WATCHER HEAVY PLASMA PROTOTYPE SSD
THE ALL-SEEING WATCHERS
KING ALPHA
Link to the Watcher Heavy Plasma Prototype SSD

(KAR1.2) HEAVY PLASMA PROTOTYPE (CA): In an effort to match the Heavy Plasmas utilized by the Nephilim, the All-Seeing Watchers commissioned the creation of a Unique Prototype. Using the standard Watcher Heavy Cruiser as the mold, the Watchers removed the Two Plasma-F Torpedoes and replaced them with a Single Plasma-R Torpedo.
The Ship had to be heavily modified in order to make room for the installation of the Plasma-R Torpedo. This included the removal of all Aft Hull in order to convert the space to two massive arrays of Auxiliary Power Reactors. Curiously, the newly-installed Plasma-R Torpedo enjoyed a Launching Arc far wider than any known before.
While the Watcher Heavy Plasma Prototype excelled at Energy Generation, a fatal flaw was discovered in relation to the Plasma-R Torpedo. Because of the massive amount of energy needed, and the distinct wiring and circuitry of the original Plasma-F Torpedoes, the Plasma-R Torpedo could not be launched within a set amount of time of the Photon Torpedoes and Disruptors Bolts. The same was true for the Photon Torpedoes and the Disruptor Bolts in relation to the Plasma-R Torpedo. Watcher Engineers determined that the exact amount of time delay was 16 impulses. The Plasma-R Torpedo could not launch within 16 impulses of any firing of Photon Torpedoes or Disruptor Bolts. Likewise, no Photon Torpedo or Disruptor Bolt could fire for 16 impulses after the Plasma-R Torpedo had launched.
This critical Time Delay led to an inability of the Watcher Heavy Plasma Prototype to Concentrate its Fire. While some Watcher Captains tried to work with the deficiency, even developing a set of all-new tactics to make it work, the incapacity to Concentrate its Firepower in a Single Moment led to the Photon Torpedoes and the Disruptor Bolts being fired separately from the Plasma-R Torpedo.
Because of this Critical Flaw, the Watcher Heavy Plasma Prototype was ultimately declared a Failure by the All-Seeing Watchers. Only One Protype was ever produced. It was designated "URIEL."

By Norman Dizon (Ichaborn) on Sunday, August 23, 2020 - 01:22 pm: Edit

REUEL – STARDATE 08.23.20
Link to previous Reuel Chronicles

Captain Cherub flew into Engineering. Within, a full-figured, short, young woman with bright red hair and green eyes worked feverishly on the various systems. She was Isla, the Chief Engineer of the Reuel. But don’t let her natural beauty fool you. Isla was more intelligent than nearly every man she encountered.
“Captain? Ah wasn’t expectin’ you. Ah’m sorry tha’ Engineering is such a mess.” Isla was visibly flustered. Sweat streamed down her brow and she was covered in grime.
“No worries, my Chief Engineer,” the Large Baby with Wings said in a comforting voice. His eyes were filled with understanding. “I know you are working hard on repairing the Reuel . We took quite a beating at the Battle of Heaven’s Gate, didn’t we? You know, your hard work and quick thinking saved us all. I never got to thank you for giving me Reserve Power right when I needed it. You are a real Miracle Worker, Isla.”
Seven Small Robots approached. They began to fly, hover, roll, walk, and jump around Isla. Their displays flashed a variety of colors while they beeped and chirped loudly. Isla sighed. She pointed in different directions and said, “All of ya, get back ta work! Ya know what you’re supposed ta be doing! Now, hop to it!!” The Seven Robots quickly dispersed.
“Ma apologies, Captain,” Isla said with embarrassment. She fixed her red hair to make herself more presentable. Her green eyes followed the Robots, making sure they were doing what they were supposed to be doing. “Ah created a few helpers. Ta my surprise, their Personality Subroutines grew faster than ah expected. They each seem ta have a mind of their own now. They’re like ma Children.”
Captain Cherub giggled with glee. The Large Baby smiled widely. “I see! Isla, you are a Mother now! Please, tell me what their Names are.”
“Duncan, Macbeth, William, Margaret, Malcolm, Edgar, and Alana.”
“How are the repairs going, Isla?”
“Oh, it’s a challenge, that’s fa sure, Captain! First, tha Dynoservos broke. Then tha Hyper Replays became cross-circuited. Add ta that, an eva increasin’ Warp Surge. Not ta mention a Microdyne malfunction. Followed by a meltdown of ah primary Plasma Cubes. But don’t worry, Captain! Ah’ve got it all unda control.”
“I have no doubt, my Chief Engineer. You have my complete Faith.”
Captain Cherub had a basic familiarity with the Engineering Systems, but much of what Isla told him was beyond his comprehension. But he had no fear. A Captain should rely on his Chief Engineer to handle the more technical aspects of the ship. And Captain Cherub believed in Isla wholeheartedly.
“Tell me, Isla. How is Blake Hawkins?”
Isla’s green eyes looked diagonally away from the Captain as she searched her thoughts. “Blake? We keep in touch through Subspace. Ah see him when ah have time away from tha Reuel. But it’s rare, Captain. Ah’m just too busy right now for personal relationships.”
A sad expression formed on Captain Cherub’s Baby Face. He flapped his wings to get closer to Isla.
“Isla, I want you to take the time to record him a Subspace Message. We nearly lost our lives at the Battle of Heaven’s Gate. Let him know you are still alive and doing well. And once you get Engineering working back to minimum standards, I want your Assistant Engineer to take over for the time being. You are to take a Week off to Rest and Relax.”
“But Captain, I…”
“That is an Order, Isla,” Captain Cherub said, cutting his Chief Engineer’s protest off before she could complete her sentence. Captain Cherub gave Isla a look that would brook no argument.
Isla formed a defeated look on her pretty face. “Captain…Why?”
“BECAUSE, MY CHIEF ENGINEER. THERE IS MORE TO LIFE THAN WORK AND DUTY. YOU HAVE TO DRINK ALL THAT LIFE HAS TO OFFER, NOT JUST THE SATISFACTION OF A JOB WELL DONE. FEED ALL THE PARTS OF YOUR SOUL, DON’T NEGLECT CERTAIN PARTS OF YOURSELF. IF YOU CANNOT REMEMBER THAT, ISLA, THEN I WILL REMEMBER IT FOR YOU.”

By Norman Dizon (Ichaborn) on Thursday, August 27, 2020 - 08:06 pm: Edit

ENFORCER DOMITIAN - STARDATE 08.27.20
Link to Previous Enforcer Domitian Logs

“Distance to the Cargo Ship?”
“80,000 Kilometers and closing fast.”
“Open a Channel.”
“This is the Cargo Vessel Angelica. We are on a Humanitarian Mission to deliver Critical Medical Supplies to the World of Lagos Prime. Millions of people will die without these Medical Supplies. Please...show Mercy.”
A strange gurgling sound came from Captain Jones’ tentacles. The mere mention of the word Mercy made him want to throw up. He stared at the Small Cargo Vessel on the View Screen that was dwarfed by the immense Enforcer Domitian.
“You are traveling through a Restricted Zone without Permission. Prepare to be Boarded. The ORDER OF THE DRAGON will confiscate your Medical Supplies. The Fate of Lagos Prime is not our concern. If you cooperate, you will spend the rest of your lives as Slaves under a Harsh Whip. If you resist, you will be Destroyed.”
“Please...we have No Weapons. We cannot turn back. The People of Lagos Prime desperately need us. Have Mercy on us.”
Again, Captain Jones felt nauseous. He hated that Word. The Word of the Weak. The Word of the Pathetic. The Word of those who should not be Allowed to Live. His right hand clenched into a fist.
“Fire Plasma Net.”
A Net of Burning Energy shot out of the Domitian, ensnaring the Angelica. The Cargo Vessel began to lose Warp Speed. All of its Shields began to wear away from the constricting Plasma Net.
“Shall I open fire now?” the Tactical Officer asked, anxious to inflict serious damage.
Captain Jones held up an open hand. “Not yet. Patience. Let them feel the Panic. The Chaos. The Hopelessness. Let them Pray to whatever God they worship, so that they may hear No Answer.”
Alexandra smiled from her seat beside Captain Jones.
A short time passed and eventually, the Angelica came to a complete halt. Her Shields were completely gone. The Enforcer Domitian circled around her like a Vulture.
“Very well,” Captain Jones commanded. “Fire Disintegration Rays. Slowly, don’t rush the Pain. First, disintegrate their Left Wing. Then their Right Warp Engine. Then their Right Wing. Be sure to leave their Command Deck and Cargo Hold untouched. “
White streams of energy shot out of the Domitian, striking the Angelica in key areas. After repeated blows, her Left Wing disappeared as if it never existed. Then the same thing happened to their Right Warp Engine. The sudden disappearance of their Right Warp Engine triggered several explosions. The Angelica shook with tremors. Her lights flickered on and off.
A victorious slurping noise emanated from Captain Jones’ tentacles. “Prepare Boarding Parties. Transporters on Standby. Not quite yet. Let them squirm a bit more first.”
Suddenly, Two Starships entered the region of space. They were still well beyond firing range of the Enforcer Domitian.
“Navigator, Maximum Magnification on the View Screen.”
Captain Jones and Alexandra stared at the Two Starships approached at High Warp. They both cursed under their breaths.
They were KNIGHTS D’ARTHUR.
“Identification?” Captain Jones asked his Science Officer. The Science Officer stared into a long, binocular-like device which covered both of his eyes completely.
“It’s the Sir Lamorak and the Sir Alymere.”
“How far away is the Enforcer Nero?” Captain Jones asked his Navigator.
“Two days at Maximum Warp.”
Captain Jones’ tentacles moved about like a Sea Anemone. He stared at the Sir Lamorak and the Sir Alymere with his eerie Octopus Eyes.
“Turn us about. Prepare to Withdraw. Send a Priority One Subspace Message to DRAGON COMMAND apprising them of the situation here. Advise them that there are two KNIGHTS D’ARTHUR in the vicinity.”
Alexandra leaned close to Captain Jones so that no one else on the Bridge could hear her words.
“You know that we could possibly destroy them both.”
Captain Jones looked at his beautiful First Officer. She would love nothing more than to destroy both of the KNIGHTS D’ARTHUR.
“Or we could be destroyed instead. Even if we succeeded, the Enforcer Domitian would suffer Heavy Damage. No, Number One. The Smart Play is to Withdraw and return with Superior Forces. Then we will Crush the Enemy with Minimal Losses. Put your Feelings in Check, Number One, and Always Remember...”
“THE ORDER OF THE DRAGON DOES NOT LIKE TO WASTE RESOURCES.”

By Garth L. Getgen (Sgt_G) on Friday, August 28, 2020 - 06:10 pm: Edit

Once again: Where's the 'like' button??

Well done, Norman. It's nice to have you back.


Garth L. Getgen

By Norman Dizon (Ichaborn) on Friday, August 28, 2020 - 08:00 pm: Edit

Thanks Garth. It was my pleasure to...

What? An Andromedan Intruder just landed on the Front Lawn?!?

SPP is getting out? He's all dressed in Black??

He's wearing a Darth Vader Helmet and a Black Cape?!??!

Garth - GOTTA GO!!!

By Norman Dizon (Ichaborn) on Monday, September 07, 2020 - 11:53 am: Edit

REUEL – STARDATE 09.07.20
Link to previous Reuel Chronicles


Captain Cherub stared out into the stars from his chair on the Observation Deck. Every now and then, he would fly a short distance, only to return to his seat in a depressed position. The Large Baby with Wings was overwhelmed with melancholy.
A door slid open, allowing the Reuel’s Chief Medical Officer to enter. One of the Vegetians, Doctor Maize resembled a Tall Humanoid piece of Corn. Yellow kernels covered his body and large green husk leaves hung downward from Doctor Maize’s shoulders. Near the top, two deep blue orbs indicated his eyes, which were covered with glasses to help him see better. Doctor Maize shambled over near Captain Cherub and sat down next to him.
An oversized tear dribbled down Captain Cherub’s chubby cheek. Although he was too sad to speak, Captain Cherub managed a soft greeting for his trusted friend.
“Cob.”
“Captain, I feel your pain. But you did the right thing. All this wallowing in pity is quite unhealthy for you. You belong on the Bridge, taking charge of the Reuel.”
“That’s easy for you to say, Cob,” the Angelic Being replied. “You didn’t make the decision. You don’t have to live with the weight of the consequences. I DO.”
Doctor Maize went silent for a moment. He knew that recent events had affected his Captain, but not to this extent. If he didn’t act quickly, his Captain’s future psychological performance could be critically affected.
“Cherub, isn’t it true that the Iron Realm was going to drop Two Atomic Bombs on heavily populated cities on Holo-01? Didn’t our Scanners indicate that they had Thousands of Concentration Camps dedicated to exterminating Millions of Innocent People? Didn’t the Iron Realm believe that they were Superior to other inhabitants of Holo-01, simply because of the Tone of their Skin, Color of their Hair, and Color of their Eyes?”
Captain Cherub nodded in agreement, but said nothing.
“And wouldn’t it have taken Millions of Lives to fully defeat the Iron Realm? By launching our Plasma Torpedoes, and completely obliterating the Iron Realm, you SAVED Countless Lives!!”
Captain Cherub nodded in agreement, but said nothing.
“Then what’s the problem, Cherub? You obviously did the Right Thing.”
“My problem, Cob, is that I EXTERMINATED an Entire People! What Right have I to do that? Sure, we call them EVIL. We call it NECESSARY. We say they would have done HORRIBLE DEEDS. But when all is said and done, I am Responsible for the DEATHS OF MILLIONS OF PEOPLE!!! How am I supposed to live with that?”
Doctor Maize went silent. He was unused to such outbursts from his Captain. Typically, Captain Cherub kept his emotions controlled under a cool veneer of command. This incident must truly be affecting him internally.
“Cherub, the Watchers possess Extraordinary Power. It falls on us to use that Power WISELY. It is a TERRIBLE RESPONSIBILITY. But why else did the Most High grant us these Powers? The Watchers are a Force for Good, for Right, for Truth, and for Justice. We MUST combat Evil wherever we find it. We cannot Ignore It or Refuse to Act. It is our DUTY.”
The Large Baby with Wings stared at the Tall Humanoid Corn. His Chief Medical Officer was Right. Deep down, Captain Cherub knew he spoke the Truth. They had been told this over and over during training at Watcher Academy. But it is quite different when something is Hypothetical and when it is REAL.
“Thank you for reminding me, my Good Friend. Cob, I don’t know what I would do without you. Yes, the decision I made was terrible and costly. But it was also Necessary. There actually was no choice about the matter. The Reuel HAD to Act. It is in our Very Nature to Do So.”
Captain Cherub looked into the stars once more. He was Ashamed.
“Do you think me Weak-Willed for reacting this way?”
The kernels on Doctor Maize’s face formed a wide smile.
“No, Cherub. You are the Finest Person I know. You always will be. Doubting your actions doesn’t make you Weak. It proves that you are Strong.”
“You have a CONSCIENCE, unlike others Who Don’t Think Twice about the Lives They’ve Taken. You show COMPASSION, unlike others who Feel Absolutely Nothing. You bear the HEAVY BURDEN of the CONSEQUENCES of your COMMAND DECISIONS, unlike others who blame their decisions on some External Force or Rule. You stand for LIFE, GOOD, RIGHT, TRUTH, and JUSTICE. Captain Cherub, you Embody the Holy Qualities of a TRUE LEADER.”

By Norman Dizon (Ichaborn) on Thursday, September 10, 2020 - 09:19 pm: Edit

AGE OF CAMELOT - STARDATE 09.10.20
Link to Previous Age of Camelot Legends

Far above the capital world of Roma Prime, a titanic starcraft drifted in space like a fallen leaf floating on top of a still pond. Far larger than a Battleship, some would call it a Starbase capable of Warp Travel. It was an intimidating sight to say the least. Yet the purpose of Camelot, as it was called, was not to spread Fear and Terror. No, Camelot existed as a Shining Beacon of Hope during Stormy Dark Tides.
Roma Prime, a devastated and tortured world, was rendered virtually uninhabitable. Smoke plumes rose high into the air, contaminating the atmosphere, and poisoning the natural blue skies into an ominous thick dark grey. All of the vegetation has been stripped from the once green world, leaving a barren, rocky, inhospitable abyss. Roma Prime has been cracked open as an egg unable to stop its inner yoke from spilling out for all to see.
On the surface, King Arthur slowly walked on the ravaged earth of Roma Prime. He wore his pure white Celestial Armor, rumored to be nigh impenetrable. Numerous small Red Globes decorated the Armor, front and back, each one capable of emitting beams of devastation. A Dark Blue Belt circled his waist, providing access to nearly unlimited equipment, each item micronized to atomic size until the need arises to restore it to its original size. It is said that the White symbolizes Peace, the Red symbolizes the Blood required to attain it, and the Blue symbolizes the Vigilance needed to maintain it. Of course, at King Arthur’s side hangs the legendary Excalibur, a Sword made of Starlight that was forged in the Heart of a Star. Excalibur possesses enough energy to destroy an entire army. Atop King Arthur’s head sits the Crown of Kings, a golden artifact that inspires the wearer to become the Best Leader they can possibly be.
Beside King Arthur floated his lovely and majestic Wife, Guinevere. An incorporeal Elemental, Guinevere is capable of assuming Mortal Form for extended periods of time. She and Arthur fell in love when they were young and she has never left his side since. Her Loyalty is the Foundation upon which Arthur’s Soul is Built Upon. Should that Loyalty ever fail, Arthur’s Soul would surely come Crashing Down.
An entire contingent of Knights followed behind Arthur, forming a protective semi-circle waiting to spring into action at a moment’s notice.
A young man approached King Arthur, flanked by two Knights. Wearing all black, he was a handsome figure with a neatly trimmed goatee. This was Mordred, King Arthur’s Adopted Son. A White Crow painted onto the chest of his uniform was his Symbol.
“It is as we feared, Father.”
King Arthur looked sad. His eyes tightened into an unbreakable stare, despite his feelings.
“Report.”
“The ORDER OF THE DRAGON have done what they do best. There are Millions of Concentration Camps throughout Roma Prime. Billions have been senselessly slaughtered, whether by being thrown into the fire, shot, worked to death, or starved. There are mass open graves which have been piled with dead bodies. There is evidence of systematic and routine torture. Countless innocents have been mercilessly experimented upon, supposedly in the name of Science. Most of the women have been forcefully sterilized. The children have been so brainwashed by the ORDER OF THE DRAGON’s propaganda that they believe we are the enemy. All of the resources have been completely stripped from Roma Prime. It is now a Dead World.”
King Arthur looked over at his beautiful wife, Guinevere. She returned the look, comforting her husband when he needed support. No words needed to be said between the two.
King Arthur turned back at Mordred, the Son he relied upon like a First Officer.
“Begin transporting down our Engineers. Use Sensors and Scanners to detect any traps left behind by the ORDER OF THE DRAGON. Beam down as much of our Food Reserves as needed to feed the remaining Starving Population. Have our Instructors come down to establish Schools for all who want to learn. Replicate as much Clothing and Tools as necessary. We need to Rebuild their Cities, Restore their Infrastructure, and give them some kind of Self-Sustaining Government. The Children must learn that we are their Friends, not their Enemy. We must teach them about Freedom, Equality, Justice, Rights, and Truth. Do not force it upon them, simply make the information available and encourage them to learn about it. Educate the children in History...True History...not the Distorted, Perverted History of the ORDER OF THE DRAGON that only serves to further their EVIL AGENDA. The people of Roma Prime will also need a Military to Defend Themselves when we are gone. Train them how to fight, but stress that they are Never to Abuse that Power by becoming an Aggressive, Offensive Power. Begin to Terraform their world so that Vegetation can grow and thrive once more. Purify their Poisoned Oceans and Rivers. Have our Genetic Experts restore Essential Extinct Animals and Plants vital to their World’s Tree of Life. Beam down our Doctors and Psychologists to begin Healing the Injured, both Physical and Mental. Clear their Skies to allow Sunlight to shine once more upon the surface. Give the people of Roma Prime all the Support they Need, but allow them to reach their Achievements on their Own. Camelot will fulfill its Sacred Purpose in the Universe. We will bring HOPE to Roma Prime.”
Mordred nodded and issued commands to his Two Knights. The Two Knights rushed from his side to make them a reality. Then Mordred’s black eyes burned with Hate.
“Father, the ORDER OF THE DRAGON must PAY for what they’ve Done Here!”
King Arthur put his hand on Mordred’s shoulder to console him. He stared into Mordred’s Black Eyes with his own Deep Blue Eyes.
“Never cross that line from GOOD to EVIL, my Son. Once you do, you will become FOREVER LOST. The line is SO THIN, we have to Rexamine It Constantly and be Ever Vigilant by always looking Within Ourselves. Let your Soul be Guided by Justice, Truth, and Compassion, not by Vengeance, Lies, and Hatred. Rely on those Around You to SUPPORT YOU and help KEEP YOU IN THE LIGHT. ONLY TOGETHER can the DREAM OF CAMELOT be made REAL.”

By Norman Dizon (Ichaborn) on Friday, September 11, 2020 - 01:28 pm: Edit

TO ALL THOSE WHO DIED ON THIS DAY: YOU WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN.

By Norman Dizon (Ichaborn) on Sunday, September 13, 2020 - 05:40 am: Edit

REUEL – STARDATE 09.13.20
Link to previous Reuel Chronicles

“We represent the Watchers, benevolent guardians of all life throughout the cosmos. Please tell us your Name.”
The Floating Giant Head made of Stone inspected Captain Cherub, Mr. Gloom, Doctor Maize, and the Two Red-Shirt Security Guards behind them. Its diamond-shaped eyes flashed rapidly, cycling through a spectrum of different colors.
“Watchers? You are not native to Trinius-06. Leave. NOW. This planet is only for Ogon and his People.”
Captain Cherub turned to his Tall, Undead First Officer.
“Analysis, Mr. Gloom?”
A loud whirring noise could be heard from the Science Officer’s Tricorder.
“It is definitely not Organic,” the Necronin answered in a deep, monotone voice. “Judging from the data my Tricorder has collected, I would say that it is some kind of Machine.”
“A Machine?” Doctor Maize said in a hysterical voice. The Vegetian was full of emotion. “Cherub, I’ve got a bad feeling about this. What kind of Machine comes down out of nowhere and proclaims itself a God?!?”
“Calm down, Cob,” Captain Cherub told his Chief Medical Officer. “We don’t know its intentions yet. Let’s not jump to any conclusions.”
The Winged Giant Baby flew a little closer to the Floating Head made of Stone.
“Ogon. We’re concerned about the people of Trinius-06. They are simple, peaceful people who live off the land. They know nothing of war, greed, or domination. Now, they tell us that you’ve forced them to worship you. Why have you done this?”
“They are now my Flock, and I am their Provider. The Trinians have been lost since their time began. Now they are found. They MUST Worship Me, just as I MUST Provide for my Children.”
“Now you listen here, you Rocky, Overbearing, Controlling…”
Captain Cherub flew in front of Doctor Maize, cutting him off before he could finish his sentence.
“Be informed, Ogon,” Captain Cherub told the Floating Head in a stern, confident voice. “What you are doing is Wrong. No one should be Forced to Worship anyone or anything. They may do so of their own Free Will, if that is their own Choice, but they cannot be Forced. Ogon, will you stop your activities or do we have to escalate this situation to Watcher Command?”
“You DARE to question Ogon?? Pay the Price for your Folly!!!”
Two Firebolts shot out of the diamond-shaped eyes of Ogon.
Without a second thought for his own well-being, Security Officer Hansen threw himself in front of Captain Cherub to protect him. Hansen screamed out in pain as the Two Firebolts consumed him, burning his flesh like a well-done barbecue skewer. His blackened corpse fell in front of Doctor Maize.
Quickly, Doctor Maize knelt down to examine the brave Red-Shirt Security Guard.
“HE’S DEAD, CHERUB.”

By Norman Dizon (Ichaborn) on Thursday, September 24, 2020 - 05:32 am: Edit

ENOLA GAY SUPERFORTRESS - STARDATE 09.24.20
Link to previous Enola Gay Superfortress Reports

“Are you sure about this one?” Captain Lewis said to Captain Tibbets.
Captain Tibbets stared at the Green World on the View Screen. It seemed so peaceful, rotating ever so slowly around and around. Clouds could be seen dotting the atmosphere. Blue oceans covered much of the planet.
The look on Captain Tibbets’ face might as well have been a chunk of granite.
“We’ve reviewed the Mission Specs over and over. A Council Hearing was convened as it always is in order to determine if a Mission is worthy of our Unique Ship. The Final Decision was made. You know this, Captain Lewis, you were there.”
“That’s not what I asked you,” Captain Lewis said with an angry tone. “I asked if you were sure about this one. That means, in your own personal assessment, are we about to do the Right Thing?”
Captain Tibbets was silent as he continued to stare at the Green World on the View Screen.
Tomoe Gozen, the First Officer aboard the Enola Gay, approached the Two Captains. She had been standing close enough to overhear. Clad in Samurai Armor, an Obsidian Naginata was strapped to her back and a Katana hung from her waist.
“You realize that Alpha Lentari, while seemingly peaceful, is responsible for supplying the Dredari with Trans-Dimensional Technology, don’t you, Captain Lewis? The Dredari are currently waging war with Seven Empires, devastating Hundreds of Worlds with their ability to transport vast distances in the blink of an eye.”
Captain Lewis locked eyes with Tomoe Gozen. Her gaze was unbreakable as usual. Tomoe was almost always direct, logical, and objective.
“Yes, Tomoe. I am aware of the primary reason for this Mission. But there are Countless Innocent Lives down there!! Surely there must be Another Way!”
“We have been Contracted for this Mission and we WILL fulfill it,” Captain Tibbets stated. He would brook no further argument about the matter.
Captain Lewis shook his head, but nodded in consent.
“Helm, take us down.”
The Enola Gay sped toward Alpha Lentari and dipped into its atmosphere. The Ultra Advanced Starship was larger than a Fast Patrol Ship, but smaller than a Frigate.
Defensive Fighters from Alpha Lentari attempted to intercept the Enola Gay, but they were promptly shot down by the Enola Gay’s numerous Machine Gun Phasers. Ground Defenses on Alpha Lentari pounded the Enola Gay, unable to penetrate its Adamantine Hull.
“Captains, we’re in position,” the Helmsman announced.
Captain Lewis looked at Captain Tibbets one more time. Captain Tibbets was aware of the look, but his gaze remained fixed on the target. Tomoe Gozen stood next to Captain Tibbets, her eyes unblinking.
“Release the LITTLE BOY. And take us out of the atmosphere.”
An unusual bomb device dropped out of the Enola Gay’s Hatch. The strange device hovered in mid-air, staying in one spot. A powerful Force Shield protected it from all assaults.
The Enola Gay sped away from Alpha Lentari, moving a safe distance away. Slowly, it turned around to Bear Witness to its Final Action.
The LITTLE BOY detonated.
Within moments, the oceans on Alpha Lentari dried up. Earthquakes cracked the ground. Vegetation withered away. The air turned to poison. The sky turned black. Then a Massive Fireball engulfed the Whole World, instantly killing All Living Things on Alpha Lentari. The Planet trembled. Then it shook violently. Finally, Alpha Lentari broke apart into fragments, yielding a Loud DEATH CRY for the Entire Universe to hear.
There was a Long Period of Silence aboard the Enola Gay. The Entire Crew thought of all the People that had just lost their lives. It was UNTHINKABLE. Then Captain Tibbets ordered,
“Helm, take us Home. MISSION COMPLETE.”

By Norman Dizon (Ichaborn) on Sunday, November 08, 2020 - 02:42 pm: Edit

VERSION 2.0
Link to Version 2.0

Version 2.0 (or V2) is a New Galaxy that presents the Alpha Sector in an Alternate Way. The Primary Goal for Version 2.0 was to provide More Options for the SFB Captain to choose from during Gameplay. It was not my original intent to create New Technology for Version 2.0. My first thought was to use Existing Technology in New and Different Ways. But as Version 2.0 evolved, it became apparent that New Technology needed to be created in order to make my vision a reality. These foundational pieces of New Technology led to the Different Game Mechanics I was looking for. Of course, the Overall Purpose to creating New Technology, Different Game Mechanics, and More Options for the Captain was to inspire the Creation and Implementation of New Tactics on the Battlefield.

One of the Main Design Elements of Version 2.0 was the Duality of Heavy and Light. This Duality is seen in Version 2.0’s Phasers, Heavy Weapons, Drones, and More. The Duality typically takes the form of a weapon More Powerful (the Heavy Element) than the Alpha Sector, and a weapon Less Powerful (the Light Element) than the Alpha Sector. Together, these Two Elements provide Balance and give the Starship Captain Two Options instead of just One.

For Power, I wanted Warp, APR, Impulse, and Batteries to work in the standard fashion. Version 2.0 is not supposed to be the equivalent of X-Technology or X2 Technology. However, the driving force of presenting the Captain with More Options did manifest in the area of Reserve Power. Version 2.0 features Dedicated Reserve Power, which compliments (not replaces) Standard Reserve Power. Dedicated Reserve Power functions like Standard Batteries, but can only be used for Specific Functions.

Defensively, I wanted Shields to remain the same with no changes. Nevertheless, a New System called Exomail has a profound impact on the Defensive Aspect of Version 2.0. Exomail is similar to a New System I created years ago for one of my New Galaxies, but is slightly different. In Version 2.0, Exomail protects Key Systems which are crucial to each Empire, making the use of Exomail different for each Version 2.0 Empire.

The Standard Alpha Sector Phasers have been replaced with Heavy Phasers, Medium Phasers, and Light Phasers. The Heavy Phaser (Phaser-A) inflicts slightly more damage than a Phaser-1, but is restricted to extremely close range. This means a Starship must be Knife-Fighting in order to employ its Heavy Phasers. The Medium Phaser (Phaser-B) scores damage on par with a Phaser-2, but with Phaser-1 Range. This means that Mid-Ranged Combat in Version 2.0 will be waged with Medium Phasers, resulting in more Medium Phasers being installed on your average Starship. The Light Phaser (Phaser-C) causes damage slightly less than a Phaser-3. This works perfectly with the Redesign of Drones in Version 2.0.

Heavy Weapons are split in Version 2.0 between a Heavy Version and a Light Version of the Same Weapon. This idea originated from Module P6, where Mega Photons were presented along with Light Photons. The article even talked about how the Federation were almost modified in Doomsday to include both Mega and Light Photons. This idea has now been implemented in Version 2.0, but taken to a whole new level, because Every Empire in Version 2.0 will be designed with this concept in mind.

Drones in Version 2.0 have also been split into Heavy Drones and Light Drones. Consequently, this means that all the Standard Types of Drones from the Alpha Sector have been discarded in Version 2.0. Light Drones are faster than the typical Type-I Drone, require less damage to be destroyed, can be launched more often, and are easier to concentrate en mass. Heavy Drones are slow, cause more damage than a Type-I Drone, require more damage to be destroyed, and are launched less often due to their immense size. While similar in concept to the Tachyon Missiles prevalent in the Omega Sector, I didn’t want Version 2.0 Heavy Drones to be that powerful or that complicated. Further Types of Light Drones, Heavy Drones, and their own Specific Launching Racks will be presented as Version 2.0 is developed further.

Plasmas in Version 2.0 will remain the same (no features will be deleted), but will have More Options for the Captain during combat. These concepts originated from Two Different Sources. The First is Francois Anger’s Triangulum Galaxy. The Second is the Simulator Empires from Module C4. However, the Additional Plasma Options in Version 2.0 will more Simplified and Easy-to-Use when compared with those Two Sources.

For Shuttles (and Fighters), Version 2.0 implements the Real Life Use of Heloshuttles. Heloshuttles were presented in Module C4 as Simulator Only Technology. But that limitation applies only to the Alpha Sector, where that Simulator Technology was born. So in my New Galaxy, Heloshuttles are a Very Real Thing. Or I could just explain it away with technobabble, saying that it is a New Type of Shuttle that just happens to function EXACTLY as Heloshuttles. Either way, Version 2.0 will be forever changed by the introduction of Heloshuttles. Not so much for the Admin Shuttle aspect, but rather for the Fighter/Carrier aspect, which will be Designed in Detail for Version 2.0 in the future.

There will also be several other uses for Admin Shuttles outside of the Standard Wild Weasels, Suicide Shuttles, and Scatterpacks. These New Uses, like all of Version 2.0, must be thoroughly Playtested and modified according to the results.

All of these changes have Profound Consequences on Gameplay in Version 2.0. First of all, Exomail makes Version 2.0 Starships much more durable in combat compared to standard Alpha Sector Starships. Second, the many kinds of Dedicated Reserve Power fundamentally change Power Curves, how Reserve Power is Allocated during Energy Allocation, and how Reserve Power is used during the Turn. Third, the implementation of Heavy and Light Heavy Weapons (and Drones) invariably leads to Greater Damage Output during Combat. This is balanced by the existence of Exomail on other Version 2.0 Starships. Fourth, the additional Phasers, Heavy Weapons, Batteries, and Heloshuttles increase the average Internal Count on Version 2.0 Starships. This results in Greater Resilience in Version 2.0 Starships when compared to the Alpha Sector. Should the Alpha Sector be flown in combat against Version 2.0? While possible, it is discouraged for the above reasons. Even with Equal BPV, the odds would not be even, because the Design Paradigms for the Alpha Sector and Version 2.0 are Critically Different.

Another thought is whether these Design Principles can be incorporated into the Omega Sector. Can Omega Sector Designs become part of Version 2.0? Possibly. My initial thoughts are that the Many Phasers of Omega, Different Defensive Systems, and Imbalanced Starship Designs may lead to a lot of problems when attempting to convert to Version 2.0. Perhaps a Stripped Down, Focused Version (meaning Only Select Elements) of Omega can be merged into Version 2.0…

In terms of the Version 2.0 History, Timeline, and Current Events, I wanted Version 2.0 to remain frozen in a type of Cold War with Ever-Escalating Technology. There is a clear Balance of Power between the Version 2.0 Empires that is almost never broken. This means that Events from the Alpha Sector like the General War, the ISC Pacification, and the Andromedan War never take place in Version 2.0. Even so, there will be Events in Version 2.0 that will require Multiple Empires to respond, just not the Entire Galaxy. And perhaps, at the End of the Version 2.0 Timeline, there will be a Single Major Threat that threatens ALL the Empires at Once.

Does Version 2.0 succeed at presenting the Starship Captain with More Options? Yes. Do these Additional Options lead to New Tactics on the Battlefield? Yes. Do the Additional Options overly complicate SFB in Version 2.0? I hope not. Is Version 2.0 exactly the same as the Alpha Sector? No. Is Version 2.0 meant to be an Advanced Version (X1/X2) of the Alpha Sector? No. Is Version 2.0 something New, Exciting, Fresh, Different, Intriguing, and Interesting which is vaguely reminiscent of the Alpha Sector? YES.

By Norman Dizon (Ichaborn) on Sunday, November 08, 2020 - 02:46 pm: Edit

HAMMERHEAD HEAVY CRUISER SSD
THE SEA DOG LEAGUE
VERSION 2.0
Link to the Hammerhead Heavy Cruiser SSD

(V2R1.1) HEAVY CRUISER (CA): The Hammerhead Heavy Cruiser was feared throughout Version 2.0 as a dominant Starship predator in the food chain. Although limited in maneuverability, the Hammerhead Heavy Cruiser was capable of fast speeds if it did not fully arm all of its weapons. Armament included Heavy Photons, Light Photons, a Plethora of Medium Phasers, Two Heavy Phasers, and Two 360 Degree Light Phasers. This was supplemented by Heavy Drones and Light Drones.
One of the reasons the Hammerhead Heavy Cruiser was so feared was because it could withstand a major blow from an enemy vessel and still return its own powerful strike. This was due to the copious amounts of Exomail installed on the Hammerhead Heavy Cruiser by the Sea Dog League.
Another subtle factor in the Hammerhead Heavy Cruiser that many opponents fail to take into consideration is its abundance of Dedicated Reserve Power. These additional Batteries would often make or break a Duel between the Hammerhead Heavy Cruiser and its adversary. Few Heavy Cruisers from other Version 2.0 Empires had as much Dedicated Reserve Power as the Hammerhead Heavy Cruiser.

By Norman Dizon (Ichaborn) on Monday, November 09, 2020 - 07:06 am: Edit

NEREID – STARDATE 11.09.20
Link to previous Nereid Logs

Captain Longfin yawned, revealing row after row of ultra sharp teeth. The Humanoid Shark was bored.
“Let’s have a song, shall we?”
Everybody on the Bridge sang in a loud voice,

“Wrap me up in me oil-skin and jumper
No more on the docks I’ll be seen
Just tell me old shipmates, I’m taking a trip mates
And I’ll see you some day in Fiddler’s Green

Now Fiddler’s Green is a place I heard tell
Where the fishermen go if they don’t go to ‘ell
Where skies are all clear and the dolphins do play
And the cold coast of Greenland is far, far away

Wrap me up in me oil-skin and jumper
No more on the docks I’ll be seen
Just tell me old shipmates, I’m taking a trip mates
And I’ll see you some day in Fiddler’s Green!”

Everyone on the Bridge roared with laughter and morale was much improved. A beautiful Humanoid Sea Urchin brought a clipboard up to Captain Longfin. Bruce flashed a smile at her as he signed the document.

‘Hippo, what’s our status?” Bruce asked his Helmsman.
“We’re closing in on the Asteroid now, Sir,” the Seahorse answered. Two thin appendages acted as arms, pressing the buttons on her console. “Another minute to contact.”
The Nereid sped through space, gaining distance on its target. The Hammerhead shaped vessel was alive with numerous lights.
Ah, good, Captain Longfin thought. We can finish up this business quickly so I can get back to reading the timeless classic, Twenty Thousand Leagues under the Sea. Surely the Nereid has better things to do than blow up an Asteroid that is on a collision course with the Colony on Neptune-6.
“Cloak? Analysis on the Asteroid?”
The Upright Manta Ray examined his instruments before answering. “It is not particularly dense, Bruce. In fact, I would speculate that its interior is hollow. A pair of Light Photon Torpedoes combined with a barrage of Medium Phasers should be sufficient to destroy it.”
“You heard the Manta,” Bruce said as he turned toward his Navigation Officer.
“Light Photon Torpedoes armed and ready,” Dolly replied. The Living Starfish was staring at the View Screen with her multiple arms ready to press down on her console. “Medium Phasers locked on the Asteroid. Just give the command, Captain.”
“Fire.”
Two glowing orbs shot out of the ends of the Hammerhead’s frontal section, followed by streams of solid light. The deadly weapons smashed into the Asteroid, completely obliterating it into a ball of dust, smoke, and debris.
“Well done, everyone,” Bruce announced as he rose from his Command Chair to return to his Ready Room.
A strange Black Cloud grew from the center of what used to be the Asteroid. This Dark Mass flew straight at the Nereid like a thing alive. As it closed in, the Black Cloud separated into dozens of individual entities with wings.
Captain Longfin sat back down.
“Red Alert. Raise Shields.”
Shadow Bats, Bruce thought. Vicious, malevolent, space-dwelling creatures that can rip your ship apart. Their small plasma-tipped teeth can shred your shields within moments, allowing them to ravage your outer hull next. Phasers are ineffective against Shadow Bats and they are impossible to hit with Heavy Weapons. A single Shadow Bat is not much of a threat, but an entire Cauldron of Shadow Bats flying together through space brings only Doom and Death.
That was no simple Asteroid. It was a Well Planned TRAP.
LOOKS LIKE I WON’T BE GETTING BACK TO MY BOOK AFTER ALL...

By Garth L. Getgen (Sgt_G) on Monday, November 09, 2020 - 01:24 pm: Edit

Oh, wow. Nasty. You need to write the game-specs on those things up and submit it to ADB.


Garth L. Getgen

By Norman Dizon (Ichaborn) on Tuesday, November 10, 2020 - 05:04 am: Edit

WHITE WOLF – STARDATE 11.10.20
Link to previous White Wolf Entries

Exhausted, Ichaborn was slumped over face down on the table in his Ready Room sleeping. The Albino was in a deep slumber, dreaming of things that once were, and things that may yet come to be.

Through a hazy fog, Ichaborn saw the Celestial Fellowship of Galaxies in its Last Days. Ichaborn was there, barking out orders, desperately trying to stop the tsunami that was approaching. But it was too late. Nothing could turn this tide and there was no way to survive the total devastation that it would bring.

Ichaborn looked to his Advisors, Generals, Delegates, and Allies, hoping that one of them held an important piece of information that could be used to reverse the situation. When they had none, ichaborn felt his Soul falling downward into the Abyss.

You see, Ichaborn had been so focused on combating the Final Enemy externally, that he failed to recognize the Cancer that was growing ever so slowly internally within the Celestial Fellowship of Galaxies. This Cancer was a Movement, a Campaign built upon Lies, that promised to revolutionize the Celestial Fellowship of Galaxies and convert it into something better, a Literal Paradise. But this promise was far from the Truth, however. It was the Cancerous Movement’s Goal to Destroy the Celestial Fellowship of Galaxies and All Life within It. They cared nothing for the Sacred Document that formed the Core of the Celestial Fellowship of Galaxies, the Rights Written in the Stars. In fact, they Hated the Sacred Document with a Passion. The Enemies that created and funded this Movement knew that the Celestial Fellowship of Galaxies was too strong to be overcome by Military Means. So they plotted, schemed, subverted, bided their time, bribing, convincing, indoctrinating, brainwashing, threatening, attaining high positions of power, until finally, they were ready to begin their assault. The Internal War that Ichaborn was realizing now had actually started countless years before; he had just been Too Blind to See It.

But there was a Viper in the Nest that was crucial to make the Downfall of the Celestial Fellowship of Galaxies a Reality. It was one of Ichaborn’s Closest Friends, someone he would have given his life for. Ichaborn had fought wars with this person, confided in them his darkest secrets, and listened to their valuable input at every turn. The Betrayal was unimaginable. It stuck deep in Ichaborn’s Back like a Twisted Poisoned Dagger. How could he have been such a Fool?

Ichaborn watched with tears of blood streaming out of his eyes as the Celestial Fellowship of Galaxies fell to pieces right before him. Throughout Countless Galaxies there was War, Suffering, Strife, Death, Destruction, Betrayal, Enslavement, Deception, Pain, and Suffering. And it was all Ichaborn’s Fault. There was no Worse Crime in All of History.

Screaming, Ichborn woke to find Lupa gently shaking him. He stared up at his Ship’s Avatar until finally, his Blood Red Eyes recognized her. She was a beautiful Angel looking down on him, her silver hair flowing behind her, her light grey eyes filled with worry.

“Captain , are you alright? My Sensors detected an elevation in your Vital Signs. What happened?”

Ichaborn rubbed his stiff neck. It took him several moments to compose himself.

“It was a Nightmare, Lupa. A Terrible Nightmare. One the likes of which I have never experienced before. The Intensity was Unbearable.”

Lupa studied her Captain, making sure he was alright. She listened closely to his words.

“But That was the Past. And This is the Present. Now, I am committed to the High Guard. And I Swear to you, Lupa, by All I Hold Dear…”

“THAT NIGHTMARE WILL NEVER BECOME A REALITY AGAIN.”

By Norman Dizon (Ichaborn) on Friday, November 13, 2020 - 08:26 pm: Edit

DETHAN HEAVY CRUISER SSD
INTERGALACTIC ASSEMBLAGE OF SYSTEMS
Link to the Dethan Heavy Cruiser SSD

The Intergalactic Assemblage of Systems is comprised of hundreds of thousands of member worlds. These empires range in technology level from Early Years to 0x to 1x to Z-technology. Presented here is a 0x starship from one of the many member empires.

DETHAN SHIPS
(ZR5.1) HEAVY CRUISER (CA):
The Dethan Heavy Cruiser was a reliable, efficient starship that served a variety of functions. Armed with unorthodox weaponry, many opponents were caught unprepared when facing the Dethan Heavy Cruiser in combat. At range, the Dethan Heavy Cruiser would relentlessly pummel its opponents with its Photon Cannons. Up close, the Dethan Heavy Cruiser proved to be especially deadly due to its Tractor Cannons. Often overlooked is the fact that the Dethan Heavy Cruiser was also outfitted with extensive power systems, ample reserve power, and swift maneuverability. Wise adversaries did not underestimate the Dethan Heavy Cruiser. The Dethan Heavy Cruiser also possessed another carefully hidden feature. Its Forward Phaser Banks were capable of cross-firing across the bow of the ship, giving them a wide firing arc far different from a standard starship.

DESIGNER’S NOTES:
The Photon Cannon is a variant of the Photon Torpedo that functions like a Particle Cannon. Able to fire multiple times per turn, the Photon Cannon can repeatedly hit its opponent from different angles. Sadly, like the Particle Cannon, the Photon Cannon cannot concentrate its fire into a single strike. This lower damage output is mitigated by the Photon Cannon’s ability to fire every turn. In this respect, the Photon Cannon has an advantage over the Photon Torpedo. While there is No Overload feature with the Photon Cannon, the weapon does possess the ability to Proximity Fire. Ultimately, the Photon Cannon is neither a Photon Torpedo nor a Particle Cannon, but rather something New and Different that promotes the generation of New Tactics.
The Tractor Cannon possesses a Dual Function. It can function as either a Tractor Beam or a Direct Fire Weapon. As a Direct Fire Weapon, it is limited to only Extremely Close Range. The Tractor Cannon does not generate huge amounts of damage, but the numerous amounts of Tractor Cannons on the Dethan Heavy Cruiser can make a difference in combat while Knife Fighting. Additionally, like a Tractor Beam, each Tractor Cannon is 360 degrees, an advantage that should not be forgotten.
The Dethan Heavy Cruiser was designed to work with the Alpha Sector Paradigm. This means that it can be played against Alpha Sector Starships with a fair degree of balance. The Dethan Heavy Cruiser was not designed to be Ultra-Powerful, but rather to be an Average Starship that must rely on its unique strengths in order to be victorious. I believe the Dethan Heavy Cruiser is different enough to create an interesting play dynamic when matched against other Alpha Sector Cruisers.

By Norman Dizon (Ichaborn) on Sunday, November 15, 2020 - 09:22 pm: Edit

STUPENDEMYS GEOGRAPHICUS HEAVY CRUISER SSD
INTERGALACTIC ASSEMBLAGE OF SYSTEMS
Link to the Stupendemys Geographicus Heavy Cruiser SSD

The Intergalactic Assemblage of Systems is comprised of hundreds of thousands of member worlds. These empires range in technology level from Early Years to 0x to 1x to Z-technology. Presented here is a 0x starship from one of the many member empires.

STUPENDEMYS GEOGRAPHICUS SHIPS
(ZR6.1) HEAVY CRUISER (CA):
The Stupendemys Geographicus Heavy Cruiser was a slow moving bastion of firepower. This Living Starship was armed with multiple Bioelectric Bolts, Radiation Eyes, and Plasma Breath Torpedoes. Deadly Bio Defense Fields generated a barrier against seeking weapons and fighters. Adrenaline Batteries provided a source of ever-replenishing Reserve Power. Numerous Shuttles gave the Stupendemys Geographicus Heavy Cruiser various options on the battlefield.
Like all Stupendemys Geographicus starships, the Heavy Cruiser possessed one Unique Notable Feature: a Gigantic Enormous Protective Shell that covered nearly all of its body. This Shell has been Genetically Modified to be More Resistant to Damage and to Heal Rapidly. Countless Boarding Parties await anyone foolish enough to board the Stupendemys Geographicus Heavy Cruiser.
The Stupendemys Geographicus Heavy Cruiser had a fatal flaw that was often exploited by its adversaries. The Living Starship was cursed with extremely slow movement and archaic maneuverability. It was a slow moving space beast, especially when it was arming its weapons. This fact gave the enemy the initiative, allowing opponents to easily circle the giant space turtle.

DESIGNER’S NOTES:
The Stupendemys Geographicus is an amalgamation of the Alunda, the Branthodon, and Enormous Space Faring Turtles. The best elements of the Alunda and Branthodon have been extracted, while less useful components have been discarded.
The Stupendemys Geographicus was designed to fit the Omega Design Paradigm. This means that the Stupendemys Geographicus was meant to be played against Omega Starships.
Bioelectric Bolts were given to the Stupendemys to act as their Phasers. The Stupendemys Geographicus also features Radiation Eyes and a Plasma Breath Torpedo. Note that each Radiation Eye scores Twice the Normal Damage for Twice the Cost. Plasma Breath Torpedoes take the form of a Plasma-S Torpedo and may be launched every other turn. Radiation Eyes and the Plasma Breath Torpedo form the Main Heavy Weapons of the Stupendemys Geographicus.
Most unique of all, Shields were discarded on the Stupendemys Geographicus in favor of a Giant 360 Degree Armor Shell. This Mighty Shell absorbs damage from all directions and is the equivalent of the combination of other Heavy Cruisers’ Shields. In order to protect against being boarded, the Stupendemys Geographicus was filled with an excess of Crew and Boarding Parties.
For Defense, the Stupendemys Geographicus was given a Bio Defense Field, which acts as a more powerful version of a Subspace Energy Field. This Bio Defense Field has an Increased Radius, includes Range 0, can affect Plasma Torpedoes, and scores damage against Starships.
Of no use were the Alunda’s Plasma Whips, Attraction/Repulsion Fields, Whipcrack Torpedoes, Plasma Cloud, or the Branthodon’s Special Damage Allocation System, Flying Maneuvers, Claw, Bite, or Tail. All of these items have been omitted on the Stupendemys Geographicus.
It is assumed that the species that flies inside of the Giant Space Turtles has mastery over Genetic Modification and Cloning. However, their goals and intentions in using the Space Turtles as Starships are much different than the Mirn.
Due to the inherent nature of Giant Space Turtles, the Stupendemys Geographicus was given a really Bad Turn Mode and Twice the Normal Movement Cost.
In conclusion, I have created a Slow Moving Living Starship armed with Above Average Weaponry. In battle, it can unleash more damage than almost all other Omega Starships. With its Massive Armor Shell, the Stupendemys Geographicus can easily absorb the most potent Omega Alpha Strike, survive, and exchange its own brutal Alpha Strike in retaliation. This means that Omega opponents will have to whittle down and wear out the Armor Shell before closing. But this is easier said than done. Playing on a Floating or Fixed Map will result in serious consequences. Obviously, the clear disadvantage of the Stupendemys Geographicus is its Slow Movement and Terrible Turn Mode. These weaknesses must be exploited by other Omega Adversaries in order for them to be victorious.
Ultimately, I have created a Living Starship which is New and Different, and which will force the generation of New Tactics, both for the Stupendemys Geographicus and for its Opponents. The Stupendemys Geographicus is Not a Balanced Starship (it was never meant to be), which allows it to fit in perfectly with the other Imbalanced, Chaotic Starships of the Omega Sector.

By Soeren Klein (Ogdrklein) on Monday, November 16, 2020 - 04:54 am: Edit

Awesome designs, Norman.

But shouldn‘t there be elephants involved?
Or are those part of the dreadnought version?

Mit freundlichen Grüßen
Sören Klein

By Norman Dizon (Ichaborn) on Monday, November 16, 2020 - 08:40 am: Edit

Thanks for the feedback, Soeren.

Don't worry, the Elephants are Coming...the Elephants are Coming...

By Garth L. Getgen (Sgt_G) on Monday, November 16, 2020 - 12:29 pm: Edit

Just keep them out of the room. They hate it when we talk about them.

Elephant Walk


Garth L. Getgen

By Nick Samaras (Koogie) on Monday, November 16, 2020 - 11:27 pm: Edit

I don't know about this one. Assuming a battle of equal BPV it can shrug off two alpha strikes with no reduction in combat ability. Might need a "leaky armor" rule.

By Norman Dizon (Ichaborn) on Tuesday, November 17, 2020 - 12:05 am: Edit

That is certainly a possibility, Nick. But it depends on the strategy used by the opponent. Playtesting and Analyzing Results will be Key to this Design. The Stupendemys Geographicus is something Completely New, which means that Viable Tactics to beat it still need to be developed.

Surely, if a player runs up to the Stupendemys Geographicus, fires a full Alpha Strike at point blank range, and hopes to win, they will be mistaken. The Stupendemys Geographicus will most definitely win when faced with this strategy.

But if a player stays far away, taking shot after shot at the Stupendemys Geographicus, chipping away at its Armor, what then? The Stupendemys Geographicus is so slow, it cannot catch this player. What weapons will it use to hit its elusive opponent from afar? A PL-S Torpedo that degrades with range? Radiation Eyes that won't do much damage at that range? Or Bioelectric Bolts that will have minimal effect or will just plain miss at that range? It seems to me that the player staying away will have a certain advantage.

But it depends on the opponent. The Maesron will fare differently than the Trobrin. The Hivers will fare differently than the Sigvirions. The Loriyill will fare differently than the Ryn. The Worb will fare differently than the Souldra. The Branthodon will fare differently than the Alunda. And so on....

Attacking the Stupendemys Geographicus is akin to attacking a Battle Station. Running up to it and blasting it is not the best tactic. Some caution and patience is advised.

Remember that once the Stupendemys Geographicus is out of Armor, it has No Defenses at all, unlike a Starship that has simply lost 1 out of 6 Shields.

Even if it is found (through Playtest Results) that the Stupendemys Geographicus can take a shot unfairly and still keep fighting, it may still have its place in the grand scheme of things. Consider the large asteroid ships of the Jindarians. They have a place (despite the odd design of their rock ships), because their written history justifies their strange existence. The same can be said of the Stupendemys Geographicus.

What are their Goals? Where do they Live? What Empires do they Interact with? How often do they get Involved with the Conflicts of Other Empires? Are they Warlike? Or Pacifists? Perhaps these Gentle Giants in Space simply want to be Left Alone...

By Norman Dizon (Ichaborn) on Tuesday, November 17, 2020 - 08:23 pm: Edit

Just a quick note on Ways to Balance the Stupendemys Geographicus, if it comes to that based on the Results of Playtesting. I will copy this information over to my website (Regenesisgalaxies.com) for Future Reference.

1) Split up the Armor Shell into 6 Directions so that they function effectively as Shields. I am not a fan of this option because it takes away the unique flavor of the Stupendemys Geographicus.

2) Reduce the Amount of Armor Shell to make it less resistant to an Alpha Strike.

3) Allow for Leaked Damage whenever the Armor Shell gets hit. I am not a fan of this option because of the countless types of weapons (not just in Omega, but in all of SFB and Genesis). So this option would require a gigantic list of weapons and how much damage gets leaked through for each.

4) Reduce the offensive output of the Stupendemys Geographicus. This will allow opponents at range to survive longer and more often. Not the best option, but a possibility. If a battle does come down to knife fighting (after many turns), I would like the Stupendemys Geographicus to still be able to compete. With reduced offense, it will be less of a threat at any range.


These options are just foresight in case they need to be used. The next step is to actually Playtest the Stupendemys Geographicus, which will take time. A Floating Map will favor the Stupendemys Geographicus' Enemy, while a Fixed Map will favor the Stupendemys Geographicus.

Also worth noting is that, while evaluating Stupendemys Geographicus as a New Empire, it will function in more ways than just a Duel. How will the Stupendemys Geographicus fare against 4 Frigates (Multiple Small Opponents who are circling and staying at range)? How will the Stupendemys Geographicus perform in a Large Fleet Battle (with Multiple Stupendemys Geographicus Ships vs a Varied Fleet of Ships that can concentrate their fire to blow away one Stupendemys Geographicus at a time)? How will the Stupendemys Geographicus function against Solo Monsters (is it simply too slow to win the scenario)? Is the Stupendemys Geographicus a One-Hex Empire or a Massive Empire that takes up a Large Part of the Map?

All valid questions that will be answered in time...

By Norman Dizon (Ichaborn) on Tuesday, November 17, 2020 - 08:32 pm: Edit

Another comparison to note is the Stupendemys Geographicus and the Pre-Doomsday Andromedans.

Both Empires could take an Alpha Strike and shrug it off. However, the Pre-Doomsday Andros were able to drain their PA Panels and move the Energy elsewhere. This is why, when hit over and over in a long running battle, they came back fresher than ever (especially with the Displacement Device to run away when they needed more time). Hence, the Leaked Damage Rules.

However, the Stupendemys Geographicus does not have this luxury. When the Shell Armor gets blasted away, it is gone. Yes, it can be restored with Healing, but that is slow, just like using Damage Control.

It is an interesting comparison to make and one to keep in mind. Is the Stupendemys Geographicus repeating History? One who does not learn from History is...

By Norman Dizon (Ichaborn) on Thursday, November 26, 2020 - 04:03 pm: Edit

WHITE WOLF – STARDATE 11.26.20
Link to previous White Wolf Logs

Ichaborn sat on the Observation Deck staring out into space. The lights were off, the choking darkness reflecting the Lack of Hope in Ichaborn’s Soul. His Inner Sorrow had overtaken him once again. As each of Ichaborn’s fingers pressed tightly against each other in a pyramid shape, his red eyes narrowed.

Lupa appeared next to Ichaborn, shining bright like an Angel. Her transparent luminous form was a majestic vision, a thing so beautiful it could make a person cry. She was a young woman with flowing silver hair and light grey eyes. Lupa immediately noticed Ichaborn’s mood. She proceeded with caution.

“Captain, you instructed me to alert you of certain days. Today is one of them. My data files indicate that we are supposed to give…Thanks. I…am not quite sure what this means. “

Ichaborn scowled, cursing to himself inwardly. Give Thanks? What a Joke! How am I supposed to be Thankful when All of the Celestial Fellowship of Galaxies has Fallen? When All of my Friends are now Dead? When everything I worked so hard for, sacrificed so much for, invested so much time into, has now crumbled into dust? When countless people suffered terribly and inhumanely because of my lack of foresight? It’s all my fault…it’s all my fault…it’s all my fault…

Anger built up within Ichaborn like a Volcano preparing to Erupt. He could not stop his own body from shaking uncontrollably. Underneath his clothing, his Runes began to glow brighter and brighter. His bone white skin began to resemble a Skeleton more and more. He was no longer a Living Thing, but rather a Dead Spirit that Hated his Existence, Hated being forced to take another Breath, Hated Himself for all of his Failures, Hated Life itself for Bringing Himself into Being…

Then the Impossible happened. A Hand reached into the Deep Pit of Despair that Ichaborn had fallen into. The Hand lifted him up and gently placed him in a Safe Place. Ichaborn stared in disbelief at Morduug, his old First Officer and Trusted Mentor. The Blind Gazer was smiling. He too was overjoyed to see Ichaborn once again after all these years.

“You forgot one of my Most Important Lessons, Ichaborn. No Matter what has Happened, No Matter what you are Currently Struggling With, No Matter what Troubles await you in the Future, there are Three Things that will Forever Be With You. FAITH, HOPE and LOVE. And the Greatest of These is LOVE. LOVE All the Blessings you have been Given, LOVE the World around You, LOVE your Neighbor, LOVE the One who Watches Over You, but Most Importantly, LOVE Yourself Ichaborn. You must FORGIVE Yourself.”

Morduug slowly faded away, leaving Ichaborn staring dumbfounded at Lupa. Lupa could tell her Captain had been somewhere else. She placed her ghostly hand on top of his, a gesture of compassion, although it was impossible for her holographic form to feel his organic flesh.

“My Apologies, Lupa. I must have fallen ASLEEP. But I am AWAKE Now.”

Ichaborn rose from his seat with Confidence. Renewed Vigor filled his Soul. His frail form seemed Unstoppable.

“Summon the Crew. Tell them we will be Gathering in the Cargo Hold in One Hour. There will be Food, Drink, Music, Games, and Festivities. We will celebrate LIFE. We will celebrate EACH OTHER. Everyone will GIVE THANKS. Quickly now, make the appropriate preparations. I will meet you there right after I have changed my attire. Go!”

Lupa smiled with excitement. The White Wolf’s Avatar disappeared in less than a second.

Ichaborn prepared to leave the Pitch Black Observation Deck. But before he exited through the main doors, he whispered,
“Thank you Morduug. I miss you my old friend.”

Ichaborn paused. He almost forgot something.

“OH…AND OBSERVATION DECK: …MAXIMUM ILLUMINATION.”