VALHALLA
Link to Valhalla

Valhalla is a galaxy full of wonder, excitement, and constant battle. It is a nexus of wormholes, a focal point for endless galaxies to explore and fight over. Contained in Valhalla are precious resources, rare technology, valuable worlds, unlimited energy, and more. These prizes are constantly shifting, with new treasures constantly being added. It is also home to space creatures never heard of before, monsters so deadly they are only spoken of in hushed tones by Valhalla's denizens. Many empires have used their wormholes to establish a foothold in Valhalla, but it rarely lasts due to the constant influx of starships from new galaxies.

No one knows who (or what) created Valhalla, only that it exists to be exploited and taken advantage of.

In terms of Star Fleet Battles, Valhalla provides me with the opportunity to explore fantastic ideas never before possible. Valhalla is not constrained by a specific Design Paradigm, therefore it is free to include nearly anything. But how is Balance possible in such a place? The answer lies not in the ships, empires, monsters, weapons, or technology, but rather in scenarios. Scenarios will be the key to Valhalla, with each one being carefully evaluated for Balance and then refined according to playtest feedback. Valhalla can include ultra-powerful starships, ultra-weak starships, unusual designs, and ships that defy logic. As long as they fit within a specific scenario and there is a equal possibility for each side to win the scenario, Valhalla will be functional.

Valhalla awaits those brave (or foolish) enough to enter its magnificent depths.

By Norman Dizon (Normandizon) on Wednesday, June 05, 2019 - 10:07 pm: Edit

PEACE KEEPER HEAVY CRUISER SSD
Link to the Peace Keeper Heavy Cruiser SSD

In order to create a Baseline for Valhalla, I created the Peace Keepers. The Peace Keepers are a steady force in Valhalla, a factor that (foolishly) tries to maintain peace and order in a highly chaotic and unstable realm. I will use the Peace Keepers in many Valhalla scenarios in order to assess the playability of each scenario.

The Peace Keepers are based on Federation Designs, but I made some major changes so that the ships fly quite differently in terms of tactics. Overall, I am pleased with how they turned out. They are different enough to stand on their own as a unique empire, but still generic enough to be used in Valhalla scenario evaluation.

By Norman Dizon (Normandizon) on Monday, June 10, 2019 - 10:02 pm: Edit

BLACK WOLF - COMMONWEALTH JOURNAL
STARDATE 06.10.19
Link to previous Black Wolf Journals


Mother Bethany clutched Crewman Jacobson's hand tightly. Her white robes danced all around his body like doves playfully chasing each other on a summer day. Mark Jacobson stared into Mother Bethany's deep blue eyes which, for some reason, reminded him of his mother's eyes. Her pure white hair dangled over his hand, as soft as strands of pure silk. Slowly, Crewman Jacobson felt the pain go out of his body. He breathed a sigh of relief that his terrible suffering was being eased.

The Black Wolf had responded to a distress call emanating from the planet Argon-3. Captain Lupinus beamed down with a landing party which included Mother Bethany, Crewman Jacobson, and four other Security Officers. They quickly found the source of the distress call. It was a shuttle that had crash landed in a mountainous region. The shuttle was broadcasting an automated message. Later, the landing party was horrified to find the three survivors impaled by huge spears. Something large had thrown them with deadly accuracy. None of the three survivors lived.

At that moment, Captain Lupinus and the landing party came under attack. From the fog, giant figures hurled large spears at them, grunting in an unknown language. Crewman Davis was hit in the thigh, while Crewman Romero suffered a blow to his shoulder. Quickly, the landing party returned fire with phasers, disintegrating two of the giants and driving the rest of them to retreat. That was when Captain Lupinus heard Crewman Jacobson moaning. One of the giant spears had struck him in the torso, completely penetrating his body through to the opposite side.

Memories flowed freely into Mother Bethany's mind. She saw Mark Jacobson as a child, so happy with his family. He promised them he would join the Commonwealth to make them proud. Later, at the Academy, he did just that. Studying hard, he earned his title as a Security Officer. It was his honor to protect the lives of others. Mark also managed to fall in love, marrying a lovely woman named Pamela. The two pledged to spend the rest of their lives together, even if he was in the Commonwealth and she was a civilian.

Their wedding was beautiful, a traditional ceremony held on the Floating Lake of Venimar. Mark was so happy that day. He had found his one true love, something that many people fail to do. Mark imagined the two of them growing old together, having lived a long and fulfilled life with each other.

Mark gasped as blood spit out of his mouth. Although his pain was being relieved, he was still dying. Mother Bethany saw regret in his quivering eyes. Regret that he would never see Pamela again. Regret that they would not grow old together. Regret that he never got to say goodbye to her. But there was something else...

Mother Bethany closed her eyes and concentrated. You have to let it go, my son. It's alright. I am not here to judge you. Release this terrible memory that has been weighing down your soul for so long. You must, before you leave this life.

Mark Jacobson clenched his teeth and nodded. Tears streamed down his face. He held onto Mother Bethany's hand as tightly as he could.

It happened on Moon Base Triton. Crewman Jacobson had been stationed there prior to being assigned to the Black Wolf. He was lonely. So lonely. It had been six months since he had been with Pamela. While he kept in regular communication with her over subspace, it wasn't the same as being physically there with her.

Ivana was a fellow Security Officer. The two of them were frequently assigned together, working long hours in remote sectors. They couldn't help but to become close. Ivana was away from her husband too, so she understood the pain that Mark felt being away from Pamela. Then one evening, while the two of them were off duty, they both drank more than they should have. Perhaps it was an accident. Or perhaps they did it on purpose to drown away their sorrows. Whatever the reason, their willpower faded away and they both gave in to the natural urges they had suppressed within themselves for so long...

Mark Jacobson forced his eyes open. Without saying a word, he pleaded with Mother Bethany for Forgiveness. He didn't mean for it to happen. And he was so sorry. He was so sorry for betraying the oath he made to Pamela. He never meant to hurt her. He was just so lonely. And Ivana needed him that night. They both needed each other. They were trapped together in a forsaken place, unable to feel happiness anymore. Both of them just wanted to feel happy one more time. Just for one evening. Crewman Jacobson squeezed Mother Bethany's hand again.

Please forgive me.

Mother Bethany closed her eyes. Her voice echoed in Mark's mind. Rest easy, my son. Of course the King of Stars forgives you. He forgives everything you have done wrong in your life. You know what you have done. You know the secrets that you keep within. Now it is time to let them all go. You must pass freely without burden into your next life. You will be with the King of Stars soon. But he has given you a gift. Because he Loves you.

Crewman Jacobson gazed at Mother Bethany with confusion in his eyes. And then he understood. Mark smiled. He would be given one last chance to say goodbye to Pamela. Just not in the way he expected. Thank you, Crewman Jacobson screamed inside his mind. Thank you so, so much...

Crewman Jacobson's body went limp. His breathing stopped. Captain Lupinus and his Security Officers watched with heavy hearts. Mother Bethany let go of his cold hand and whispered a steady prayer three times. Then she lifted her arms upward, allowing his Soul to fly to its next destination.

Many, many light years away, Pamela lay in her bed. She missed Mark for some reason, as if he might not return to her. It was a dread feeling, something so heavy it keeps you from breathing. A cold sweat covered her body and she began shaking. Please don't let him be gone. Please let me see him again.

And then suddenly, he was there.

By Norman Dizon (Normandizon) on Monday, June 10, 2019 - 11:30 pm: Edit

END OF DAYS
Link to the SNEAK PEAK UNITY HEAVY CRUISER SSD


In order to properly come up with the fiction for End of Days, I had to create the SSD for the Unity Heavy Cruiser. The U.S.S. Michael, which is featured in the story, is a Unity Heavy Cruiser. Presented here is a Sneak Peak of the Unity Heavy Cruiser SSD. Note that the Full Posting, which will include all Rules to play the Unity Heavy Cruiser, will be revealed at a later date.

End of Days is a galaxy similar to the Alpha Sector, which is at the End of its Timeline. The various empires of End of Days possess very advanced technology, much more advanced than the Alpha Sector (but not as evolved as X2). The galaxy will come to an end when an unstoppable force invades the galaxy, one which even the advanced empires of End of Days cannot stop. Too late, the empires of the End of Days realize that the goal of the Invaders is not to conquer their galaxy, but instead to grind it to dust.

By Norman Dizon (Normandizon) on Tuesday, June 11, 2019 - 01:08 pm: Edit

BLACK WOLF - COMMONWEALTH JOURNAL
STARDATE 06.11.19
Link to previous Black Wolf Journals


Mother Bethany stared silently at Captain Lupinus as he barked out orders on the Bridge of the Black Wolf. He was so strong, so handsome, so confident, so inspiring. Like a Force of Nature. Mother Bethany felt her heart skip a beat. The attraction was clear. She could not deny it. But she could control it. Restrain it so that the powerful emotions she felt would remain a prisoner in her heart forever.

Talbot and Bethany had fallen in love at the Commonwealth Academy. They had met while taking Command Classes, something that would continue for years to come. Talbot was certain that he wanted to captain his own starship, but Bethany was not so sure. She didn't know if she wanted to bear the weight of that kind of responsibility. But a First Officer, supporting a worthy Captain, that was a position she could aspire towards. She and Talbot talked about tactics, leadership, training, running a starship, and all the dreams they had. Both of them were very young. There was a special bond between the two, something that could not be seen, only felt. But sometimes love isn't enough. Sometimes, Life takes the love that made you feel so alive, and twists it like a dagger in your back.

Bethany was scheduled to go to Vatica, where she would undergo the rituals required to become one of the renowned Saints of the galaxy. The Saints of Vatica were spiritual entities, conduits to a divine power they called the King of Stars. There was no questioning their supernatural abilities. Unfortunately, becoming a Saint of Vatica also meant giving up any chance Bethany had of having a family with Talbot. Such things were strictly forbidden by the Order of Saints. Their love was meant for the whole universe, not just one person.

Talbot had not yet completed the Ceremony of the Wolf with his tribe. The Ceremony of the Wolf was a dangerous ritual, one which would change you forever. Only specific people were chosen throughout the generations to fulfill the Ceremony of the Wolf, and Talbot had been one of them. He was assured that his Transformation would not interfere with his aspirations to become a Commonwealth Captain. So even Talbot's life path took him in a different direction than becoming one with Bethany forever.

Why? Why was Life so cruel? Didn't Life want Bethany to be happy? Didn't Life want Talbot to be happy? Was this all the Divine Plan of the King of Stars? Was she being tested in some way? What if they had both given up their dreams in order to be together? Would they have been more complete in life as Husband and Wife with a Family of their own?

"Mother Bethany? Did you hear me?"

Mother Bethany snapped out of her personal thoughts. She found Captain Lupinus staring at her with concern on his face. He also had a look like he knew exactly what she was thinking.

"My apologies, Captain," Mother Bethany responded, stroking her white hair to draw Talbot's attention. "My mind was...elsewhere."

"I understand," Captain Talbot replied calmly. "It happens to all of us. But I need my First Officer's attention to be completely focused on the here and now. What can you tell about the people aboard that shuttle? What feelings do you sense? Are you able to pick up any stray thoughts?"

Mother Bethany concentrated and did as her Captain commanded. Quickly, she provided him with the information he needed, so he could make the best command decisions for his crew. But Mother Bethany had also sensed something else. Not from the shuttle, but from Captain Lupinus himself.

Worry. Concern. Compassion. A Terrible Yearning. A Burning Passion. Thoughts of Mother Bethany at all hours, even in his Dreams.

Talbot still loved Bethany intensely with all of his Heart and all of his Soul.

By Norman Dizon (Normandizon) on Wednesday, June 12, 2019 - 02:40 pm: Edit

BLACK WOLF - COMMONWEALTH JOURNAL
STARDATE 06.12.19
Link to previous Black Wolf Journals


Captain Lupinus found this display hard to watch. He had seen many terrible things in his time, even performed horrible acts himself. But there was something about this brutal violence that shook him down to the core. Was it the Naked Fury? The apparent Primal Bestiality? Or was there something hidden underneath all this...something that stayed out of the light, preferring to act silently from the shadows...Courage?

Athena was pummeled over and over by six of her finest troops. The nine foot tall Acryan was beaten, bloody, and covered with cuts. Another slash cut her arm. A fist hammered her face. A kick smashed into her ribs. Another boot stomped on her face. A stick struck her in the back. A dagger drove into her thigh. Another punch to the face. Another kick. Another stab. Another strike. Another punch. Another cut. Another stomp. Another punch. Another slice. Another elbow. Another blow. Another punch. Another kick. Another slice. Another stomp. Another stab. Another fist to the jaw. She was on all fours now, crawling forward, blood dripping down on the ground like rivers flowing off a sharp cliff.

Then suddenly, Athena sprung into action with renewed vigor. A sweep kick brought down one of her assailants. Continuing the motion, she sprang into the air, performing a spinning kick that smashed into the face of another attacker. A third combatant felt her boot drive into his abdomen, as a side kick sent him flying across the room. The fourth soldier received a series of elbows, three to the head, two to the stomach, and one to the neck. The fifth warrior struggled to break free from a wrestling hold, only to find himself being lifted high in the air and then brought down forcefully on his head. Athena delivered a head butt to the sixth opponent, followed by four uppercuts to the abdomen and a flying knee to the chin. Within moments, Athena was the only one standing.

"Well done, my Wolf Pack," Athena announced in a proud voice. She wiped some blood off of her bronze skin. "I salute your Bravery. Thank you for Elevating Me during this Contest. You see, it's not when you are at your Peak that you find your true Inner Self. It is when you are at your Lowest that Who You Really Are is Revealed. What you do then makes All the Difference. Do you Give Up, having sustained more injuries than you can bear? Or do you Fight Back with all the Courage remaining in your Soul? Mark my Words Well and Remember this Lesson. Now, report to the Medbay immediately to heal your injuries."

The six members of the Wolf Pack quickly cleared the room. Captain Lupinus slowly approached Athena from across the room.

Athena looked at Captain Lupinus through four eyes blackened from the repeated strikes. Her four pointed ears had been bent out of position, one of them nearly torn in half. Although she had a flat surface for a nose, blood still trickled out of it. On one shoulder, a prominent tattoo of an Owl was visible. On her other shoulder, a tattoo of a Medusa's head staring with hair full of snakes.

"I had to be sure that you were the right person to lead the Wolfpack," Captain Lupinus stated, handing Athena a clean white towel. "Now, I have no doubt. But this demonstration was unnecessary. I don't condone senseless brutality. If you must fight, fight for a cause. Fight to save lives."

Athena stood tall despite her injuries. She looked down at Captain Lupinus with eyes full of pity. Almost as if he would never understand what it meant to be a part of the Wolfpack. For a long moment, she said nothing, simply staring at him with cold, hard eyes that did not blink. Then finally she spoke.

"It my Honor to Serve, Captain. My Wolfpack and I are ready to Lay Down our Lives at any moment for You. Just say the Word and it shall be Done."

Captain Lupinus met her gaze, searching for what lay within those four battered eyes. He saw Determination, Sacrifice, Honor, Duty, and Death. This was someone that he, even in his Wolf Form, would dread to fight. For she would not stop until one of them was dead.

"You do your predecessor, Leo, proud," Captain Lupinus commented, remembering the files he read on the White Wolf. "He also served his Captain all the way to the End."

Athena spit out some blood from her mouth. She straightened out her black, braided hair. Then she smiled widely and said,

"I have the utmost respect for my Elder, Leo, and all his accomplishments."

"But please don't compare the two of us, Captain."

"You see, when I am the Alpha of the Wolf Pack..."

"It's an Entirely Different BEAST."

By Norman Dizon (Normandizon) on Thursday, June 13, 2019 - 04:04 am: Edit

MENAGERIE
Link to Menagerie

Menagerie reimagines the Alpha Sector with one crucial difference - every empire was forced to employ living ships to explore space.

In this new galaxy, there will be a variety of living organisms being used as starships. For example, the "Federation" will fly in Photon-Armed Space Dragons. These won't be the Space Dragons from the Monster Scenario, or even the Branthodon Space Dragons, but rather something more simplified. Each creature needs to be unique, with its own set of advantages in battle.

For the SSD and Rules, Menagerie will follow the example set by the Alunda. While they are living creatures, the Alunda still play basically like a starship on the tabletop. I don't really want to mimic the Branthodon, with their Damage Chart, Vitals, and Exoskeleton. At the same time, there needs to be a few Rules to make it clear that this is a living organism, not a standard starship.

Menagerie will need some kind of technical explanation for why there was a need to use living starships. This reason is actually an afterthought and not as important as making sure each living creature is playable on the tabletop. But some ideas come to mind. Perhaps there are vital elements or materials that are missing in Menagerie which prevent the construction of standard starships. Perhaps it is more economically feasible to use the vast numbers of living creatures available for starships rather than building starships out of materials. Or maybe the empires of Menagerie simply preferred living starships due to the preferences of their own unique biology.

One important distinction that I want to exist between Menagerie and the Alpha Sector is the resources being fought over. The living creatures of Menagerie will need certain types of food, specific breeding grounds, and unique environments to exist in. This means that when the Map is created and the Timeline written, careful consideration must be paid to these aspects. The empires of Menagerie will go to war for different reasons than the Alpha Sector, reasons that are driven by their dependence on living creatures to travel through space.

Like many of the Genesis Galaxies, Menagerie will feature smaller ships simply because that is my preference (at the moment). A Heavy Cruiser will probably be something more like a Light Cruiser or Destroyer. Not only will this will make the SSD's easier to create, but it will also speed up gameplay. Each living starship should still feature the entire spectrum of capabilities for the Captain to utilize.

Tactics is another key component to Menagerie. I don't want to create living starships simply for the fun of it. Each living starship must fly differently on the battlefield. Each one must have their own unique set of Tactics that enables them to be victorious in combat. The goal for Menagerie is to create a new experience for the SFB Captain, one which they do not experience when flying the Alunda, the Branthodon, or any standard starship.

It is worth noting at this point that due to the size difference and design paradigm, Menagerie is not compatible with the Alpha Sector. Sure, battles between the two can be waged for fun, but there would be no inherent balance between them.

What type of living organism best compliments the ESG? What living creature would utilize Drones? Disruptors? Plasmas? Fusion Beams? The Web? Cloaking Device? How do these living starships employ Fighters? Fast Patrol Ships? How does Boarding work? Is it even possible? What are their Starbases like? Their Base Stations? The answers to these questions will drive the formation of Menagerie and its many unique empires.

By Norman Dizon (Normandizon) on Friday, June 14, 2019 - 08:01 pm: Edit

BLACK WOLF - COMMONWEALTH JOURNAL
STARDATE 06.14.19
Link to previous Black Wolf Journals


The Freighter sat motionless on the view screen like a dead fish floating in a still pond. Captain Lupinus, Mother Bethany, Trentelifyn, and Bulwark studied it carefully, hoping it would reveal a deep, dark secret. But the ship just sat there in space, taunting them, daring them to explore further in order to obtain the answers they sought.

"Still no response to all hails, Mum?" Captain Lupinus asked his Communications Officer. Several creases lined his brow. Mother Bethany sensed his tension.

"I'm afraid not, Captain," Chrysanthemum answered sadly. The living plant from Chloris wished she had better news for Talbot. "Something strange has definitely happened to the Cerebellum. Maybe there's no one left on board who can answer us?"

"Mother Bethany?" Talbot inquired, turning to his First Officer. Just being near her gave him comfort.

The Saint from Vatica closed her eyes. After a long moment, she opened her eyes and said, "Captain, I don't sense the thoughts of the crew. Or any emotions. But there is something alive over there. Exactly what, I cannot say. It's like no other emanations I've ever felt before." She stared back at Talbot with love in her eyes.

Talbot activated his intercom to talk to his Transporter Chief. "Aleeva, can you transport a party over to the Cerebellum?"

"I wish I could, Captain Lupinus," the Blind Gazer stated. "The Freighter is emitting too much radiation. I'm not sure what's causing it, but it's not safe to transport over. You'll have to take a shuttle." Aleeva kept checking all of her Transporter controls without using her eyesight.

A quick press of a button switched the intercom from the Transporter to Research and Development. "Eyeball, have you finished the Sight to Sight Displacement Device yet?"

"The device is still in the experimental stage, Captain," the Cyclopean in charge of R&D replied. "I wouldn't recommend to use it. The last object I tested it on came through inside out."

Captain Lupinus frowned as he switched off the intercom. He glanced at Mother Bethany who nodded back.

"We're going over there," Captain Lupinus announced confidently. He turned to his Security Chief. "Bulwark, have six of your best Security Officers ready to join us. We have to be ready for trouble, if it finds us."

"Yes sir!" Bulwark said, his four arms checking all the equipment he was currently carrying. Bulwark was the only Grex serving in the Commonwealth. After a quick check, Bulwark exited the Bridge to gather his Officers.

"Trent, you'll have to stay here," Talbot said to his Ambassador. "As you can see, this isn't the time for diplomacy." The tall Sidhe acknowledged his Captain silently. His large bat wings curled around his body protectively.

"Mother Bethany, you're in command. We'll stay in constant communication with the Black Wolf. If you fail to hear from us, send a second shuttle to investigate. But make sure you still sense our thoughts before risking anyone else."

Mother Bethany had a worried look on her face as she took the Captain's Chair. She said goodbye to Talbot telepathically. "Gwich, bring the Black Wolf in closer to the Cerebellum. I don't want the shuttle to have to travel far."

"Yes, maam," the Gitxl Navigator said as he operated his controls. His large totem head stared up at the view screen as the Black Wolf slowly inched forward. The Freighter seemed to get larger and larger.

"Elly, prepare a Tractor Beam," Mother Bethany told her Helmsman. "I want it ready in case of emergency. And keep running continuous scans. Inform me the instant anything out of the ordinary shows up."

"As you command," Eleanor replied. The Inertian Clone was already programming her station to do as she was told.

Captain Lupinus walked over to his Science Officer. He put his hand on his shoulder. "Simon, I'm going to need you over there. Not just for your scientific insight. Your magical abilities might come in handy as well."

The purple robed Science Officer from the Magisterium rose from his chair to face Talbot. Blue magical symbols decorated his robe in specific areas. A purple hood covered most of his head. "It would be my pleasure, Captain. I thought you had forgotten me."

Talbot smiled as he turned to exit the Bridge. He paused to take one last look at the Bridge of the Black Wolf. Mother Bethany glanced back at him. His black eyes locked onto her blue eyes. No further words were necessary between the two.

Then Captain Lupinus left the Bridge with Simon at his side.

By Garth L. Getgen (Sgt_G) on Saturday, June 15, 2019 - 02:55 pm: Edit

Ooooh, a cliff-hanger. I like it.


Garth L. Getgen

By Norman Dizon (Normandizon) on Saturday, June 15, 2019 - 07:33 pm: Edit

BLACK WOLF - COMMONWEALTH JOURNAL
STARDATE 06.15.19
Link to previous Black Wolf Journals


The Shuttle docked with the Freighter known as the Cerebellum without incident. The Away Party consisted of Captain Lupinus, Simon, Doctor Bumble, Bulwark, and his six Security Officers, Peterson, Myers, Hamilton, Franklin, Wright, and Gomez.

The Away Party carefully stepped onto the Cerebellum for the first time. The air was stale, like a tomb that had been opened after being sealed for hundreds of years. Tricorders beeped and flashed as the party began preliminary scans of the vessel.

"Life Support and Main Power seem to be functional, Captain," Simon informed Talbot while staring at his Tricorder. The Tricorder hung from his shoulder by a sturdy black strap. "However, I'm not detecting any life signs. Perhaps we can find more answers on the Bridge."

"Talbot, the crew may have died from an unknown disease," Doctor Bumble stated with a flutter of her yellow transparent wings. The Insecta Doctor stared at the Security Officers with her two yellow oversized compound eyes. "I recommend to exercise extreme caution when handling any bodies. No flesh to flesh contact. Upon return to the Black Wolf, each of us needs to undergo thorough scans for contamination."

"Agreed," Captain Lupinus replied, looking about the Cerebellum with a hard stare. There were many things that could have killed the crew, if in fact, they are all dead. We shouldn't jump to any conclusions. "Bulwark, Gomez, and Wright, head to Engineering and check the status of the Warp Drive. Franklin and Hamilton, go to Medical and search for any signs that they were fighting a plague of any sort. Peterson and Myers, I want a complete search of the Cerebellum, room by room, section by section. Look for clues explaining what happened here. Report anything you find immediately. Simon and Doctor Bumble, you're with me. Let's check the Bridge."

The Away Team split up, each member moving carefully towards their assigned destination. It didn't take long for Bulwark and his team to reach Engineering while Captain Lupinus, Simon, and Doctor Bumble stepped onto the Bridge. Both teams were shocked by their discoveries.

Littered throughout Engineering and the Bridge were the bodies of dead crew members. The position of the bodies indicated a condition of fright, as if they were trying to escape with their lives. Some of them had tried to fight with phasers still in their hand. Apparently, to no avail. The stench of death was strong, indicating the crew had been dead for some time. The Freighter Captain still sat in his chair, completely lifeless, like a ghost haunting his ship.

Quickly, Doctor Bumble rushed to examine several of the victims. All of the dead bodies had the same, evident cause of death. A large hole on the top of their skull, measuring roughly six inches wide. It was a ghastly sight. Doctor Bumble ran her scans and then turned to Captain Lupinus to report.

"They're All Dead, Talbot."

"EACH ONE OF THEM HAS HAD THEIR BRAINS SUCKED OUT."

By Norman Dizon (Normandizon) on Sunday, June 16, 2019 - 07:55 pm: Edit

BLACK WOLF - COMMONWEALTH JOURNAL
STARDATE 06.16.19
Link to previous Black Wolf Journals


"AAAAARRRRRRGGGGGGGGGGHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!!!!

"MYERS!! PETERSON!! MYERS!! PETERSON!! REPORT!"

Captain Lupinus contacted Security Officers Myers and Peterson to check on the status of their room by room search. In the middle of the conversation, something attacked the two of them, something huge and deadly. They didn't spot it until it was right upon them. Perhaps it was hiding in a secret location waiting for them to approach. Whatever happened, Talbot lost contact with both of them moments later.

"Bulwark," Captain Lupinus said hastily as he contacted his Chief of Security. "Get your team back to the shuttle on the double! Whatever killed the crew is still on board the Cerebellum. It just attacked Myers and Peterson. They're not responding."

"Understood, Captain," Bulwark replied over the Communicator. "We're on our way. Wait, there's something else with us in Engineering...by the Black God of Death!! Gomez, Wright! Get back! Quickly, to the shuttle!! Let's...***"

"Bulwark? Bulwark!!"

Captain Lupinus rushed to leave the Bridge of the Cerebellum. In mid-run, he yelled, "Simon! Doctor Bumble! We have to get to the shuttle right away!! Hurry!" As if anticipating his command, Simon and Doctor Bumble ran only a few steps behind Talbot.

Within moments, they were within sight of the hatch leading out to the shuttle. Down the hallway, there were sounds of phaser fire and screaming. Bulwark came charging down the hallway, his four arms rotating back and forth in a smooth running fashion. Behind him were Gomez and Wright with phasers in hand. Both Security Officers were glancing behind them constantly as if something was chasing them.

And then it appeared, materializing out of thin air. A gigantic alien creature resembling a starfish with eight spiked tentacles. A large mouth in its center opened constantly, hungry to taste its prey. The creature easily scaled the walls and the ceiling, making its movement unpredictable. Oddly, it left no trail as it moved swiftly after Bulwark and his team. Only a strange sucking noise could be heard coming from its center mouth which kept opening and closing.

Gomez and Wright spun around to do their job. They pointed their phasers at the creature and fired with the weapons set to kill. Red beams of light shot out, directly striking the creature in its center body. To their horror, the alien beast was hardly shaken. In response to the assault, it swung four tentacles in a criss-cross pattern, cutting Gomez and Wright to pieces. Quickly, it jumped onto their heads and, after attaching its large mouth to their skulls, sucked out their brains.

Furious at the death of his Security Officers, Bulwark charged the alien starfish yelling a Grex battlecry. He fired two phasers with two of his arms while the other two arms hacked at the beast with jagged swords. Green blood flew into the air as two tentacles were sliced off from the creature's main body. Bulwark fought like a madman entranced in a battle frenzy. He was completely oblivious to anything except the monster that had slain his men right before his eyes.

Then a giant Black Wolf jumped in-between Bulwark and the alien creature. With its hind legs, the Wolf kicked Bulwark down the corridor. At the same time, the huge Black Wolf bit and tore at the monster, keeping it at bay.

Quickly, Simon and Doctor Bumble restrained Bulwark, snapping him back to reality.

"Come to your senses, Grex Warrior!" Doctor Bumble yelled with an insectine accent. "Captain Lupinus wants us to retreat to the shuttle NOW! Your men are dead!! Dying now will not bring them back to life! Hurry, through the hatch and into the shuttle! Captain Lupinus will be right behind us."

Bulwark and Doctor Bumble hurried through the hatch. Simon turned to check on Captain Lupinus. The Black Wolf bit savagely into one of the monster's tentacles before turning to leap away. As the Wolf jumped, two tentacles caught it and wrapped around it. The Black Wolf struggled to break free, but the monster's grip was too strong.

Muttering ancient incantations, Simon motioned with his hands to weave a spell. The blue magical symbols on his purple robe lit up bright. With a final release, Simon opened his hands toward the beast. Strands of webbing shot out, ensnaring the monster. In seconds, the alien creature was bound tightly in a spider's web. The Black Wolf seized the moment to free itself and run to Simon's side.

"Hurry, Captain!" Simon yelled, straining to maintain his spell. "The webbing won't hold the monster for long. Even now, it is breaking free!"

Captain Lupinus transformed back to his human form and leaped through the hatch. Simon followed. Without further delay, the shuttle detached from the Cerebellum and sped toward the Black Wolf. Captain Lupinus, Simon, Doctor Bumble, and Bulwark breathed a sigh of relief.

Later, aboard the Black Wolf, Captain Lupinus stared at the Cerebellum on the view screen. The freighter stared back at him, seemingly laughing at his attempt to explore its depths. Talbot grumbled to himself.

"What is it, Captain?" Mother Bethany asked, concerned about Talbot. "Have you decided what to do next?"

"I should fire the Scatterguns and blow that freighter to Kingdom Come," Talbot said in response to Mother Bethany. "But that creature. It's like nothing the Commonwealth has ever seen before. The way it appeared from thin air seemed to suggest it could cloak itself. And our sensors could not pick it up either. It was highly resistant to phaser fire. Yes, it was savage and vicious as well. But it may have just been an animal following its instincts. Would you fault an animal for trying to eat? We have no way of knowing if it was intelligent. If I blow up the Cerebellum right now, we'll never know. But if I don't, someone else might lose their life on that ship."

"Killing such a beast would be an affront to science," Simon said to Captain Lupinus from his work station. "Let the Commonwealth send a team to investigate. Prepared with the information we have provided, they should be able to subdue the creature. Then they can take it to the nearest starbase to study it. The alien creature is obviously unable to leave the freighter, otherwise it would have done so long before our arrival."

"Destroy it now, Captain" Bulwark recommended with hate in his voice. "For the lives of the men who gave their lives. Fire and kill the beast before it harms anyone else. Remember the sacrifice of Myers, Peterson, Gomez, and Wright. Don't let their deaths be for nothing."

Captain Lupinus sat in silence. Finally, he made his decision.

"We'll leave the Cerebellum intact for the Commonwealth to retrieve. Simon is right. Our mission is to seek out new life. Well, we found it. Yes, it's dangerous and deadly, but it's still new life. The proper science team will study that creature and, if possible, communicate with it. It may be highly intelligent for all we know. If we destroy the alien monster now, we'll be acting purely out of emotion."

Turning to Bulwark, Captain Lupinus added, "And Bulwark. Your men didn't die for nothing. They gave their lives in service to the Commonwealth. They did their duty. Their sacrifice will never be forgotten. By me or the Commonwealth."

Bulwark nodded before looking down towards the ground in sorrow.

Meanwhile, aboard the Cerebellum, the alien creatures spoke to each other with great excitement. Their tentacles whirled about their bodies as their mouths made strange sucking noises. They had found a new source of food and were overjoyed at the prospect. There were over fifty of the monsters scattered throughout the Cerebellum, with more hatching every day.

As the Black Wolf sped away from the Cerebellum at warp speed, a cloaked beast carefully crawled down from the exterior roof of the shuttle. There was plenty of food on this new ship.

And it was HUNGRY.

By Norman Dizon (Normandizon) on Tuesday, June 18, 2019 - 04:58 am: Edit

BLACK WOLF - COMMONWEALTH JOURNAL
STARDATE 06.18.19
Link to previous Black Wolf Journals


Bulwark fought savagely against four robot opponents. Again and again, he struck with his scimitar, dagger, machete, and long sword. Yet despite his best efforts, he was losing the battle. Bulwark was breathing hard, much earlier than his normal sessions. And this was one of the lowest settings for this training sequence.

In his mind, Bulwark could see Gomez's face when he lost his life. Wright's body being slashed to ribbons flashed vividly. Then there were the bodies of Myers and Peterson that they passed in the hallway as they ran from the cloaked creature. Their faces petrified in a look of horror from having their brains sucked out.

A metal fist struck Bulwark directly in the jaw. A robotic kick caught him in the ribs. Two more strikes followed, sending Bulwark to the ground. Automatically, the four robots deactivated. The training sequence ended.

Bulwark sat on the ground, his face bloody and his body beaten. He struggled to rise to his feet, but he found that he could not. The memories of Gomez, Wright, Myers, and Peterson kept replaying over and over in his head.

At that moment, Athena, Alpha of the Wolf Pack, entered the Training Center. The nine foot tall Acryan carried her energy spear and unbreakable tower shield. Light armor covered her bronze body, revealing her many scars and two tattoos. She walked directly over to Bulwark without saying a word.

Athena stared down at Bulwark with her four eyes. Bulwark looked upward from his sitting position, clearly annoyed. "Do you need something Athena?" he said bluntly. "I'm in the middle of a training session."

"Yes," Athena responded in a mocking voice. "I need a real warrior. But all I see is a Coward."

Bulwark jumped to his feet. He flashed his four weapons menacingly toward Athena.

"What did you call me?" Bulwark asked, challenging Athena to say it again.

Suddenly, Athena slapped Bulwark hard across the face. He was so shocked, she had time to deliver a second slap with her other hand.

Frenzied, Bulwark charged at Athena, his four blades intent to slash her body to pieces. But she was not there. Athena had flipped over him as he lunged forward. She was now behind him.

Quickly, Bulwark spun around, his scimitar slicing where Athena's head should have been. But once again it was not there. Athena crouched low and delivered a thrust of her own. Bulwark felt Athena's energy spear piece his abdomen. He did not cry out. In fact, the blow simply angered Bulwark even more.

Bulwark kicked with his closest foot, but Athena parried the attack with her left hand. Down came Bulwark's machete and long sword, only to be blocked by Athena's tower shield. Bulwark stabbed with his dagger, but Athena grabbed his arm with her right hand.

With a swift twist, Athena used her leverage to throw Bulwark sideways. He landed hard, completely unprepared for the throw. The second he rose to his feet, Athena was upon him. Two blunt blows from her energy spear struck the sides of his head, followed by a direct smash from her tower shield. Reeling from the strikes, Bulwark struggled to stay on his feet. He was dizzy and his eyes unfocused. Athena jumped in the air, performing an elegant spinning kick. Her bronze foot landed directly on Bulwark's jaw. The next thing Bulwark knew, he was on his back. His four weapons lay scattered on the ground close to him. Bulwark attempted to rise with all of his strength, but his body refused to let him. He clenched his sharp teeth in frustration.

"Yes!" Athena said in a loud voice, shaking her fist violently. "That is the fury you must feel within your soul! The burning spirit of a warrior, that will never surrender! You should have crushed those four robot opponents, yet you fell like a rank amateur. That is not worthy of the Chief of Security for the Black Wolf. And why? Because you blame yourself for the deaths of your four Security Officers!!"

Bulwark said nothing. Even in his dazed state, he knew she was right. It was his fault they all died aboard the Cerebellum.

"What happened when you faced a superior adversary, Bulwark?" Athena asked, referring to their recent battle. "Did you not struggle against me with all of your might, yet still taste defeat? Did you not do all that you could do, and still lost? What more do you expect of yourself?"

Athena took a moment to sling her tower shield over her back, followed by her energy spear. The Acryan was completely unscathed by their conflict. She flipped her black braided hair once to set it back into position. She was beautiful and deadly at the same time.

Then Athena pulled Bulwark to his feet.

"Bulwark, there are times when we cannot win the battle. The adversary may too strong, too cunning, or too experienced. I know that I will face such an opponent one day. In such a situation, all we can do is try our hardest. Give our all, so that we can fall in battle with no regret. And if you lead others into the contest, and they fall by your side, then that was their choice. They decided to follow you, to give up their lives for a higher cause, to die with honor. Just because the enemy was greater than you doesn't mean that you were responsible for their deaths."

Bulwark listened intently, his gaze meeting Athena's eyes directly.

"I heard about this beast you faced. It was a fearsome predator, one which showed no mercy. I wish Captain Lupinus had brought the Wolf Pack. We would have matched cruelty with cruelty. But you fought bravely, Bulwark. You did everything you could do for Gomez, Wright, Myers, and Peterson."

A look of surprise flashed across Bulwark's face. Athena stared at him with her four eyes.

"Yes, I know their names. The Wolf Pack and I burned a tribute to them, so that their souls would be honored. We remember every individual that gave their life for the Black Wolf."

Athena reached out and put her hand on Bulwark's shoulder. For several silent moments, she stared directly into his eyes like a lion.

"Come. There is nothing more to be said about this matter. You are every bit the fierce warrior that I imagined you to be. It was my honor to face you in combat this day. I thank you for the opportunity."

Then the two of them left the Training Center. Bulwark felt his resolve returning inside of him.

The memories of Gomez, Wright, Myers, and Peterson haunted him no longer.

By Norman Dizon (Normandizon) on Tuesday, June 18, 2019 - 02:37 pm: Edit

GENERAL WAR OMEGA
Link to General War Omega

General War Omega is a Parallel Dimension that developed along nearly identical lines to Omega. However, there is one major difference between this familiar yet different reality and the Omega Sector. General War Omega features a Balance of Power, an Arms Race, firmly Established Borders, a Neutral Zone, and, eventually, a General War that breaks out between the entrenched empires.

Of course, General War Omega will present all new empires which utilize Omega technology. These new empires will have different names, different biologies, and different backgrounds from Omega. Furthermore, since the empires of General War Omega have much more stability than the Omega Sector, there should be more balance between them, both in terms of individual starships and overall fleets. Bordering empires will be used to fighting each other and will have developed appropriate countermeasures against their enemies. I have no doubt that the SSD's for General War Omega will turn out quite different from the SSD's of the Omega Sector.

The Map for General War Omega already exists in rough draft form. It is based on the Alpha Sector Map, with substitutions for the Omega-like empires. Some of these changes were obvious. The "Maesron" will replace the "Federation." The "Trobrin" will take the place of the "Gorns." And the "Loriyill" will exist where the "Tholians" currently are. Other empires were not so obvious, so I had to make my own decisions about their placement. One consideration was which empires would eventually ally with one another when the General War broke out.

The Phasers of Omega presents a problem for General War Omega. There needs to be Balance between the empires of General War Omega. This will be extremely difficult if all the Phasers have a wide range of varying damage, range brackets, and advantages/disadvantages (ECM, etc.). One of the reasons the Alpha Sector is Balanced is because all the empires use the same Phasers. What I will probably do is use only a certain selection of Omega Phasers (like the Wide Phaser) and leave out the more radical and extreme Omega Phasers.

Drones were another consideration for General War Omega. To make the galaxy more like the Alpha Sector, I initially thought that Drones needed to be added. But upon further thought, I decided against it, mostly in order to retain the "flavor" of the Omega Sector. This aspect alone will make General War Omega much different than the Alpha Sector. Of course, Tachyon Missiles will still employed by the "Maesron" and other empires. Every empire will also possess Starbases, Base Stations, Fast Patrol Ships, and Fighters.

There is the possibility that New Technology will be included in General War Omega. The reason for this is because bordering empires have grown accustomed to each other and learned to counter each other's tactics. And there is an ever increasing arms race. So it makes sense that some New Technology would be developed, something that would not have occurred in the erratic and unpredictable Omega Sector. Just how powerful these New Technologies will be, we have yet to see. They might be extremely minor in function or very powerful.

Lastly, what Enemies will the empires of General War Omega face in the course of its Timeline? Will their be an "ISC" that Demands Peace from everyone? Will there be "Andromedan Invaders" who mysteriously attack all the empires at once? Or should General War Omega feature an All-New Enemy, something previously unheard of before? Perhaps there are Multiple Enemies who attack all at once? And if that happens, do some of the empires of General War Omega ally with the attackers to put their own selfish interests ahead of the welfare of the entire galaxy?

General War Omega will be an intriguing new galaxy to develop and explore. It should be noted that there are clear differences between Project-O (formerly Omega Regenesis) and General War Omega, although both galaxies focus on attaining Balance in Design. Project-O features a galaxy that has been ripped apart by a Subspace Ragnarok. The empires of Project-O have to contend with the Scions of Scon who return to claim vengeance. The Alpha Colonies are Thirteen Colonies that have established themselves in Project-O after coming through a Wormhole. Compared to the Design Paradigm that I have already laid out above for General War Omega, it is easy to see that Project-O, while similar, is something entirely different.

By Norman Dizon (Normandizon) on Tuesday, June 18, 2019 - 02:44 pm: Edit

INSECTUM
Link to Insectum

I failed to notice that the galaxy known as Insecta (formerly the Magnesia Galaxy) had the same name as an empire in Project-Y, the Insecta Imperium. While I know the difference, this could potentially cause confusion for someone in the future.

For this reason, I renamed to Insecta (Magnesia Galaxy) to Insectum. The Insecta Imperium of Project-Y will retain its original name.

By Norman Dizon (Normandizon) on Tuesday, June 18, 2019 - 03:14 pm: Edit

NEO ALPHA AND NEO OMEGA
Link to Neo Alpha
Link to Neo Omega

The original plan for Playtest Ships was to test them against the appropriate galaxy (either the Alpha Sector or the Omega Sector) and then place them in either Aadi (Alpha Sector-type New Empires) or Antim (Omega Sector-type New Empires).

The plan worked well for the Haylon, who were playtested against several Alpha Sector empires (Fed, Klingon, Kzinti, Gorn). Changes were discovered and implemented. Then the Haylon were placed in Aadi.

The plan also worked well for the Geist, who were playtested against several Omega Sector empires (Vari, Trobrin, Maesron, Koligahr, Loriyill). Changes were discovered and implemented. Then the Geist were placed in Antim.

But as I gave this process more thought, it became apparent that the whole idea didn't make much sense. The reason why is because, technically, Every Empire on CodexIchaborn.Com (i.e. in the Genesis Galaxies) is still in "Playtest Mode." This means that any empire can be modified at any time. At no time is an empire "Finalized." So if every empire is subject to playtest at any time, there is no need to go through the rigid "playtesting process" as noted above. Even if an empire is placed in Aadi or Antim, it can still be playtested and modified based on those playtest results.

The whole idea of "Playtest Ships" is a Category on CodexIchaborn.Com that will no longer be used.

Additionally, the galaxy names of Aadi (Alpha Sector-type Ships) and Antim (Omega Sector-type Ships) were unclear. While they were crystal clear to me, I could easily see someone else misunderstanding those names (or not knowing what they were).

For this reason, I renamed Aadi to Neo Alpha and Antim to Neo Omega. This makes those two galaxies (and their intent) much more clear. Currently, there is only one empire in each. The Haylon exist in Neo Alpha and the Geist have been placed in Neo Omega. Obviously, starships in Neo Alpha follow the Alpha Sector Design Paradigm, while starships in Neo Omega follow the Omega Sector Design Paradigm.

As new empires are drawn up, they will be placed directly in either Neo Alpha or Neo Omega. These new ships will still be (continuously) playtested and then changed according to those playtest results.

By Norman Dizon (Normandizon) on Wednesday, June 19, 2019 - 03:35 am: Edit

KZINTI STRIKE CRUISER VS FEDERATION HEAVY CRUISER

PLAY THE BATTLE!!

By Norman Dizon (Normandizon) on Thursday, June 20, 2019 - 09:11 pm: Edit

BLACK WOLF - COMMONWEALTH JOURNAL
STARDATE 06.20.19
Link to previous Black Wolf Journals


Eleanor walked into the Mess Hall. The Black Wolf's Helmsman was feeling melancholy and it showed on her face. With a hunched posture, she wandered through the doorway like she had just received a bit of terrible news. As usual, waiting behind the counter was Aodon, the Black Wolf's Chef.

"Elly!" Aodon said with glee. The humanoid fish was always in a cheerful mood. "Happy Birthday! It is your Birthday, isn't it?"

"Don't remind me," Eleanor replied in a monotone voice. She sat down at one of the many circular tables in the Mess Hall. "Yes, I'm a year older. The thing is, I'm not sure if it's really my Birthday. It sure doesn't feel like it."

"I don't understand," Aodon said while his yellow spotted cheeks expanded and then deflated. "I thought Birthdays were happy occasions. But you sure don't look happy. How could you not know if it was your Birthday or not? Isn't today the correct date?"

"Yes, yes," Eleanor grumbled, annoyed at having to explain herself. She preferred to be left alone to her sorrows. The Helmsman adjusted her long orange hair which was currently tied above her head. She stared momentarily at the short humanoid fish who was eagerly awaiting her response.

"You see, all of us Inertians are Clones of the originals. The original Eleanor died thousands of years ago. But her genetic pattern was stored in our Bank, which we use to create new generations of Clones. There have been countless Eleanors since the original, and I am just the latest Clone. So, yes, today is the original Eleanor's Birthday. I have memories of her celebrating her Birthday with her original family. But is it really MY Birthday?"

Aodon paused as he contemplated what Eleanor had told him. His cheeks puffed in and out quietly. Then he looked at Eleanor sympathetically with his large round fish eyes and said, "Isn't it true that each Clone forms its own memories from its life experiences? I mean, that's what you told me once, isn't it? Which means that each Eleanor, even though there have been many, has had its own unique life. So even if you are a Clone of the original Eleanor, you are still one-of-a-kind, with special memories that only you have. Am I wrong?"

Eleanor sat in silence. She shook her head without saying anything.

"Was the original Eleanor the Helmsman of the Black Wolf? I doubt it. Did the original Eleanor know a Chef named Aodon? I suspect not. And did the original Eleanor love Tarasplendor Marble Pie with Whip Cream on Top?"

Eleanor was shocked by Aodon's last statement. "You remember that?"

"Of course, Elly!" Aodon said in a jovial voice. He waved his fins about in excitement. "In fact, I happen to have some waiting for you in the back. But I'll only bring it out if you promise me that you feel better. Do you?"

Eleanor smiled enthusiastically. "I promise!"

"Ok then..." Aodon answered, standing on the tip of his tail fin. He clapped his upper fins together three times and whistled loudly. Suddenly, the lights dimmed in the Mess Hall. Eleanor looked around her in suspense.

Out came the Tarasplendor Marble Pie with Whip Cream on Top. There were a set of burning candles embedded in the Whip Cream waiting to be blown out. The Pie was being carried in by a large group of people, nearly every crew member of the Black Wolf by Eleanor's estimation. Or at least, as many of the crew as could fit in the Mess Hall. They set the Tarasplendor Marble Pie with Whip Cream on Top directly in front of Eleanor.

Eleanor looked up at everyone completely embarrassed. She had not expected anyone to remember her Birthday, much less the entire crew. Elly looked up thankfully at Aodon, who she was sure organized this whole event.

Loud singing erupted in the Mess Hall as all the crew members began singing Happy Birthday to Eleanor. When they were finished, she carefully blew out all the candles. Everyone laughed and clapped their hands.

And for the first time that day, Eleanor actually felt like it was HER Birthday.

By Norman Dizon (Normandizon) on Friday, June 21, 2019 - 04:09 am: Edit

TACTICAL ANALYSIS
GENESIS GALAXY: PROJECT-X
STARSHIP: REPUBLIC FIRST CRUISER
Link to the Republic First Cruiser SSD
Link to more Tactical Analysis

While BPV provides a good measure of a starship, I prefer to use a Tactical Analysis when comparing starships to one another. Yes, you can refer to Annexes, create Charts, or delve even deeper into the Tactical Details, but this summary suits my needs.

WEAPONS

HEAVY WEAPONS: 2 x Kinetic Torpedoes (FA)
PHASERS: 4 x PH-5 (FA), 1 x PH-5 (L), 1 x PH-5 (R)

DEVICES

NONE

ALPHA STRIKE (ON SUCCESSFUL HITS)(FREQUENCY: EVERY OTHER TURN)

(FA) R 1-2: 20 + 16-4 = 36-24
(L OBLIQUE) R 1-2: 20 + 20-5 = 40-25
(R OBLIQUE) R 1-2: 20 + 20-5 = 40-25

MID-RANGE (ON SUCCESSFUL HITS)(FREQUENCY: EVERY OTHER TURN)

(FA) R 3-4: 20 + 12-4 = 32-24
(L OBLIQUE) R 3-4: 20 + 15-5 = 35-25
(R OBLIQUE) R 3-4: 20 + 15-5 = 35-25

(FA) R 5-8: 14 + 12-4 = 26-18
(L OBLIQUE) R 5-8: 14 + 15-5 = 29-19
(R OBLIQUE) R 5-8: 14 + 15-5 = 29-19

NOTES:

1) Standard Kinetic Torpedoes cannot fire at Range 0 (Non-Overloaded)
2) Phaser-V's have No Capacitor during the First Era

POWER CURVE

WARP: 14
IMPULSE: 4
APR: 1
TOTAL POWER: 19
BATTERIES: 2

OTHER

INTERNALS: 44
SHIELDS: 12/10/8/6/8/10
SHUTTLES: 2
TURN MODE: D
MOVEMENT COST: 1

By Norman Dizon (Normandizon) on Saturday, June 22, 2019 - 12:06 pm: Edit

BLACK WOLF - COMMONWEALTH JOURNAL
STARDATE 06.22.19
Link to previous Black Wolf Journals


"Hard to port!!" Talbot yelled.

The Black Wolf veered suddenly, only to be intercepted once again by a strange ball of light. There seemed to be an intelligence behind it, as it had anticipated every move the Black Wolf had made to get away from it. Still, it had made no hostile gestures up to this point, except to follow the Black Wolf closely, at times even blocking its path.

"Hard to starboard!!" Captain Lupinus ordered. He held onto his Captain's Chair tightly, hoping for a different outcome to this action. Mother Bethany sat next to him, staring intently at the glowing ball on the view screen.

Quickly, the ball of light moved to block the Black Wolf's path. It was much swifter than the Black Wolf, clearly capable of speeds far beyond the Black Wolf's warp drive.

"Mother Bethany?" Talbot asked, turning toward his First Officer. "Do you sense anything from it?" Captain Lupinus stroked his black goatee out of habit while waiting for her response.

Mother Bethany closed her eyes. Her pure white hair dangled gently past her shoulders, drawing Talbot's attention. After a few moments, the Saint of Vadica opened her eyes and stared lovingly at Captain Lupinus.

"It is alive, that's for certain," Mother Bethany explained. Her blue eyes locked onto Talbot's black eyes. "But it's a form of life like nothing I have ever encountered before. I'm not sure if we can even communicate with it. I don't sense any anger or malice coming from it. More like...curiosity."

Talbot tapped his finger in frustration. He spun around in his chair to face his Communications Officer.

"Mum, still no response to our hails?"

Captain Lupinus already knew the answer, but he was compelled to ask anyway.

"I'm afraid not," Chrysanthemum answered. The orange humanoid flower had a silver device sticking out of her petal. "I've tried all frequencies. No reply from the energy orb at all."

Captain Lupinus pressed a button on his Captain's Chair to contact Engineering. "Smithy, I need more speed out of the Black Wolf. What can you do for me?"

"I'm giving you all she's got!" Hephaestus answered loudly over the Intercom. The bearded Dollfolk Engineer was clearly stressed. "The Warp Drive's already running red hot from all this running and chasing about. Why not simply blast the thing and be done with it?"

Captain Lupinus had already considered that option. But he had to explore every other avenue first.

"Simon, what can you tell me about it?" Talbot asked his Magisterium Science Officer. Simon stared into a binocular shaped device before answering. His long purple robe hung loosely from his body. Blue magical symbols decorated the robe.

"I don't have much to report, Captain," Simon stated coldly. "I can tell you what it is not. The object following us is not organic. Nor is it metal. It is not mineral or vegetable. Sensors have not picked up any kind of weaponry from it. The sphere does not emit radiation. I am not detecting any kind of warp emissions. Its method of propulsion is unknown. I simply need more data."

Talbot took in the information and then contacted Research and Development over the Intercom. "Eyeball, is the Spectral Shield ready yet?"

"No, Captain," the Cyclopean reported. "The last test caused the prototype to disappear into Subspace."

Captain Lupinus frowned. He seemed to have little choice left. Mother Bethany already knew what he was about to do before he gave the order. Talbot looked toward his Tactical Officer.

"Icicle, arm the Scatterguns," Captain Lupinus ordered firmly. He had to protect his crew at all costs. Although the Black Wolf hasn't been directly attacked, this globe of energy has blocked their path, restricting their movement. This type of action is inherently hostile, even though no weapons have been fired. "Prepare to fire on my command."

"Aye, Captain," the Glacial Snowman acknowledged from his work station. He rapidly pressed several buttons, preparing the Black Wolf's Scatterguns to fire.

There was a moment of tension on the Bridge of the Black Wolf as everyone waited for Talbot to give the order.

"Fire."

Multiple spheres of charged energy shot out of the Black Wolf in a wide forward pattern. The glowing orb that had been following them was struck directly. It exploded on the view screen in a fiery display of pyrotechnics. Everyone on the Bridge breathed a sigh of relief.

Talbot exhaled calmly. He had no choice. They explored every other option. The life form, whatever it was, failed to communicate with them. Its actions conveyed a sense of hostility. At any moment, the Black Wolf could have been attacked and his crew killed. He had to act to protect them. Still, this outcome was regrettable. He would be sure to note that in his Commonwealth Report.

"Uh...Captain?"

Captain Lupinus turned his head. What he saw shocked him as much as everyone else on the Bridge. Quickly, he rose to his feet. Mother Bethany stood beside him.

A giant woman, standing eight feet tall, composed purely of light, stood on the Bridge. Her long hair glowed transparently like the rest of her body. She looked about, staring carefully at each officer on the Bridge. Finally, she spoke with a voice that crackled like sparks.

"Are you what they call...MORTALS?"

By Garth L. Getgen (Sgt_G) on Saturday, June 22, 2019 - 03:56 pm: Edit

So, not one but two uninvited guests have boarded the Black Wolf? How fun.


Garth L. Getgen

By Norman Dizon (Normandizon) on Saturday, June 22, 2019 - 09:57 pm: Edit

Well, one of them is Cloaked.

By Norman Dizon (Normandizon) on Sunday, June 23, 2019 - 08:18 pm: Edit

BLACK WOLF - COMMONWEALTH JOURNAL
STARDATE 06.23.19
Link to previous Black Wolf Journals


"Yes, we are Mortals," Captain Lupinus answered the alien entity. He motioned for everyone on the Bridge to keep their distance from the woman composed of light. "You are on the Bridge of the Commonwealth Starship known as the Black Wolf. I am Captain Lupinus. We are on a Peaceful Mission to meet Beings such as Yourself. Please tell us, what are you called?"

The eight foot tall illuminous woman thought to herself for a moment, as if trying to remember. Then her voice crackled again as she spoke, "You may call us Tary. Eons ago we were like you. We want to Remember. Will you help us?"

"Of course we will help you," Talbot replied with a smile. "We would like to learn everything we can about you, Tary. How can we be of service?"

There was a flash of light. The next thing Talbot knew, he was in the Recreation Hall with Tary and Mother Bethany. Spread out through the Recreation Hall were crew members who were painting, drawing, singing, playing musical instruments, and dancing. They seemed to be oblivious to the presence of Tary, Captain Lupinus, and Mother Bethany.

"What are they doing?" Tary asked with a tilt of her head. Her long transparent hair glittered like the sun.

"They are engaging in Art," Captain Lupinus explained. "Art is an Expression of the Soul. Sometimes it takes the form of Sounds we can Hear. Sometimes it is shown through Physical Movements. And sometimes we create something for others to See, Touch, or Read. Art allows us to transmit Feelings and Ideas from one person to another in a unique way."

Tary nodded her head in understanding.

In the next moment, Tary, Captain Lupinus, and Mother Bethany were in the Training Center. Athena was engaged in intense combat with three members of the Wolf Pack. Once again, Athena and the others could not see their observers.

Tary had a confused look on her beautiful face. "What are they doing?"

"They are training for combat," Talbot replied. He watched Athena's graceful movements in battle with appreciation. "Sometimes, we Mortals have to defend ourselves from those who do us harm. When other beings would inflict pain and death on us, we have a right to fight for our safety and the safety of those we love. We don't seek to fight, but sometimes we are left with no choice."

Another flash of light. Talbot and Mother Bethany found themselves in the quarters of one of their crew members. The crew member was fast asleep, snoring loudly.

The alien entity motioned with her glowing hand. "What is it doing?"

"Sleeping," Talbot answered. "We Mortals require rest in order to survive. We cannot live without sleeping. It is a time when our body recuperates and regains its strength. Even our brain takes time to rest. We even Dream."

"What does it mean to...Dream?"

Captain Lupinus paused for a moment to consider his response. "A Dream in this sense is a Manifestation of our Subconscious while we Sleep. But Mortals have another kind of Dream. When we say we Dream of something, we mean a Goal we want to achieve that is Nearly Impossible to reach. But we still want to achieve it, with every fiber of our being."

Tary nodded in understanding. Suddenly, the three of them were standing in the Mess Hall. The Mess Hall was full of crew members eating, drinking, and laughing. They could not see the Alien, the Captain, or the First Officer.

"What are they doing?"

Captain Lupinus smiled. "They are Eating. We Mortals require constant sustenance in order to live. This typically takes the form of Food and Water. We absorb the nutrients from the things we consume, fueling our body with energy. Without Food and Drink, we would Perish."

Still another burst of light. Captain Lupinus and Mother Bethany found themselves in the darkened quarters of a crew member. On the bed, the crew member groaned with pleasure along with another crew member.

"What are they doing?" Tary asked inquisitively.

"This is how we Mortals Reproduce," Captain Lupinus explained, slightly embarrassed. Mother Bethany smiled. "Our bodies...Join...with One Another. Later, that Union produces an Offspring. We call it a Baby. That Baby eventually grows into an Adult, like us."

Tary nodded in understanding. She blinked her eyes. Captain Lupinus and Mother Bethany realized they were now in an empty cargo bay.

"Hmmm...there is nothing here to see," Captain Lupinus stated with confusion.

Tary pointed toward one corner of the room, close to the ceiling. A form began to materialize. It was an alien creature full of spikes and shaped like a starfish. The cloaked creature which was now visible did not notice Tary, the Captain, or the First Officer.

"This being would harm your crew," Tary stated, her voice crackling with energy. "Would you like me to remove it from your ship? No harm will come to it."

Captain Lupinus stared in disbelief at the starfish creature that had proven itself to be so deadly in the past. He tried to figure out how it had gotten on board the Black Wolf. He would have to figure it out later. "Yes, Tary. Please remove the creature. We would be in your debt for doing so."

The alien creature vanished as if it was never there. Talbot and Mother Bethany breathed a sigh of relief.

Talbot turned toward Tary. "Is there anything else, Tary? I think you have a pretty good understanding of Mortals now. We are happy to share our experiences with you. This whole interaction has been fascinating for us."

Tary stared at Mother Bethany for several moments without speaking. Mother Bethany began to feel uncomfortable.

"Yes," Tary replied to Captain Lupinus. "There is one more thing. We sense that this creature feels very strongly for you. And you feel equally strongly for it. So much so that both of you are practically One Creature in Totality. We want to understand Death and Loss. Particularly for someone you Love."

Captain Lupinus looked at Mother Bethany. They were both confused by Tary's statement. And Afraid. Very Afraid.

Tary pointed at Mother Bethany.

And Mother Bethany Died.

By Norman Dizon (Normandizon) on Wednesday, June 26, 2019 - 12:53 am: Edit

PLAYTEST REPORT
REPUBLIC FIRST CRUISER VS REGIME FZ4 BATTLECRUISER
PROJECT-X
Link to Republic First Cruiser SSD
Link to Regime FZ4 Battlecruiser SSD
Link to other Playtest Reports

T1
Regime Speed 17. Republic Speed 14. Regime launches 2 Light Missiles. Both ships closing. Turn ends at r14. No shots fired.

T2
Regime launches 2 Light Missiles. Regime Speed 8. Republic Speed 8. Republic shoots down 2 Light Missiles at r1. Republic shoots down 2 more Light Missiles at r1. Regime fires 2 Overloaded Neutron Bolts (1 hit) and 4 PH-7s at r7 doing 12 Damage to Shield 6. Republic uses 2 Batteries and loses Shield 6. Republic fires 2 Overloaded Kinetic Torps at r7. Both hit. Regime loses Shield 6 and uses 2 Batteries. Regime takes 2 Internals. Regime loses 1 Forward Hull and 1 PH-7. Regime turns toward Republic while Republic turns away. Turn ends at r6.

T3
Regime launches 2 Light Missiles. Regime Speed 9. Republic Speed 4. Republic launches Wild Weasel distracting 2 Light Missiles. Republic slowly turning to face Regime. Regime closing in on Republic. Regime fires 2 Overloaded Neutron Bolts (both hit) and 3 PH-7s at r3 doing 16 Damage to Shield 3. Republic loses Shield 3 and takes 8 Internals. Republic loses 2 Aft Hull, 3 Forward Hull, 1 APR, 1 Shuttle and 1 PH-5. Republic fires 1 PH-5 at r3 doing 2 Damage to Shield 1. Republic turns away to protect down Shield 3 while Regime closes. Turns ends at r2. Regime is facing Republic's Shield 4.

T4
Republic repairs 1 Shield box to Shield 6. Republic performs HET to face Regime. Republic would have Broke Down if not for the 1st Time HET Rule. Republic Speed 0. Regime Speed 0. Regime launches 2 Light Missiles. Regime out of Light Missiles with No Reloads! Regime fires 2 Overloaded Neutron Bolts (both hit) and 3 PH-7s at r2 doing 17 Damage to Shield 1. Republic loses Shield 1 and uses 2 Batteries. Republic takes 3 Internals. Republic loses 1 Left Warp, 1 Forward Hull, and 1 Bridge! Republic fires 2 Double Overloaded Kinetic Torpedoes (both hit) and 2 PH-5s at r2 doing 24 Damage to Shield 1. Regime loses Shield 1 and takes 16 Internals. Regime loses 1 Bridge, 1 Forward Hull, 2 Aft Hull, 2 Batteries, 1 Left Warp, 2 Right Warp, 1 Lab, 2 Shuttles, 2 impulse, 1 Light Missile Rack, 1 PH-7. Republic kills 2 Light Missiles with 2 PH-5s at r1. Both ships facing each other at r2 with down Shield 1s.

T5
Regime performs HET and succeeds due to 1st time HET Rule. Regime fresh Shield 2 now facing Republic. Republic performs HET. Republic BREAKS DOWN! Republic loses 1/3 crew units, 1 Left Warp, 1 Right Warp, 1 Kinetic Torpedo! Republic Cannot Fire for 8 impulses! Regime fires 2 Overloaded Neutron Bolts and 3 PH-7's through Republic's down Shield 1 at r2. Republic takes 18 internals.

** REPUBLIC CONCEDES MATCH MID-TURN 5 **

COMMENTS
Pretty evenly matched ships. Republic might have won if he didn't break down. Both ships have enough power even with slower speeds.

By Norman Dizon (Normandizon) on Wednesday, June 26, 2019 - 09:29 pm: Edit

BLACK WOLF - COMMONWEALTH JOURNAL
STARDATE 06.26.19
Link to previous Black Wolf Journals


Talbot held the limp lifeless body of Mother Bethany in his arms. As he stroked her beautiful white hair, tears streamed out of his black eyes, wetting her expressionless face. There was a terrible pain in his chest, like an axe had hacked his heart to pieces, but somehow left him still alive. Grief poured out of his Soul, overflowing into his Body, and corrupting his Mind. Talbot struggled to hold onto reality, but without Mother Bethany, he feared nothing could stop the coming insanity.

Memories raced through Talbot's fractured mind. He remembered meeting Bethany for the first time at Commonwealth Academy. They challenged each other intellectually, talking about command decisions, and he enjoyed every minute of it. Not only was Bethany his equal in the mental arena, but she was beautiful and confident. Talbot had never met anyone like her. And now, she was gone from his life forever.

Did Talbot make a critical error by not having a family with Bethany? He would have had to give up his dream of being a Captain, but it would have been more than worth it. And he would have had to convince Bethany to not become a Saint of Vadica. A difficult task, but not an impossible one, as long as Talbot expressed how much he loved her. The two of them could have left the Commonwealth Academy together, opting to settle down on a distant peaceful planet where they could enjoy their happiness with one another. Talbot imagined their children, the lives that never came to be. There would be boys, and girls as well. Through his children, Talbot would relive his life. He would get to experience everything all over again, this time through their eyes. And Bethany would be there during every step of the journey, experiencing everything by his side. There would be happy times, sad times, and times of struggle. But they would make it through it all together, each one relying on the other for strength when their own was not enough. And eventually, in due time, they would grow old together and watch their children become adults with families of their own.

Now all these things were an impossibility.

Tary watched Captain Lupinus with great interest. The tall luminous alien kept her eyes locked on Talbot, as if her penetrating gaze could peer into his Soul.

Talbot looked up at Tary. A great rage began to burn within him. He had done his duty as a Commonwealth Captain, meeting new life and welcoming it on board his ship. He had shown the alien entity common courtesy, answering all of its questions about what it means to be Mortal. And in return, this was the gratitude he received. The woman he loved more than life itself has been taken away from him, for no reason other than to satisfy some sick alien curiosity. Mother Bethany deserved better than that. Talbot had failed her miserably. And he felt sick inside knowing that she should still be alive right now if not for him.

Black hair began to grow all over Talbot's body. Claws extended from his finger tips, while his arms shapechanged into a wolf's fore limbs. A long snout grew from his face, filled with rows of razor sharp fangs. Talbot's whole body grew in size until he was a massive Black Wolf. He roared in fury at Tary, who stood motionless looking at him. Talbot crouched his wolfen form and prepared to leap at Tary in a deadly assault.

But something stopped Talbot. A tear had formed in Tary's eye. It slowly slid down her glowing cheek, as if Time itself had slowed down. The alien was experiencing some kind of emotion, perhaps compassion, or maybe sadness. Whatever it was, it was enough to halt Talbot's charge and calm his inner rage. Without knowing it, Talbot reverted back to his human body. He stared at Tary, wondering what it must be like to have evolved into such an advanced form.

Tary pointed at Mother Bethany's dead body. Talbot watched in disbelief as she began to breathe again. Her chest slowly rose and fell, drawing in oxygen. Talbot thanked the Stars, every Divine Being in existence, and even Fate itself. He rushed to her side and clutched her tightly. When Mother Bethany opened her eyes, the first thing she saw was Talbot's loving face staring back at her. Her powers immediately told her what had happened, and she saw in Talbot's mind the family they never had together. Mother Bethany smiled with joy. She gently kissed Talbot on the lips.

"Thank you for allowing us to Remember," Tary said to Talbot and Mother Bethany. "We had Forgotten what it was like to be Mortal. To Sleep, to Dream, to create Art, to Fight, to Eat, to Love, and to Die. We Envy the two of you. Enjoy this Time in your Existence. It is when Life shines the Brightest."

And then Tary disappeared, never to return again.

Left alone in the Cargo Bay, Talbot and Mother Bethany kissed each other passionately, as if he had never become a Commonwealth Captain and she had never become a Saint of Vadica.

By Norman Dizon (Normandizon) on Friday, June 28, 2019 - 01:32 pm: Edit

BLACK WOLF - COMMONWEALTH JOURNAL
STARDATE 06.28.19
Link to previous Black Wolf Journals


Captain Lupinus walked into the Habitat on board the Black Wolf. The Habitat was an ever changing environment, albeit slowly, made specifically for one crew member, the Black Wolf's Counselor. But he doesn't like the official title of Counselor, instead preferring to be called an "Advisor." The Advisor is a Changeling, a being from the Changeling Cluster, a hidden location that is fiercely defended by its unique inhabitants. It is well known that all Changelings can assume the shape of any animal or creature, but never any humanoid.

The Habitat was hot and humid. The locale was reminiscent of a dense jungle. Steam slowly rose from the damp soil, making it difficult to see. There were various animal sounds, but to Captain Lupinus' knowledge, only the Advisor was a resident here. Perhaps he was mistaken.

"Animus?" Talbot said in a loud voice. "Are you here? I need your Wisdom."

There was a pause in the jungle as all the sounds went quiet. Talbot looked around him for any sign of the Advisor. He could see nothing. Then suddenly, he heard a small voice.

"Of course, Captain," a small Gecko said while clinging to a branch. "I am at your service."

Talbot stared at the little creature, always fascinated by what Changelings could do. In a way, Talbot envied them. Captain Lupinus' thoughts quickly returned to the reason why he came.

"Animus, my mind is troubled," Captain Lupinus stated, speaking his mind openly and freely. He completely trusted the Advisor. "Ever since my experience with Tary, and the kiss that Mother Bethany and I shared in the Cargo Bay, I have been confused. I am torn by my responsibility as Captain and my feelings for Bethany. Animus, I almost lost her that day. I don't want to waste any more of life making the wrong decisions. She is all I think about now." Talbot shook his head. He looked demoralized. "Please...help me."

Animus transformed into a purple butterfly. He flew directly in front of Talbot's face.

"You love her, do you not?" Animus asked, his antennae quivering slightly. Animus already knew the answer, but he wanted Talbot to admit it.

"Yes, I know now that I still do," Captain Lupinus confirmed. "With all my Heart."

"But you have attained the rank of Captain, yes?" Animus continued questioning. "You have been given command of the Black Wolf. No small responsibility. You have a duty to your crew that cannot be broken."

"Yes, that is correct," Captain Lupinus answered yet again. This time, his words were hesitant, like he was reluctant to say them. Captain Lupinus was clearly unsure of his role after his encounter with Tary.

Animus shapechanged into a small Koala Bear. He hugged a nearby tree tightly to hold on. He was somehow able to speak English even though he took on different animal forms.

"Then your path is clear, Captain. On one hand, you are the Captain of the Black Wolf. You have a duty to your crew. On the other hand, you love Bethany with all your might. You cannot deny this. To do so would tear up your Soul. So the solution is simple. You must find a way to make the two coexist in peace."

Talbot looked at the Koala Bear with confusion. Sweat dripped down from his black goatee due to the humidity. "But how, Animus? The two are conflicting and incompatible."

"Are they?" Animus answered, transforming into a snake. He wrapped himself around Talbot's left leg. "Have you tried to reconcile the two? Or did you just assume it was impossible? Nothing is impossible, Talbot. But in order for Life to grant you the solution you seek, you have to do your part and Try."

Talbot reached down and picked up the snake that was Animus. He looked into the snake's eyes. Animus shot out his forked tongue three times.

"The crew already knows how you feel. They are not blind, Captain. They see how you look at Mother Bethany and how she looks at you. Even Commonwealth Command knows how you feel. Yet they still allowed Mother Bethany to become your First Officer. Why is that? Because they have confidence in the two of you, Captain. They know you will both do your jobs, despite your feelings for each other. But that does not mean you have to deny who you are and how you feel. In fact, the key to your inner peace lies in acknowledging your emotions and giving in to them, when the time is right."

Animus' words began to make sense. For the first time since his encounter with Tary, Talbot began to have Hope. But the way forward would not be easy. He and Mother Bethany would have to struggle to make things work. But if he gained the slightest bit of time alone with her, it would all be worth it.

Animus changed into a bat. Captain Lupinus let him go to fly freely. "Thank you, Advisor. I am in your Debt." Then Talbot turned to leave the Habitat.

The bat flapped its wings, hovering in one place as it watched Captain Lupinus move toward the exit. "One more thing, Captain. A word of warning for you and Mother Bethany."

"The time will come when you must both answer for how you both feel about each other. It is inevitable. Don't deny those feelings. You will have to justify yourself to Commonwealth Command. And Mother Bethany will have to answer to the Council of Vatica. You won't be able to use Force to win those future battles. Instead, you both must rely on Conviction to win the day. Together, you will be Victorious."

Talbot nodded and then left the Habitat. Animus shapeshifted into a spider. As he began to weave his web in-between two trees, he could not help but to think of his lost love. It has been Centuries since he last saw her. He had warned Talbot not to deny his feelings so that he would not have to experience the same torment that Animus has felt these many long years.

But that is a story for another time.