fighting raiders near Simik. Neulovimy's captain reports to you that the force numbered 12 ships comprised of a kludge of designs & technologies; the major recognizable elements were Federation, Klingon, Romulan, & Orion. In his after-action report, he also notes that while the active long-range array was damaged, passive LR sensors were able to track the force to a point approximately 1.6 LY within Penxi space. Analyze and/or utilize this information.

  • A Sector Guard vessel finds debris floating 0.7 LY outside the Ul'Chek Nebula near the Klingon border. The largest pieces have been salvaged & brought to K-10. The analysis yields the following information: the pieces do have markings & composition consistent with that of the severely-overdue Nernst, that they have been explosively detached & released from the main body, & that residual particle decay indicates that it was done so by ship-mounted weaponry of Klingon design.

  • Starfleet Command has heard your pleas for more forces. Fleet Admiral Prrenth tells you, "We're doing our best to try & gather a detachment to send your way, but it's difficult to pull so many ships off station & not have gaps in our patrols & defenses." The Quadrant Commander also offers this piece of advice: "Just hold the line the best you can however you can & we'll get something to you as soon as we possibly can without compromising the border defense plan."

  • A Zibalian merchant coming across the border from Voltok III makes mention in casual conversation of sighting a major Klingon force. When interrogated by your security & intel staff, she says that she didn't get a good read on them because of the poor standards of her sensors. However, what she did note was that before they cloaked, the force was on a general heading toward the Ul'Chek Nebula. She offers her sensor logs to the intel staff & analysis yields no concret infomration; the force appeared to be comprised of K'tingas, Klolodes, B'rels, K'teremnys, D-10s, & L-9s.

  • Write a question that deals with a situation on Sobchak's Planet. It must deal ONLY with an event on the planet & have NO ship-based elements at all.
     
    Posted by MinutiaeMan (Member # 444) on :
     
    == Part A ==

    This is where I send a strong reconnaissance-in-force to pursue the raider fleet and finally get some answers. We finally have solid proof that the raiders are, at the very least, using Penxi territory as a launching point for their attacks. I will send Destroyer Squadrons A and C (Avengers and Polarises, respectively) to make a sweep of the border, getting as close as possible with active sensors going for all their worth.

    I will make an immediate demand to the Penxi that they provide all information available concerning raider movements, and to immediately evict said groups from Penxi space. Effectively, the demand will be "clean up your mess or we'll clean it up for you," although I won't actually say that part yet, because I don't have sufficient forces to back up any such threat.

    However, I now have the first solid political grasp on the situation. With solid evidence of where they're coming from, I can adequately pressure the Penxi to stop looking the other way for the raiders. I won't accuse them of sponsoring state piracy (yet), nor will I order any border violations. To keep the moral high ground, we have to give the Penxi time to deal with the situation before we do anything more.

    Assuming they don't do anything, though, I will inform them that if they refuse to deal with the pirate problem, then we will demand the right to pursue the raiders inside Penxi territory. If that's not granted, then that would be considered an act of open support of and affiliation with the raiders, and an act of aggression against the Federation. That would not make things pleasant for them.

    == Part B ==

    At this stage, I'm not going to accuse the Klingons of destroying the Nernst. The raiders are known to be using technologies of Klingon design; and if there's one thing Klingons are good at building, it's weapons. I'd consider it far more likely, despite General Plis'Qen's accusations of the converse, that the Nernst was attacked by raiders.

    I'm assuming that the debris field was large enough to indicate that the ship was destroyed? Or is there a possibility that the main body of the ship is intact and still active? (Translation: is this a "Dominion War battlefield" debris field, or a pansy "NX-01 in 'Shuttlepod One'" debris field?)

    == Part C ==

    My response: "With all due respect, sir, you can't be serious. We've already got major gaps in our patrols and defenses. We have five major Federation member worlds and a strategic new colony that's critical to the Federation's future status in this sector. I barely have sufficient coverage to defend two locations against one threat force; we've got two practically on our back doorstep. And one of those is probably engaged in undeclared warfare against the Federation at this very minute. I don't care if those ships are sent one at a time, we need them immediately in order to ensure the safety of our citizens!"

    There's not much I can do. I've already got my fleet on roaming border patrol, where they can act as rapid reaction squadrons to any immediate emergencies. I'm going to once again send a plea to the "Sector Guard" members that they desperately need to pull back their forces to provide adequate defense for their homeworlds, before it's too late.

    == Part D ==

    At this stage, all I can do is re-deploy my forces to keep more of an eye on the Klingon border. My Polaris squadron will cut short its reconnaissance patrol and reverse course, sweeping back along the Penxi border to take up station between K-10 and the nebula.

    My assumption, however, is that the Klingons are about to make a move in reaction to the raider attacks. Hopefully General Plis'Qen has received some intelligence proving the Penxi role in this, and he's about to drop the hammer on them (and not me). Towards that end, I will send — through secure channels — an inquiry to the good General, simply stating that we have received second-hand reports that there is a large force of ships headed towards the Nebula. I'd ask for some more detail in order to avoid an unneeded skirmish. I'd also point out that we could possibly pool resources (whether they be political or tactical) to move against the Penxi, if need be. We've both been attacked en route to Sobchak's Planet, after all, so it seems we're doing something the Penxi don't like there.

    == Part E ==

    A civilian survey party, exploring the territory around the colony on foot, encounters a small Klingon scouting party, also on foot. A few shots are exchanged between the two sides, but in the dense, forested foliage, it doesn't seem as if anyone hit anything (on either side). Depending on your colony's location and distance from the Klingon settlement, this could either be an inevitable occurrence from proximity or a sinister indication of greater movements by the Klingons. React accordingly. (Oh, and regardless, Mr. Qiao is screaming bloody murder again and demanding the formation of an anti-Klingon posse with a "shoot first, ask questions never" policy. Does this actually seem like a good idea?)
     
    Posted by Shik (Member # 343) on :
     
    It's a "Hey, we found some fragments of shit" field.
     
    Posted by Neutrino 123 (Member # 1327) on :
     
    Did any of the fragments match the Spanker?
     
    Posted by Shik (Member # 343) on :
     
    What did i say?
     
    Posted by HerbShrump (Member # 1230) on :
     
    PART 1
    First off, I’ll order the Neulovimy receive top priority in her repairs. Second, I’ll pull strings to get the ship reassigned to my sector. Is there anyone that owes me a favor? Is there anyone I can repay later? As an admiral in charge of an entire sector, I ought to have enough clout to get this little thing done.

    I’ll take this information and use it in various ways. It will definitely be included in my report to Starfleet outlined below.

    If I have any operatives in place among the traders dealing with the Penxi, I’ll direct them to inquire about this region of space. It’s time to find out all I can about the Raider nesst. What ship strength do they have? How well defended is the area?

    I’ll readjust the patrol routes of the ships already in system. The Alacrity will spearhead a patrol group along with the Skua and Pelecyornis that will keep a close eye on this area of space. Dazzler, Buccaneer, Kite and Roc will stay on alert and anticipate coming to assist this patrol group at any time.

    An immediate meeting will be requested with the Penxi where the evidence will be presented. We’ll let the Penxi know in no uncertain terms that the gloves are coming off. If they are behind the attacks, they need to stop. If they know anything about the Raiders, now is the time to come clean. Either take care of the problem internally, assist Starfleet in taking care of the problem or step out of the way.

    PART 2
    It appears the Nernst has met with foul play, either at Klingon hands or the Raiders. This information will likewise be filed away for use below. In the meantime, the Kite and Roc will begin a detailed sweep of an area up to 5ly in radius from the location of the wreckage.

    In light of the aid the new Sector Guard provided, and as a show of goodwill, Starfleet will begin coordinating patrol routes and sharing limited information with these Minutemen.

    PART 3
    Just hold the line? JUST HOLD THE LINE? What does Command think we’re doing?

    Look. This is a rapidly deteriorating situation here. The sector is being overran with two, possibly three agencies hostile to the Federation; The Penxi, who don’t like us; the Raiders, who appear to outgun us; and the Klingons, who are pumping heavy battlewagons into the region. We’ve lost all of the Q-ship escorts for our freighters, lost the heaviest ship in the sector, lost our science vessel and another frigate has been severely damaged. The Raiders have enough firepower to overwhelm a Lancaster Class ship (not that it would take much, my grandmother could overwhelm a Lancaster and she’s dead), the Klingons are sending in K’tingas and D-10s and the most powerful ship I have left is 1 Miranda class.

    PART 4
    We thank the Zibalian captain and repay her by upgrading her sensors to Starfleet standards. Maybe not the best we have, but definitely better than she has now. Of course, this upgrade comes with a price. We want to continue the free trade of knowledge and information she can provide us from the other side. We’ll compensate her further as the situation warrants.

    I’ll then contact General Plis’Qen and throw a fit worthy of any warrior worthy of Sto’Vo Kor. Klingons respect strength and I intend to operate from a position of strength. I’ll immediately accuse the Klingons of destroying the Nernst in an unprovoked attack, espionage in stealing classified information about our plans for Sobchak’s Planet and then setting up their colony where we were going to establish ours, and violating the Organian Peace Treaty by bringing in an invasion fleet.

    After blustering and making it clear Starfleet won’t stand for such aggression, I’ll provide the Klingons a way out and agree that these pirate raiders are behind the Nernst attack and that they are beefing up defenses to deal with this threat. While withholding our information about the possible location of the Raiders, I’ll offer that we and the Klingons team-up to deal with this threat, and truly work in harmony with the principles behind the Organian Peace Treaty.

    PART 5
    The colony on Sobchak’s planet is in the midst of a severe crisis. Food supplies are drastically limited and certain key technological components/tools were lost all due to the attack by the Raiders before arriving at Sobchak’s planet. To complicate the matter further, the colony is being overran by large burrowing reptillian creatures (think of a monitor lizard the size of a baby elephant). These creatures have a near pack-like or herd mentality. They weren’t believed to be any danger to the colony and it’s suspected that something has changed to cause these animals to periodically go on violent destructive campaigns through the settlement. No deaths have been reported by several colonists have been injured. Mr. Qiao is demading the immediate eradication of the species, and so are a number of the colonists. Others are fighting this sentiment based on moral, ethical grounds and the Prime Directive. How can the colony be adequately protected without eliminating the animals and still placating Mr. Qiao?
     
    Posted by MinutiaeMan (Member # 444) on :
     
    To paraphrase a famous Earth soldier, "I couldn't hold the line if it had two EZ-grip ergonomic handles at waist level!"
     
    Posted by Shik (Member # 343) on :
     
    HEY, FUCKWITS.


    Still playing? Good. Then you have one week from today to get cracking. Otherwise, I go ahead without you.
     
    Posted by Neutrino 123 (Member # 1327) on :
     
    I’ve been too busy recently, but hopefully will have a bit more time now. At any rate, I wonder why we have a whole week... [Wink]

    Question 5

    1. This information is nothing new, but now there is hard evidence that Penxi space is being used as a base for the pirates. Pressure should be immediately stepped up on the Pnexi. They will be given a certain reasonable amount of time to take major measures to clear their space of pirates before we make this information public and take more drastic action. Meanwhile, the intelligence will be passed over to the Klingons, who would be encouraged to join with the Federation in presenting the Penxi with this ultimatum (the information will also perhaps serve to reduce Klingon Federation tensions now that we know the pirates are using everyone’s technology). It is not expected that the Penxi will accept, but it may be that only certain elements in their government are supporting the pirates, in which case there is a chance that friendly diplomacy and pressure could bring results.

    2. “Admirals Log Stardate, damn where did I put that calendar: we’ve found some fragments of shit in a debris field. Unfortunately, detailed analysis indicates that this shit wasn’t simply beamed into space as per standard procedure, but was forced into the vacuum by some sort of explosive decompression. Biometric analysis indicates that the shit probably belongs to Crewman Qwert, who was assigned to the Nernst. Though this bodes ill, there is not nearly enough debris to account for both the Nernst and the Spanker, so the search resumes. All civilian and local ships have been informed to keep an eye out for these ships, and the Klingons have been notified as well. All able available ships have been asked to join the search.”

    3. We need more then just a detachment to deal with the Penxi. A temporary reduction in border defenses will be worthwhile if we can make a demonstration of strength in the region, which will increase the Klingons’ opinion of the Federation, possibly helping to prevent future conflict. In the meantime, improving relations with the Klingons should be considered a priority. Reduced tensions will allow BOTH sides to focus less on the possibility of a war, and concentrate on the Penxi problem. This will free up additional ships, and if the Klingons decide to take more decisive action on the Penxi, then they will almost certainly need to reduce their border forces, allowing the Federation to correspondingly reduce their forces to deal with the Penxi.

    Being the Federation, we should take the first step in reducing border defenses. A small detachment of ships should immediately be sent to this sector. If the Klingons then reduce their own border units, the Federation can send another small detachment here, and perhaps diplomacy can be initiated for larger-scale movements.

    At any rate, due to recent losses, we barely have enough ships in the sector to deal with small-scale pirate raids, much less the large-scale ones that have occurred recently or a Klingon attack.

    4. This information should be forwarded to Starfleet Command. It looks like the Klingons are moving against the pirates, but they may be swiping at air if the pirates are entirely based in Penxi space. The information given to them in #1 would hopefully help them in this regard. Otherwise, there is not much we can do in regards to this situation due to lack of ships. Perhaps if the Nernst reported anything useful in its survey of the nebula, this information could be secretly passed on to the Klingons as well. We don’t really want the Klingons knowing when we detect their fleets, but throughout military history, if a civilian ship spots something, the whole world generally knows about it fairly quickly, so the Klingons wouldn’t be surprised if we knew about this fleet. Since we want the Klingons to have the advantage of surprise if they meet any pirates, the merchant captian would be asked not to reveal this information to anyone else. She could be given a contract at slightly above the market price as a “thank you” present.

    5. Some kid gets bitten by a rare insect, and due to the characteristics of the insects venom, and falls quite ill for several days. When Qiao hears of this, he orders all insects of this variety cleared from the area. Unfortunately, biologists report that the insect’s range is confined to the small area around the colony. The science facilities of the India [or insert ship around Sobchak’s planet here] are needed to eliminate the bugs. However, the captain of the India asks for instructions on how to proceed. What do you do?
     
    Posted by Shik (Member # 343) on :
     
    Tomorrow (Saturday)....expect a long one to make up for lost time.
     
    Posted by Shik (Member # 343) on :
     
    OK, gents, as I said, this is going to make up for lost time here. Please take notice of the time compression notations in bold contained within, yeh? Cheers.

    QUESTION SIX (eleven parts)


  • Respond to TWO (2) of the player-written scenarios posted in Q5, part 5. Your answers will have minimal bearing on the long-term nature of the rest of this course.

  • Two weeks after Part 1, raiders attack a Klingon outpost world and escape through the Ul'Chek Nebula. In his usual after-action bluster, General Plis'Qen again accuses the Federation of using the raiders to circumvent the Organian sanction on direct hostilities. This time, however, he has what he declares is incontrovertable proof: an image of USS Nernst firing upon & destroying a B'rel.

  • Four days after Plis'qen's angry communique, the Klingon force at Sobchak's Planet as detailed in Q2 initiates a blockade of the planet. Planetary operations are unaffected (that is to say, the UFP colony is left alone), but no Federation vessel will be allowed to leave or enter the local space.

  • Starfleet Command has finally listened to your constant gripes & prompted by the blockade (which has not been challenged yet), a fleet of 25 starships makes starfall at K-10 five days after the blockade begins. Task Force 614 is made up of the following vessels:

  • USS Essex (NCC-1697) & USS Endeavour (NCC-1895), Constitution-class heavy cruisers
  • USS Niakenchiis (NCC-1755) & USS Giap (NCC-1789), Pyotr Velikiy-class heavy cruisers
  • USS Artemis (NCC-1630), USS Ganesa (NCC-1674), & USS Anaconda (NCC-1714), Valley Forge-class heavy cruisers
  • USS Spectre (NCC-1727), USS Menander (NCC-1782), USS Khufu (NCC-1838) & USS Culloden (NCC-1866), Miranda-class frigates
  • USS Scheveningen (NCC-1800) & USS Stettin (NCC-1928), Chandley-class frigates
  • USS Balkan (NCC-1752), USS Narcis (NCC-1770), & USS Sachsen (NCC-1873), Loknar-class frigates
  • USS Takao (NCC-1768), USS Cybele (NCC-1801), & USS Asp (NCC-1880), Larson-class destroyers
  • USS Spinner (NCC-1685), USS Trumpeter (NCC-1814), & USS Forester (NCC-1859), Avenger-class destroyers
  • USS Growler (NCC-1632), USS Marauder (NCC-1790), & USS Ravager (NCC-1896), Predator-class destroyers

    TF 614 is commanded by Commodore Ayla Hage, commanding Essex. She reports to your office on K-10 & the two of you confer along with your respective staffs as to the current state of affairs. The general assesment is that the combined forces could go after the raider base noted in Q5, pt. 1 and the Klingon blockade simultaneously but that a consecutive full-fleet appraoch would be better for victory than a concurrent partail-fleet action. So what's first: the raider base or the blockade? Explain your reasons and any possible complications that may arise from a plan you might put together. Assume that all vessels have been refitted to TMP-era cosmetics & standards. Also, USS Neulovimy (NCC-1945) from Q5, pt. 1 has completed repairs & may be drafted into your local fleet temporarily.

  • Two days after TF 614's arrival, a small Klingon force comprised of 3 B'rel-class birds-of-prey and a single D-10 cruiser attack a small trade fleet retuning from Penxi space. The small convoy belongs to the lesser race that opened ties with the Penxi Optimus in Q4, pt. 4. The Klingons disable the vessels, board them, & seize the cargos along with any information on the Penxi contained within the computers. While the race involved is not a Federation member, the raid was conducted in what generally ammounts to Federation space.

  • Two hours after the raid, Sector Guard vessels responding to the distress call sent by the aliens encounter & engage the Klingon party. They incur substantial losses, enough where approximately 55% of the Guard's entire force is now decimated.

  • Three days after the attack, the Penxi Optimus launches an all-out attack against Sobchak's Planet. Three of their Lancaster equivalent vessels, one of the Siegfried equivalents, and 75 of the smaller ships conduct the attack. The Klingon blockade force in orbit takes up the defense of the entire planet (if you have any vessels in orbit, assume that they, too, joined in) but is quickly overwhelmed by the fierceness of the Penxi strike. Several ships are destroyed, most are crippled, and Penxi troops begin ladning in both Klingon & Federation settlements.

  • Communications with Sobchak's Planet go dark a few hours after the attack. One week after the strike & occupation, no word has been received from either Governors Qiao or Valg.

  • About the same time (that 1-week span), the large Klingon force spotted in Q5, pt. 4 decloaks around the Penxi Optimus homeworld (I'll leave the potential jokes open here) and begins orbitally bombarding it. Small raider-types effect a vigorous defense of the planet and bloody the Klingons' nose; 3 vessels are destroyed, 5 are crippled.

  • Two days after the Klingon retaliation, a smuggled report from the Federation colony on Sobchak's Planet reaches you. Short & urgent, the sender states that the Penxi are stripping the colony & planet of all natural resources. The populace is being utilized as slave labor regardless of age, gender, or infirmity, & there have been several deaths from overwork or punishment already. Among the first deaths was DSU Qiao, who was shot in the head point blank by a blaster-wielding trooper afater an indigant & blustery protest of treatment. There is no word as to how the Klingon settlement is faring.

  • One day after the report is received, the large Klingon force decloaks off K-10 & hails the station. General Plis'Qen is embarked aboard one of the K't'ingas & he formally requests repair, resupply, & rest at the station as per his rights under the Organian Peace Treaty. He also asks for a moment of YOUR time, alone.

    Told you it was going to be big.
     
    Posted by Neutrino 123 (Member # 1327) on :
     
    Question 6:

    1. To answer Minutiaeman’s scenario, it seems that the Klingons are monitoring our colony for some reason since the colonies are a long distance apart. This in itself doesn’t really matter. There should be no secrets in the colony. However, the fact that shots were exchanged indicates a more serious problem. Future scouting parties should be more heavily armed, and ordered to challenge the Klingons verbally to avoid misunderstandings. Meanwhile, the colony’s sensor network should be extended, and scouts send to challenge any groups of Klingons arriving, assuming they venture into the colony’s actual territory . The Klingons should be told not to approach the colony unscheduled except for emergencies.

    To answer Herbshrump’s scenario, the species should most certainly not be eliminated. However, even a simple sensor network (including seismic sensors) should be able to detect these things before they get to the colony, allowing precautions to be taken. As a temporary measure, the India could probably transport them away whenever they get close.
    Meanwhile, Starfleet scientists and any biologists on the planet could attempt to come up with a more permanent solution to stop the rampages.

    2. Two weeks after Part 1
    Wait a minute, exactly how is an Oberth attacking the Klingons proof that the Federation is using raiders against the Klingons...
    Nevertheless, this certainly isn’t a welcome development. Unless the Klingons have somehow falsified the image (this would be checked), it appears that the Penxi raiders have captured the Nernst. The same thing MAY have happened to the Spanker, though it was probably destroyed trying to protect the Nernst (I suppose there is a small chance it got away). The Klingons should be informed, at any rate, as well as all other vessels in the area.
    As for the Klingon blustering, the best thing to do would be to let him bluster himself out. Even assuming the Federation was assisting the pirates, sending an Oberth into battle would be an idiotic idea (better used for scouting for targets...).

    3. Four days afterward
    Damn it. There is nothing we can do about the blockade at the present. Fortunately, the agricultural colony should be self sufficient. However, they will begin to run out of very important things such as medical supplies eventually. India is in orbit around the planet, and should be able to look after the colony by itself for awhile. The blockade will need to be dealt with eventually, even if it means a big skirmish.


    4. Five days afterward
    What? Only 25 ships? I’ll settle for no less then 200 ships of balanced sizes! This is what would be needed if both the Klingons and Penxi would need to be dealt with. However, I will be willing to settle for 100 if the Klingons start to become less hostile.
    Also, how did a commodore get command of 25 ships, including many powerful ships? Even 10 smaller ships would be quite a lot. Starfleet must need more flag officers. The commander of the Neulovimy should be recommended for promotion, having been able to face so many pirates at once (and the ship would join the new fleet). If commodore Hage is entrusted to such a large fleet, she is probably a good officer as well, but before any further promotions are considered, we will see how everyone handles themselves in battle.

    We will definitely NOT divide our forces. I will transfer my flag to the Endeavor. The Penxi raider base is the clear target. They have done much more damage then the Klingons, and attacking them may cause the Klingons the end their blockade. Partially to give false intelligence to the enemy, the initial course of the fleet will be towards Sobchak’s planet, but not directly towards it. We will pass just outside the Klingon’s blockade, and send a narrow beam message to each ship in their fleet something along the lines of, “We go to attack the Penxi raiders, the true enemy. Join us in battle if you are not cowards.” The fleet shall leave as soon as all ships refit and re-supply from their transit.

    5. Two days afterward
    Damn Klingons. Federation ships will be publicly ordered to pursue pirates into Klingon space in this sector until the Klingons apologize to the neutrals and pay compensation. Meanwhile, the previously stated policy toward the neutrals would be continued.

    6. Two hours afterward
    Crap! Stupid hyper-efficient sector guard. Why did they have 55% of their ships within range of one little area? At least they showed the Klingons that raids into Federation borders will be hotly contested even by little militia ships. We need more ships in this sector to make a show of force against the Klingons. 300 should do the trick. Nevertheless, the previous plan of attacking the Penxi base will continue. We need to make the problem with the Klingons go away, not expand the problem by destroying their forces right next to an even nastier enemy.

    7. Three days afterward
    Poor India. It was due to be decommissioned next Tuesday...
    Surely this means war against the Penxi. It would be immediately be recommended to the government that they declare war, and I will take the liberty of putting the entire sector under war footing, including the Sector Guard, who will now defend only planet and essential convoys (nonessential transport runs will be prohibited, if legal).
    Plans for a strike to liberate Sobchak’s Planet will be made. It will be recommended to Starfleet Command that the Klingon border force be restructured as an anti-raiding force (the Klingons will be busy with the Penxi too) and that all newly available ships be sent here. I’ll remind Starfleet that the more forces I have, the fewer casualties we’ll take in the war. Since lives would DEFINITELY be saved by sending more ships, it is surely worth the cost of stripping other POTENTIAL trouble spots of ships. 400 should be sufficient.
    A strike on Sobshak’s planet should be completed soon if possible. It is possible if the Penxi have divided their ships over the two colonies, and Starfleet ships can approach and attack one group before the other can respond (and then quickly retreat after doing much damage). We don’t have enough ships to liberate the entire planet if the Penxi are concentrated without suffering at least major losses, and that’s assuming the Penxi haven’t send reinforcements, also that they couldn’t just retake the planet quickly due to the weakened Federation fleet’s state.

    9. One week afterward
    Just as I suspected the Klingons are at war with the Penxi, so the border defenses can definitely be reduced. Did they attack civilian targets, or only government and military?

    10. Two days afterward
    Slaughtering civilians? Surely the Federation will accept only the unconditional surrender of the Penxi. This should also force Starfleet to send more ships soon! Liberating Sobchak’s planet should be a priority task of this war. Nevertheless, we may want to strike at the Penxi “protrusion” into Federation territory first, possibly on the way to Sobchak’s planet. It would depend on exactly what the Penxi have in those planets. Destroying the Penxi fleet might be the main objective, but it is also important to destroy any bases they might have near Federation space.

    11. One day afterward
    Ah, about time he showed up. We must coordinate war plans. His forces will be provisioned and fully refitted according to the treaty, and beyond, the moment the Klingons admit their mistake of intruding into Federation territory, violating the treaty, and apologize for destroying all those ships. We cannot let the Klingons get away entirely with such a bad deed, but to lesson the impact of our reasonable demands, we will now declare a full blockade of the Penxi, and offer to sign an agreement allowing our ships to operate and transfer through our territories for the duration of this war.
    To actually formulate a warplan, I must know of the location of known relevant Penxi facilities and ships, as well as any other useful Penxi-related intelligence. Also, what kinds of reinforcements can I expect, and will the Klingons divulge the strength of their fleets in this area, to better coordinate (the Federation would reciprocate)? If intelligance is lacking in any Penxi-related areas, fast scouts would be sent out on intelligance missions (perhaps the Klingons could help in this regard).
     
    Posted by Shik (Member # 343) on :
     
    "Did they attack civilian targets, or only government and military?"

    Don't make me quote G'Kar.
     
    Posted by MinutiaeMan (Member # 444) on :
     
    Which G'Kar quote did you have in mind? [Wink]

    (I'm working on my response, but I gotta give it some thought...)
     
    Posted by Shik (Member # 343) on :
     
    The one about ORBITAL FUCKING BOMBARDMENT.
     
    Posted by MinutiaeMan (Member # 444) on :
     
    == Part 6A ==

    You might as well have told us to just answer everyone else's responses, Shik! [Wink]
    quote:
    Posted by Neutrino 123:
    Some kid gets bitten by a rare insect, and due to the characteristics of the insects venom, and falls quite ill for several days. When Qiao hears of this, he orders all insects of this variety cleared from the area. Unfortunately, biologists report that the insect’s range is confined to the small area around the colony. The science facilities of the India [or insert ship around Sobchak’s planet here] are needed to eliminate the bugs. However, the captain of the India asks for instructions on how to proceed. What do you do?

    Starfleet will not be a part of such radical terraforming. Regardless, the only ships orbiting Sobchak's are the Brandywine (a Belleau Wood carrier) and the Shaitan (an Asmodeus corvette), and they have zero science facilities. So nyah!
    quote:
    Posted by HerbShrump:
    The colony on Sobchak’s planet is in the midst of a severe crisis. Food supplies are drastically limited and certain key technological components/tools were lost all due to the attack by the Raiders before arriving at Sobchak’s planet. To complicate the matter further, the colony is being overran by large burrowing reptillian creatures (think of a monitor lizard the size of a baby elephant). These creatures have a near pack-like or herd mentality. They weren’t believed to be any danger to the colony and it’s suspected that something has changed to cause these animals to periodically go on violent destructive campaigns through the settlement. No deaths have been reported by several colonists have been injured. Mr. Qiao is demading the immediate eradication of the species, and so are a number of the colonists. Others are fighting this sentiment based on moral, ethical grounds and the Prime Directive. How can the colony be adequately protected without eliminating the animals and still placating Mr. Qiao?

    Step one: find out what's pissing off these animals. I assume they're not making a colony under our colony, because there's no way the Federation planners would be that stupid. It's probably something electronic or subspace-based. Step two: see if there's a way to keep them away without driving them into a frenzy. Step three: remind Mr. Qiao that Federation laws expressly forbid the hunting of any species to extinction. Defensive action is the only permissible course for now. And I will make a personal threat if he goes against that.

    == Part 6B ==

    Huh. Didn't see that one coming. I'll have to categorically deny everything, of course, but at this stage I don't think there's much that I can do against the General's accusations. I'll simply have to resort to the usual refrain: what would the Federation gain from such a deception? Attacking an outpost in legally-recognized Klingon territory that the Federation has relinquished all claim to (or so I presume) gains us nothing. It doesn't even disrupt the Klingons' operations to expand to Sobchak's Planet, which has been the apparent goal of the raiders so far. I'll also point out that the recent raid on our convoy was launched with Klingon-made cloaking devices, which could easily have been provided by the Empire to fight a proxy war. However, I recognize that there's a strong likelihood of theft, and I'll also add a bit of deft flattery and point out that the Klingons rarely stoop to such tactics, so I know they aren't responsible for the attacks against Federation forces.

    == Part 6C ==

    Shik: What's the status of the Brandywine and the Shaitan? Destroyed, driven off, or holding outside (or even inside) the blockade line?

    At this stage the Klingons have made the first overt violation of the Organian Peace Treaty. I'll shift what forces I have — my Avenger and Predator destroyer squadrons — closer towards Sobchak's to launch a relief mission if deemed necessary. I'll have to talk Plis'Qen down from his high horse, though, because there's no way I want to launch an offensive against the entrenched Klingon forces unless absolutely necessary.

    In the mean time, assuming that the Shaitan is still operational, I'll instruct them to make light, nonoffensive exploratory probes of the Klingon blockade, try to determine weakness, establish communication with the surface, and try to set a pattern that we can exploit later.

    == Part 6D ==
    Existing Fleet
    Yow! That's a bigger fleet than I was expecting... not that I'm going to refuse it, of course! I intend to make good use of this. And of course I'm going to draft Neulovimy.

    I agree that it would be better to take on our troubles one at a time, but I'm going to make a caveat... three ships will be detached from the fleet to take station in the outer reaches of the Sobchak's system. A Pyotr Velikiy, a Chandley, and an Avenger will join the Brandywine and the Shaitan while the rest of the fleet takes on the raiders. Let the Klingons know we're taking the blockade seriously and have firepower waiting, but that we're going after the real threat instead.

    The raiders are the real threat, because (1) they're more aggressive and unpredictable, unrestrained by any treaty and fighting a covert offensive, and (2) they could easily attack our flank as we take on the Klingon blockade.

    The plan is relatively simple... destroyers will take up silent station (operating in pairs if possible) at key positions outside the system, about 0.25-ly out from the primary. Once they're set up, three frigates will make a light probe of the system, to see what kind of trouble they can stir up. They will not heavily engage, but make it appear they weren't expecting the kind of resistance I'm really expecting. The main goal is to gather information as to defense locations and ship types and number. After that, the main fleet — the cruisers and frigates (all quite maneuverable and not vulnerable like the India — will assault the system on a full search-and-destroy mission. The destroyers will be tasked with intercepting any ships attempting to flee the system, while we blast their base and defenses to rubble.

    == Part 6E ==

    This is an unfortunate move, but I fail to see how this is considered Federation space if it's a neutral convoy heading between their planet and the Penxi. All I'll do is send a stiff warning to Plis'Qen that he's treading dangerously close to open warfare; as there's no Federation agreement with the victims of this assault, we have no just cause. But we won't take these attacks lying down, and we're not going to let him push further.

    == Part 6F ==

    Morons. They've effectively declared war on the Klingons, given them cause to invade the whole fucking sector! And for what? 55% casualties. I'll send their governments a nice "wish you were here" letter, and suggest they beef up their planetary defenses, since the Klingons may come calling while I'm doing my job. Oh wait, they don't HAVE any planetary defenses now, half of them have been blown up!

    ...Fortunately, my aide will talk me down from this rash action, and I refrain from sending the message.

    == Part 6G ==

    Okay, so I've lost the Shaitan, which was destroyed covering the Brandywine's escape; the latter's commander wisely ordered withdrawal once it was clear that there was no chance of a real defense, which was pretty much the minute the Penxi showed up.

    At this point, what we critically need is intelligence. We're effectively in a state of war with the Penxi now, and we need information. I'm going to dispatch three reconnaissance-in-force missions into the closest regions of Penxi space, each composed of a frigate and two destroyers. Their orders are to avoid direct combat at all costs, but to gather information about the size, location, and disposition of the Penxi military. If weak targets of opportunity can be attacked, they can be... but only if they do not slow down the mission or jeopardize the safety of the squadron. It's a recon first, cavalry raid second.

    The goal of this is to (1) show the Penxi we're not taking this lying down, and hopefully make them think twice about any further attacks, (2) get vital information about the interior of their space, which is now fair game, and (3) hopefully divert some enemy forces from offensive operations for defensive stations instead.

    The strike against the raider outpost (by now it's pretty obvious that the raiders and the Penxi are one and the same) is put on hold, because a Federation colony has been taken. Plus, Sobchak's Planet will serve as a useful launching point for raids further into the Penxi Optimus.

    Oh, and I'll send a polite little "told ya so" note to General Plis'Qen.

    == Part 6H ==

    Not much I can do here. No chance of infiltrating the system given my forces and the enemy's strength, and we're not ready for a full assault yet.

    Concerning the Klingon raid, it's typical... they've bloodied the Penxi's noses, but not much more. Though hopefully, they've achieved the same thing my recon forces will; force the Penxi to pull back their forces for better defense. (I'd be able to react better to the Klingon losses if I knew how big their fleet was to begin with.)

    == Part 6I ==

    This ups the ante. It's not just about territory, it's about resources and people. They know they can't hold the planet against both their enemies, so they're sacking the whole damn place instead. I was wrong, Mr. Qiao isn't wasn't the lowest form of scum imaginable; at least he had limits to his theories.

    I'm going to assume that the Federation Council has been informed; I'm going to send an ultimatum informing the Penxi that they've entered into hostilities against the Federation, and that if they don't pull back immediately, we will not rest until their military has been dismantled and their government humbled.

    == Part 6J ==

    At this point, I can afford to be gracious... we both want the same thing. Plis'Qen's request will be granted without any snide comments. (And technically, and CAN'T afford NOT to be gracious, because pissing him off will make cooperation difficult. Even if I was right, the Penxi went to enormous trouble to hide their agenda. Plis'Qen was simply blinded by the bigger enemy, whom he assumed was responsible.) All available resources will be provided. I will invite the General to meet with me ASAP. And I'll tell him exactly what I commented on here.

    quote:
    Told you it was going to be big.
    Big? You call this big? I survived the Driian Blitzkreig in Sector Beta, orchestrated by the evil Admiral Timo! This is not big! [Razz]

    (Kidding, kidding...)
     
    Posted by Shik (Member # 343) on :
     
    What's the status of the Brandywine and the Shaitan? Destroyed, driven off, or holding outside (or even inside) the blockade line?

    Well, you answered that for yourself. I will allot you this: Brandywine limped back to K-10, but she's at ...um...45% capacity.

    At this stage the Klingons have made the first overt violation of the Organian Peace Treaty.

    Yes...& no. It's not an ACTIVELY hostile action. Yet.

    Big? You call this big?

    Well, the setup is.
     
    Posted by MinutiaeMan (Member # 444) on :
     
    Yeah, I knew the Brandywine took some hits; I meant to indicate that there was some combat even though they bugged out right away. I just had to assume, from the wording of your later question with the Penxi assault, that you weren't actually having the Klingons attack outright in establishing the blockade. So the ships were still there. And it's obvious that, whether inside or outside the blockade, that would've been abandoned when the Penxi attacked.

    Ahh... the power of Logic! [Wink]

    As for the "first overt violation," I'm referring to in this sector only. Should'a been more clear.
     
    Posted by HerbShrump (Member # 1230) on :
     
    quote:
    A civilian survey party, exploring the territory around the colony on foot, encounters a small Klingon scouting party, also on foot. A few shots are exchanged between the two sides, but in the dense, forested foliage, it doesn't seem as if anyone hit anything (on either side). Depending on your colony's location and distance from the Klingon settlement, this could either be an inevitable occurrence from proximity or a sinister indication of greater movements by the Klingons. React accordingly. (Oh, and regardless, Mr. Qiao is screaming bloody murder again and demanding the formation of an anti-Klingon posse with a "shoot first, ask questions never" policy. Does this actually seem like a good idea?)
    The colony is on the freaking other side of the planet! I specifically requested the colony be placed as far away from the Klingons to avoid this very incident. Sheesh, what are the Klingons doing, trying to start a war?

    All survey parties are to be kept within a 5 hour walk from the colony. All survey parties are to be escorted by armed Starfleet personnel. We immediately contact General Plis'Quin and the Klingon governor and demand an explaination for this unprovoked incursion into Federation territory. We aren't on their side of the planet, mind you. The Klingons are on our side. This has got to stop.

    At the same time, someone will need to keep Mr Qiao in line or he's liable to start a war. We'll give him the fools errand of coming up with defensive strategies for the Colony in case of a Klingon assault. Under no circumstances, however, are the civilian colonists to be traipsing around armed.

    quote:
    Some kid gets bitten by a rare insect, and due to the characteristics of the insects venom, and falls quite ill for several days. When Qiao hears of this, he orders all insects of this variety cleared from the area. Unfortunately, biologists report that the insect’s range is confined to the small area around the colony. The science facilities of the India [or insert ship around Sobchak’s planet here] are needed to eliminate the bugs. However, the captain of the India asks for instructions on how to proceed. What do you do?
    The insects will not be destroyed. We'll study them, find a solution, possibly relocate the insects, but not destroy them. Surely this can't be the only spot on the entire planet, or the entire continent for that matter, where these insects are.

    I hate to divert the Alacrity from patrol to study this problem. If it is possible, we'll tow the India into orbit and let them handle the situation. She may have been damaged beyond repair, but I bet we can still use her as an orbital lab. We'll do that. The hulk of the India will be towed to Sobchak's Planet, where repairs will be made to make the India a functional space station for colony support. The lab space will be set aside to study the problem. We'll either find a repelant, a cure/vaccine for the venom or decide on moving the insect colony.

    Moving the insect colony to the Klingon settlement looks very favorable to me.

    quote:
    Two weeks after Part 1, raiders attack a Klingon outpost world and escape through the Ul'Chek Nebula. In his usual after-action bluster, General Plis'Qen again accuses the Federation of using the raiders to circumvent the Organian sanction on direct hostilities. This time, however, he has what he declares is incontrovertable proof: an image of USS Nernst firing upon & destroying a B'rel.
    After laughing in the Klingon's face for even suggesting that we'd use a science vessel as an assault ship, we'll counter that the Klingons seem to be heavily involved in all of this, seeing how we've proven that these raiders are using Klingon tech and that we already reported the Nernst missing.

    After much bluster, we'll calm down and try to approach this rationally. Obviously these raiders are using our equipment against us and each other. Isn't it about time we stopped bickering and combined forces to end this problem?

    quote:
    Four days after Plis'qen's angry communique, the Klingon force at Sobchak's Planet as detailed in Q2 initiates a blockade of the planet. Planetary operations are unaffected (that is to say, the UFP colony is left alone), but no Federation vessel will be allowed to leave or enter the local space.
    Sheesh, they attack our colonists, now are blockading the planet? It looks like they want to go to war. We'll demand the Klingons remove the blockade or Starfleet will send in capital ships. This situation is drastically spiraling out of control toward warfare. While we don't want that and will do everything we can to keep peace, we will not stand for Klingons to occupy or enslave our citizens.

    We'll try diplomatic channels, but I will keep requesting additional reinforcements from Starfleet.

    quote:
    # Four days after Plis'qen's angry communique, the Klingon force at Sobchak's Planet as detailed in Q2 initiates a blockade of the planet. Planetary operations are unaffected (that is to say, the UFP colony is left alone), but no Federation vessel will be allowed to leave or enter the local space.

    # Starfleet Command has finally listened to your constant gripes & prompted by the blockade (which has not been challenged yet), a fleet of 25 starships makes starfall at K-10 five days after the blockade begins.

    TF 614 is commanded by Commodore Ayla Hage, commanding Essex. She reports to your office on K-10 & the two of you confer along with your respective staffs as to the current state of affairs. The general assesment is that the combined forces could go after the raider base noted in Q5, pt. 1 and the Klingon blockade simultaneously but that a consecutive full-fleet appraoch would be better for victory than a concurrent partail-fleet action. So what's first: the raider base or the blockade? Explain your reasons and any possible complications that may arise from a plan you might put together. Assume that all vessels have been refitted to TMP-era cosmetics & standards. Also, USS Neulovimy (NCC-1945) from Q5, pt. 1 has completed repairs & may be drafted into your local fleet temporarily.

    About freaking time.

    We'll go after the raider base first. I really don't want to go to war with the Klingons. They haven't harmed our colony (yet) and hopefully by attacking the raiders, the Klingons will see we've been truthful about this whole situation. Besides, the Klingons can just reinforce their people as easily as we can, so fighting the Klingons head to head won't be easy. Attacking the raiders, however, should be a much simpler assignment.

    quote:
    Two days after TF 614's arrival, a small Klingon force comprised of 3 B'rel-class birds-of-prey and a single D-10 cruiser attack a small trade fleet retuning from Penxi space. The small convoy belongs to the lesser race that opened ties with the Penxi Optimus in Q4, pt. 4. The Klingons disable the vessels, board them, & seize the cargos along with any information on the Penxi contained within the computers. While the race involved is not a Federation member, the raid was conducted in what generally ammounts to Federation space
    We will lodge official complaint and protest about conducting military actions within our territory, but we'll leave it alone. What else are we going to do? Our patrols will be increased with direct orders to confront and warn the Klingons when encountered on our side of the border, but to avoid engagement if possible.

    quote:
    Two hours after the raid, Sector Guard vessels responding to the distress call sent by the aliens encounter & engage the Klingon party. They incur substantial losses, enough where approximately 55% of the Guard's entire force is now decimated.
    See, that's what happens when you play with the big boys. We appreciate the Sector Guard, but strongly urge/order them to fall back and reinforce sector defense. Starfleet has given us plenty of ships now, we'll hold the border. The border is now a no-fly zone and should remain clear of all civilian/non-Starfleet craft. Any Sector Guard violating the no-fly-zone will have their ship boarded and seized and their crews detained.

    quote:
    # Three days after the attack, the Penxi Optimus launches an all-out attack against Sobchak's Planet. Three of their Lancaster equivalent vessels, one of the Siegfried equivalents, and 75 of the smaller ships conduct the attack. The Klingon blockade force in orbit takes up the defense of the entire planet (if you have any vessels in orbit, assume that they, too, joined in) but is quickly overwhelmed by the fierceness of the Penxi strike. Several ships are destroyed, most are crippled, and Penxi troops begin ladning in both Klingon & Federation settlements.

    # Communications with Sobchak's Planet go dark a few hours after the attack. One week after the strike & occupation, no word has been received from either Governors Qiao or Valg.

    # About the same time (that 1-week span), the large Klingon force spotted in Q5, pt. 4 decloaks around the Penxi Optimus homeworld (I'll leave the potential jokes open here) and begins orbitally bombarding it. Small raider-types effect a vigorous defense of the planet and bloody the Klingons' nose; 3 vessels are destroyed, 5 are crippled.

    The time for the battle is now. Cry havoc, and let slip the dogs of war!

    We'll immediately contact the Klingons and inform them of this decision. The enemy of my enemy is my ally. It's apparent we have a common enemy. Let's join forces and settle this once and for all.

    We'll begin our assault on the raider base. They seem to be scatted at the moment between Sobchak's planet and the Penxi homeworld. After the Raider base falls, we'll request the Klingons send ground reinforcements to occupy and hold this position, while our ships will proceed to the Penxi homeworld and aid in the battle there.

    quote:
    Two days after the Klingon retaliation, a smuggled report from the Federation colony on Sobchak's Planet reaches you. Short & urgent, the sender states that the Penxi are stripping the colony & planet of all natural resources. The populace is being utilized as slave labor regardless of age, gender, or infirmity, & there have been several deaths from overwork or punishment already. Among the first deaths was DSU Qiao, who was shot in the head point blank by a blaster-wielding trooper afater an indigant & blustery protest of treatment. There is no word as to how the Klingon settlement is faring.
    Radio Free Sobchak's is now on the air. We'll send encouragment to the people on Sobchak's planet. Be strong, be brave. We're coming for you.

    quote:
    One day after the report is received, the large Klingon force decloaks off K-10 & hails the station. General Plis'Qen is embarked aboard one of the K't'ingas & he formally requests repair, resupply, & rest at the station as per his rights under the Organian Peace Treaty. He also asks for a moment of YOUR time, alone.
    Klingon repairs are granted top priority. Bloodwine, Romulan Ale, Kentucky Whiskey and Russian Vodka for everyone. Have the General escorted to my office at once.
     
    Posted by MinutiaeMan (Member # 444) on :
     
    Hmm. The sector seems to have gotten stuck in some kind of temporal anomaly. It feels like months have passed, yet the calendar tells me that barely a couple of days have gone by!

    I must remind my operations officer to consult the nearest Federation time beacon more frequently...
     
    Posted by Shik (Member # 343) on :
     
    Been busy. Pinched at lab & to be honest...no one seems to care anymore.
     
    Posted by MinutiaeMan (Member # 444) on :
     
    The first thing to spring to mind reading your response was Luke Skywalker wistfully commenting to Princess Leia, "I care..."

    I'm such a geek... [Wink]
     
    Posted by Mark Nguyen (Member # 469) on :
     
    Hey, I'll be the first in line to say that doing these things can be quite a task. However, I'll also wsay that it's ultimately rewarding in the end. Stay the course! Let them! Take the shields offline and recharge the emitters - that'll bring them up to full power!

    Mark
     
    Posted by HerbShrump (Member # 1230) on :
     
    I've just been patiently waiting.

    Either that or the subspace receiver has been down.
     
    Posted by MinutiaeMan (Member # 444) on :
     
    So, what's happened? The Klingons hit Starfleet Command with one of those wacky stasis field weapons, or something?

    In other news, my strategic operations officer finally got off his lazy ass and sent me a tactical update for the various incidents in the sector...

     -
     
    Posted by Shik (Member # 343) on :
     
    (Still busy, no Mac yet, working on project, no scanner access, no graphics software, no time to think, worrying about money, hoping iPod is only mostly dead & not all dead)
     
    Posted by MinutiaeMan (Member # 444) on :
     
    S'okay, just wondering if it'd been forgotten. I just might start my own in the mean time, if that's okay. (Though it'll probably be a couple weeks, 'cause I've got only a few notes at the moment, and I'd want more material ready.)

    Anyone have a preference, between politics and tactics? [Big Grin]
     
    Posted by Shik (Member # 343) on :
     
    Go ahead. Maybe playing will get me going on finishing.
     
    Posted by MinutiaeMan (Member # 444) on :
     
    Okay, I've got three ideas to work on: a scenario with the Maquis, a bumpy-headed alien blitzkrieg, or Sector Beta, Part II: The Revenge!. Not sure which one I'll do... Anyone have a preference?
     
    Posted by Malnurtured Snay (Member # 411) on :
     
    The Maquis!
     
    Posted by Malnurtured Snay (Member # 411) on :
     
    I miss these.
     
    Posted by Fabrux (Member # 71) on :
     
    Well, you can certainly count on Shik never finishing this up. [Frown]
     
    Posted by MinutiaeMan (Member # 444) on :
     
    I miss 'em too. I might try pulling together some old ideas, try to get one going.... How many people would join in?
     
    Posted by Fabrux (Member # 71) on :
     
    I'd be game for one. [Smile]
     
    Posted by Malnurtured Snay (Member # 411) on :
     
    I'm in.
     
    Posted by MinutiaeMan (Member # 444) on :
     
    Anyone else?
     
    Posted by The Ginger Beacon (Member # 1585) on :
     
    Yeah, all right. Never done one before, but there's a first time for everything.
     
    Posted by Malnurtured Snay (Member # 411) on :
     
    Anybody else?!
     
    Posted by shikaru808 (Member # 2080) on :
     
    Yes.
     
    Posted by MinutiaeMan (Member # 444) on :
     
    Okay, I'll try to work up some ideas this weekend. It'll be a week or two before I start it.
     
    Posted by MinutiaeMan (Member # 444) on :
     
    Any preferences to the general era? TOS, movie, pre-TNG, TNG-VOY, or post-VOY?
     
    Posted by Fabrux (Member # 71) on :
     
    Anything goes, although if you do post-VOY you'll have to decide if you're following the STO timeline or the Pocket Books timeline...
     
    Posted by The Ginger Beacon (Member # 1585) on :
     
    I'll go with what ever, but I'd need to bone up if we do post-Voy. Depends on the scenario really, so go with what you like mate and we'll go with the flow!
     
    Posted by MinutiaeMan (Member # 444) on :
     
    I'm leaning towards the TNG era at this point. Been reviewing all sorts of scraps for ideas and inspiration. We'll see how it turns out!
     


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