>>3910149
For House and Dominion! Nothing more can go wrong edition!

The first Hex class attack cruisers have begun to enter service with your fleet, being hastily assembled to replace losses. Your engineers are a bit inexperienced with the class and intend to rotate the first few squadrons back for refits once they have the bugs worked out.

Word from House space has reached you regarding particulars of changes enforced on the new Count by the returning Barons. It's mostly restricted to allowing them more input on the passing or repealing of new laws and edicts by the Count, though in theory he could still force things through without them. They have been acting cautiously when it comes to any modifications of deals that might set off new protests. The lawyers and merchants associations remain a powerful political block within the Progressive Reformer and Egalitarian Coalition.

Knights and Nobles from the returned fleets haven't brought the sort of one sided political viewpoint many expected. Quite a few of the younger generation were influenced by events on Surakeh and wanted reforms. Of course few of those wanted the death of the Count to secure those changes. It has created a complicated environment for political discussion.

Things remain turbulent on Dreminth and Torun. Issues in the former Erid territories also persist, though there is little chance of a large scale uprising there for the moment. Baron Xisoth is uncertain if he will be deploying in the third invasion wave as planned. His presence seems to keep things stable in a way only your previous Count could manage.

Archivald is looking at preparing a J-D composite force instead. If this happens the assembly point will be closer to the front. Possibly where your fleet is currently based since Forbearance would need to be handed off to them anyways.

>>3910149

For House and Dominion! In before more surprise events also known as surprise Empire Neeran offensive!

News has leaked to the media that the ACS yards operated primarily by Iratar have reached their maximum theoretical output. What those numbers are isn't clear but the yards are consuming resource stockpiles faster than can be replenished. Crewing the new Supers is requiring more and more of the Factions experienced manpower and clone output. The war needs to be won soon before the impending bottleneck adversely affects Faction industry.

Emperor Ber'helum has requested that Houses take steps to prevent inflation of materials prices. Other Factions are trying to do the same.

RSS has completed primary salvage operations of the locations you recovered years ago. (Partly because of competition nicking a few sites.) Super Heavy wreckage has been moved back to Surakeh or other House strongholds where they're being held for transfer to the yards at DRH1.

The Forbearance yards are already being kept busy, not just because of the salvage sent their way either. A Ruling House directed development team has been working out upgrades for Dominion Supers. Crews that have spent time aboard Alliance ships are drawing from experience to find ways of improving the DECS. While undoubtedly good for the Dominion and the yard output, some in the House are worried by how many engineers from other Houses are present.

Avun remains confident that J-D personnel could hold the defense platforms and garrison until reinforcements could arrive if any of the guests tried to take the yard for themselves. If it were the Ruling House attempting such a takerover the defense might be for naught. The could easily overwhelm the Run's defenses before your allies could muster a powerful enough response.

The fact that they didn't nationalize Alex's experimental shipyard during the J-D coup is proof enough for you that the Emperor can be trusted. Others see Ber'helum's warning at the time as more of a threat. They want certain infrastructure in the House prepared with demolitions for use as a means of self destruct if anyone tries to capture them. Mostly the big shipyards. There is considerable opposition to this. Captured yards can be retaken after all. Even it that might take a very long time.

Despite this arguments persist. J-D has a great deal of valuable tech and important facilities the current Ruling House has invested in heavily. Future Emperors may feel it safer to have those assets under their direct control.

>Do you have any input on this you'd like to express to the Count?

Just going to sleep, but have a great one all!

>>3910149
FOR HOUSE AND DOMINION

>>3910244
>. There is considerable opposition to this. Captured yards can be retaken after all. Even it that might take a very long time.
Just agree to everything, I can just print you new stuff with my magic ancient alien beam if we actually need it.
That's understandable. Request the ruling house put the monetary value of the facilities they want prepped in escrow? If a facility is destroyed, they'll have to repay the house for the loss.

>>3910244
Maybe it's time to build a less than public stockpile?

JD black reserve forces.

>>3910244
Sell the yard to a company that is 51% controlled by JD and let other Run members buy into it? That way if they try to take it, they're depriving the Run as well.

>>3910244

>Do you have any input on this you'd like to express to the Count?

Emperor Ber’helum can be trusted not to try and nationalize or take over our yards. And if nobles are concerned about future Emperors trying to do so. Then maybe those nobles should try to prove to be of use to the Ruling House? Rather then just relying on the good will we (Sonia) have built with the Emperor over out career to maintain J-D’s standing with the Ruling House. Of course, I understand the idea of doing actual work and proving ones worth without devolving to politicks is hard for most nobles.

So, if the Count wants to assuage some of the noble’s fears. And, at the same time kick at some of the upstarts and weaken them. Suggest he petition or talk to the Emperor about getting an agreement with/ from the Emperor. That the Ruling House won’t take over J-D holdings. Like Alex’s yards, without really good cause, like J-D collapsing or having its own internal civil war. Or maybe even an agreement that J-D could start paying back some of that investment, though I do not think anyone would approve of this idea. If the nobles are that worried, they could start paying back the investment put into them. Raise their value by showing they can pay back what was put into them.

So either have the nobles prove their worth to the Ruling House and the Emperor to make any future Emperors see J-D as reliable and not as a possible source of quick influx of resources and yards or such. Or just have the Ruling House make an agreement of some sort.

Just a suggestion.

>>3910265
>Request the ruling house put the monetary value of the facilities they want prepped in escrow?
The Ruling House dont want them at this time. It is politically convenient to keep assets in the hands of allies they've helped to strengthen. Either for use as buffer states, or to convince others of the benefits of allying with them.

Paranoid members of House Jerik-Dremine think they may want those back in the future. And when someone owns 40% or more of a shipyard it wouldn't take much to push for a controlling share. That's more of less how Sonia got the armor company and Rioja. Basically if you wanted them to invest even more money (in this case into escrow) you'd be inviting the Ruling House to simply buy out a controlling share of the yards.

Which would solve the problem I guess?

>>3910268
>JD black reserve forces.
Establish a unit with crews in stasis intended to recapture or destroy shipyards if they're taken from you?
Or a hidden high tech yard?

>>3910288
This suggestion can be made to the Count.

>>3910294
>Agreements with RH
>idea of doing actual work [...] is hard for most nobles
So could these.

>>3910244
>>Do you have any input on this you'd like to express to the Count?

Limit the availability of publicly available shares in the yard? Or investment for that matter. Will probably slow growth and annoy some people but seems to be the direct approach.

See if we can get the RH to sign an agreement that they will not be trying to take the yard from us by nationalise it.

Have a bit of faith in Ber'helum that they wont try to steal from their own allies?

Build additional defenses around it to show everyone how safe and secure the yard is and no one should try to take it, not that they could.

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You send a brief message to the young Count Jerik with some suggestions. Selling shares in the yard to members of the Run Alliance for one. Meanwhile asking for an agreement with the Ruling House respecting future J-D operation of the yards might be a bit blunt but couldn't hurt as long as it's done right. Caius finds your suggestion that the more paranoid nobles find ways to make the House useful to the Emperor to be amusing.

You hold off on ideas for a new black ops reserve force for the moment until you can present it in person. There is a risk other Houses might intercept or decrypt this call in the future and you'd rather not make it easier for them to find out.

Another week passes without any major changes in the area. The Rekesh are rebuilding their forces following losses fighting the Ulgean fleet. They're also constructing siege weapon turrets to be fitted to the pair of supers when they're finished being refit. Things are quiet until Alliance ships begin to appear.

Anticipating your fleet's future departure from the region, the Alliance is deploying large numbers of training units to the Yang galaxy. Corvette wings, patrol craft, medium escorts and older AEXS series vessels have begun to arrive. These will take over for the smaller numbers of newer front line warships. Although second line units they should be able to deal with anything the Ulgean attempt. Especially in light of their recent losses at Threochts planet. Intel believes the Ulgean are shifting resources elsewhere to take advantage of Alliance offensives, either ongoing or those being prepared.

Rotation of personnel from the forward fleets has also started. The J-D units at home will probably mobilize in the next few weeks.

From what you saw at the planning for the 3rd stage this will probably be a lightning assault on the core of the Empire. You dont know the particulars of course. From what little you're seeing the Alliance will need massive numbers of ships. Especially if the Empire has been able to withdraw from the outer sections of their space in any serious number.

Will you be transferring any ships or personnel to the J-D composite fleet for the next large scale offensive? Or will you consider keeping your fleet in reserve should the offensive begin to bog down? It wouldn't be unreasonable to stay out off the remaining fighting entirely. After all, you had a special assignment. If anything happens the Emperor may still need you to hold down this galaxy.

NOTE: This choice will determine your involvement in the later stages of the war.

1) Send ships to reinforce J-D fleet?
1A) YES - We can spare some ships
1B) NO - Keep the Rioja fleet together

2) What will your fleet be doing in the meantime?
2A) Wait in reserve
2B) Camping the facility until it's time to go home

And I fucked up the formatting.

>>3910438
1B) NO - Keep the Rioja fleet together
2B) Camping the facility until it's time to go home
We have our mission and ensuring this facilty stays secure and in Dominion hands is far more important any ships of ours helping out in a offensive that probably involves like.... at lest 100 000 ships. No. We have our objective. We hold it to ensure there are no further fuckups and no one trying to take it or the Builder ship from us.

Remain, secure, fortify and wait.

>>3910438
>1A) YES - We can spare some ships
We have managed to pick up a few specialist ships the J-D fleet usually lacks. The Neeran ECM focused medium cruiser seems like something that could prove more useful supporting our fleet instead of garrison duty in this area.

>>3910438
>2A) Wait in reserve
Sonia is pretty good at supporting an ongoing offensive. Or at least she's much better at it than leading one.
I think we have a large Dominion fleet in the area by now, and Sonia can't really make a difference here at this point.

>>3910438
>1) Send ships to reinforce J-D fleet?
>1A) YES - We can spare some ships

We could send a small number. If we have the manpower to spare and the volunteers willing to stay deployed longer. To give the next J-D force some veterans from our offensive. Who can supply them with some experience from what we faced. Also allow our units to gain some training and experience from other J-D forces. In the off chance we have to face them in battle in the distant future, hopefully.

> 2) What will your fleet be doing in the meantime?
> 2B) Camping the facility until it's time to go home

I don’t know if we’re going to find anything new there. I’d still like to at least get one more check in with our super special soldiers we were making. See what their status is. What’s going on with the Tower Rekesh and if we can smooth anything over, what with their world almost being ruined thanks to ass hole Empire Neeran.

Also, slight paranoia someone is going to try and take all our goodies out from under us if we so much as look away for a minute.

Speaking of our Super Soldiers with Caretaker upgrades. Any progress on making them resistant to that jamming device? Because if there isn’t any progress, having those upgrades may be a sever determent to these soldiers future use.

>>3910438
>1A) YES - We can spare some ships
>2A) Wait in reserve

Ready the builder ship for rapid exit, should the worst happen?

>>3910438
Could we send a Rekesh auxiliary unit along? They've kinda sucked in straight fights so far but seem really capable when it comes to counter intel and covert stuff.

>>3910520
>Could we send a Rekesh auxiliary unit along?
It would seem that they would be up for it so yes.

What's the news on the Neeran city ship we dialed? Are the powers going to respect our (admittedly tentative) claim?

>>3910438
>>3910507

If we need to break a tie to continue. I can switch to 2A.

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>>3910601
The Caretaker city ship that is trapped in a section of the dyson sphere's north pole and hasn't been moved in a couple thousand years? That city ship?

>>3910647
Well, it was worth a try.

It seems you'll be able to spare some ships to help reinforce the J-D fleet. While the overall number of volunteers is fairly low there are more than enough to create a dedicated unit. Those offering to step up are largely those who hope to make a bit more money or another promotion in the process.

Phas Rah'ne and Lyas Cinayk both volunteer to command the group. It seems that they've taken Hera's temporary appointment to Rioja fleet commander as a challenge. Lyas jumping in is a bit of a surprise but they've probably realised that this might be the last chance to make a name in the Neeran conflict if you're all lucky.

They've too valuable to the overall operation of your fleet to send both. One will have to remain behind. Whoever goes will likely have a chance to compete with Hera for the position of next Knight Commander the House promotes. A valuable post and the only way to become a Baron.

Maybourne helpfully reminds you that the Rah'ne family have powerful connections in the House among the Dro'all population. Old money with strong ties to the Conservator political faction.

Lyas on the other hand is the highest ranking Kavarian in the House military. Kavarians are a minority in the House but a visible one, being much more numerous in the South Reach territories. Supporting their further promotion could have a significant impact on military recruitment.

Who will you send?
[ ] Phas Rah'ne
[ ] Lyas Cinayk

>>3910711
>[ ] Phas Rah'ne

>>3910711

If Lyas were to become a Baron, would that make J-D the first house to make a Kavarian a Baron? Also, what is the general acceptance of the Dominion to the idea of a Kavarian Baron?

I also get the feeling that this next push is not going to be the end of this offensive. Things are progressing to smoothly. The Empire Neeran have got to be planning something, something that will necessitate us having to redeploy or sending one of them in command of our fleet out to the front again.

What are the chances the Empire Neeran have managed to tap into that wormhole generator in the South Reach? That they sold off to the Pirates claiming it lead to Empire Neeran territory? Maybe they've decided to finally reopen/ reuse that gate for a massive invastion force into South Reach territory? I highly doubt it but it could be possible. This whole invasion has just been going to well for us (Sonia and the Factions Alliance). Something's bound to happen to cause a snag in all this planning.

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>>3910740
>would that make J-D the first house to make a Kavarian a Baron?
The first one in your House's history to be sure. It's possible there may be other Kavarians acting in a similar capacity inside the Dominion atm but they would have gotten there by defecting from the Warlords. So no real Barons.

There were many attempts to before the Faction Wars- especially by the Ruling House/Kharbos- to promote loyal Kavarian officers to similar ranks but they rarely lasted long. They became targets of both Dominion nobles and Iratar backed rebels. Or the however many other Kavarian rebel movements.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WboggjN_G-4

The majority of such Barons assassinations were blamed on Iratar but just how many of those actually were are questionable.

TL;DR: Not the first but probably the only.

>Also, what is the general acceptance of the Dominion to the idea of a Kavarian Baron?
Things are different now. Most dont really give a damn these days or are far less concerned about such things. Some Houses do of course but the have more important things to worry about now.
House Nirium tried to court the more conservatively aligned House who wouldn't like newly joined species becoming nobles and Barons. Because of this your House was asked to try to do less of that when possible after Lyas was Knighted. After Ber'helum came to power the Emperor's response was for other Houses to mind their own business about who was knighted. He certainly wasn't going to interfere with their internal affairs.

>wormhole generator in the South Reach
It was disassembled and moved to another location. Its technology and components were used to produce the Alliance's gate facility located in NAV REP 1.

>claiming it lead to Empire Neeran territory?
They claimed it could project a wormhole to Watcher space.

The Empire has several gate facilities, one of which was used to help supply their forces in Shallan space. The Rovinar destroyed the matching Shallan gate and it was never rebuilt. You are aware of Alliance plans to capture some of these gates to help shorten supply lines.

>>3910725
Expanding on why I chose this as I feel it needs to be said we went through a Civil war where we ended up on the Conservator side since we didn't agree with a violent coup.

With the vote switch earlier it looks like your fleet will be waiting in reserve. There wont be any rush to relocate just yet but when the next stage offensive begins you'll need to be ready to depart quickly if called on.

Still waiting on the unit commander with 1 vote cast so far.

>>3910711
>>3910823

The House could always use more troops and if Lyas could be in the running. That would help the house military. But if things are going to go smoothly, then having Phas be in the running will be good for us and strengthening the Conservative party in the House. Thus kicking the upstarts in the crotch.

>[ ] Phas Rah'ne

Can't use the old seniority excuse. They're both of similar experience by now. Apologize to Lyas, and tell Phas to expect the Empire Neeran to come out with something to slow down the offensive.

>>3910438
>1A
>2B
>>3910711
>[ ] Phas Rah'ne

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Looks like Phas Rah'ne is going to be sent. You make sure to warn her that the Neeran aren't going to just roll over when the Alliance takes a swing at their capital. Whatever surprise they intend to throw she should try to be ready to roll with it.

Towards that end you suggest asking the defectors for some support. Trelta Gun and Viqano Dyer proved to be extremely useful with their Medium cruiser sized "Cordate" ECM ships. They pair had also figured out a few additions to improve the firepower of their ships. Unfortunately you weren't able to get hold of the upgraded weapons the Neeran had developed for the class. The Empire removed all of the guns from the local stockpiles during their retreat.

Neither Shallan are thrilled with the idea of going into another combat zone now that this galaxy is secure. If either of their ships or crews were to be captured they'd be executed for desertion. Fortunately they are willing to help show a rookie crew a few tricks to give them a chance. You did capture a third standard Cordate class and it's now fully operational. The crew wont be as good as either of the veterans but it's a start.

Did you want to give Phas the ship for their unit, or not risk a potentially valuable asset with an inexperienced crew?

[ ] Give her the ship
[ ] Keep it with your main fleet

>>3910965

>[ ] Give her the ship

Best way to work out the things that are wrong with it is on the field. Just make sure to put the thing through a stress test before shipping off with it. May even be a good idea to have Phas perform a test with the Baron they're going to deploy with, so that the Baron is also aware of the ships limits and what it is capable of when they deploy.

>>3910965
>[ ] Give her the ship
She's experienced enough to know when she can afford to deploy an inexperienced crew, hopefully.

The ship and trainee crew and trainee crew are handed over and Phas immediately sets about conducting drills and practice maneuvers. With a few weeks to prepare she should at least be able to find out what they're capable of before deploying.

While you've been busy the crew of the Builder ship have been constructing walls and holding areas around the interior north pole of Threochts planet. The Caretakers have been making sure that the conversion beam systems aren't being overtaxed by their use. With the north pole facility now isolated in a smaller pocket the Krath have been able to clear it and install atmospheric containment systems.

Science teams investigating the site have been keeping in mind it was once used to unleash enough subspace radiation to kill all of the Leviathans whose corpses now litter the pole. With the help of Af Ied they confirm that the transit chamber leading to the surface has been sealed. Once some additional reinforcement is put in place to make sure no one accidentally reopens it again, it's determined that the local power systems can be repurposed.

"How much power are we talking about here?"
"Nowhere near as much as the singularity reactor but still quite a bit. As long as the ship is present to help with construction Af Ied thinks the site could be used as the center of a city." Tu Quedis explains.

You're initially rather incredulous about the idea.
"A city? Really? It's surrounded by nothing but blight scales for hundreds of kilometers."

"For now but that will change eventually. The engineers can also gain experience working with the conversion beams to construct increasingly complex structures, objects, even technology. The beam database was nearly empty after all, with the exception of base materials and the teleport option."

>Anyone for or against this?
>Ideas for things to build in this city?

Stopping here for the night as I have work in the morning. I'll resume for a bit tomorrow night and am planning to run through the day Saturday.

>>3911149

>Anyone for or against this?

I am all for this idea. As it can tie in nicely to our agreement with the Rekesh Government. And we can keep in contact with the Tower Rekesh, as much as I am sure they are thrilled to know.

>Ideas for things to build in this city?
Matter Syphon firstly
Builder Pad second.
Teleport system to connect the North Pole to the rest of the Facility.
Gate/ Wormhole research facility to study the gate system here. And determine the feasibility of building our own Gate/ Wormhole Hub Network to link all the factions major holdings.

>>3910965
>Looks like Phas Rah'ne is going to be sent.
I think we should find something else for Lyas. The guy has been doing an incredible job, and I feel like we should find a way to show our appreciation.

>>3911149
>Anyone for or against this?
Seems like a decent idea to test the conversion beams and create something useful in the process.

>Ideas for things to build in this city?
An emergency vault for the local population in case something happens to the installation. With the kind subspace trickery available in addition to builder material and faction stasis tech, maybe somebody will be able to come up with an ingenious way to store a couple million people without requring a huge building.
A transport network using builder teleportation tech.
A subspace listening array, if that's feasible.
A clinic for the locals?
I'm sure Af Ied's grandfather has some good and questionable ideas.

>The engineers can also gain experience working with the conversion beams
Can the conversion beam or builder medical system create proper food? One of their devices managed to print a body for the ancient technician, so a steak or a loaf of bread shouldn't be too far off, right?

>>3911149
>Anyone for or against this?
>Ideas for things to build in this city?

I am for it and have some ideas. We could use it as a testbed for all our newly aquired tech. Build up a research, and eventually production, center for once we can make more Matter Siphons and Building Pads. Housing for the large amount of crew we will staff it with. Holding area and quarteres for the Krath to make their work here easier by giving them a proper processing facility.

Some sort of high speed rail or the like that can transport people to it from the Gate area. Or perhaps even better. Make new gates in a secured area built specifically for it that will ease the logistics for us. So we can take in multiple loads of crew and supplies.

>>3911149
>With a few weeks to prepare she should at least be able to find out what they're capable of before deploying.
Just saying, Sonia still has something around 11 billion in the bank. Making part of that available for last minute upgrades and purchases for the J-D fleet participating in the next stage of the invasion might prove more useful than collecting interest on it.
What's the price of a Moradin class heavy?

>>3911149
>Ideas for things to build in this city?
Weather control tower
Open core reactor for proper lighting

>>3911152
With the push into Neeran core territories starting in the foreseeable future, maybe now would be the right time to allow alliance scientists to have a look at the builder teleportation systems?
Losses are going to be enormous no matter what, but this way we might be able to prevent some unfortunate deaths from teleporter shock or capsules getting lost.

>>3911149
Specialised facility for genetic modifications and medical testing?

>>3911716
>Just saying, Sonia still has something around 11 billion in the bank.
I dont remember when I last checked the available funds. There has probably been a few expenditures not added to it. Like hiring mercenaries so they'd switch to your side. Also the replacement warships, those aren't cheap. Getting another Nocturn is going to cost you about a billion on its own when one is available.

>What's the price of a Moradin class heavy?
1.8 Billion is a rough estimate? I'd have to locate the file where I was calculating the heavy carrier prices to be sure.

>>3911909
As per the previous agreements it can be sent to the Alliance via the caretakers to avoid having more people aware of the Krath situation.

I've tried to group together similar suggestions regardless of who posted them.

>Teleport system to connect the North Pole to the rest of the Facility
>A transport network using builder teleportation tech.
This is probably the easiest since those in the tower already build drones with deployable systems to do this.
>Make new gates in a secured area built specifically for it that will ease the logistics for us. So we can take in multiple loads of crew and supplies.
Could work. Maybe having gates dedicated to moving people and equipment in one direction, and another for moving others back.

>high speed rail or the like that can transport people to it from the Gate area.
This could help alleviate strain on the interior gate network as traffic increases.

>Gate/ Wormhole research facility to study the gate system here.
Probably best built at the old east gate to make use of the remaining infrastructure there. Even if parts of it has already been used to modify the west gate.

>Builder Pad
>Matter Syphon
These are advanced tech that will have to be worked up to over time
>research, and eventually production, center
This anon gets it.

>An emergency vault for the local population [...] without requring a huge building.
Technically the entire facility would classify as that but I get your meaning. Most Dominion cities are built with similar shelters, these ones would simply need to be a bit more advanced.

>A subspace listening array, if that's feasible.
Questionable. Sensors outside cant penetrate the energy field that keeps the interior out of phase.

>A clinic for the locals?
I suppose it would be a good idea to have one dedicated for that since most would otherwise end up being used for manufacturing or military purposes.
>Specialised facility for genetic modifications and medical testing?
Or it would be used for that.

>I'm sure Af Ied's grandfather has some good and questionable ideas.
No doubt.

>Can the conversion beam or builder medical system create proper food? One of their devices managed to print a body for the ancient technician, so a steak or a loaf of bread shouldn't be too far off, right?
There are dedicated food processors in the crew section of the ship which are undoubtedly far less complex. They do require power though, so it might not be a good idea to be entirely reliant upon them.

>Weather control tower
That should be straight forward

>Open core reactor for proper lighting
I'm not so sure how much the locals will appreciate this but it's worth investigating.

I know it's not as simple as put the plug in the socket, but what would happen if we input the SP torp manufacturing data?

>>3912935

We did this in a previous thread, scanned it in, results came back saying that it wouldn't be possible to duplicate or build with builder build pads.

>>3912935
This was already answered.

http://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/qstarchive/3658499/#p3662817

>>3912951
>>3912960
No no, not an SP torp, I mean the data we got when we scanned the manufacturing module for them, right before the Terrans stormed in.

Covertly create a beam module and ship it off back to the Emperor, just in case everything else fails.

>>3912976
> I mean the data we got when we scanned the manufacturing module for them, right before the Terrans stormed in.
You dont have a copy of that data physically with you. Going into enemy territory with it would be a really REALLY bad idea. The location of possibly the only copy in J-D space was raided by Terran black ops when your House suffered a coup.

>Covertly create a beam module and ship it off back to the Emperor, just in case everything else fails.
http://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/qstarchive/3658499/#p3663072
>You ask that the data be printed off listed as a modified beam special weapon and the rest erased from the system.

It's taken care of.

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Planning begins on the new city which will include a number of your suggestions. The initial hub will be primarily dedicated to providing support to research and development as well as utilities for later expansions.

For now the crews are practicing with simple shapes and solid objects. The buildings that go up will certainly be sturdy. Thick walled and made of builder material there isn't much that will be able to damage them. A few structures patterned off Rekesh ancient history are built to look like they're made of stone or marble.

"How long until they get to building anything like a Matter Syphon?" you ask Rob Ecord.

"That depends on how generous or crazy Tereoct is. You recovered data on the things but the conversion beams database dont line up the same. The scientists are taking to manufacturing something on a pad and disassembling it with the conversion beams to build up data."

"Well keep at it. The fleet is in reserve so we should have some time to deal with things here for awhile. If we are called up your units will be remaining here."
"Understood."

One of the Logistics ship captains have returned from the Alliance held super heavy yards. As predicted they've reported all the ACS series warships have left. Their replacement training craft include older capital grade warships and Supers.

Not all are from the classes you're familiar with. One looks to be an EX-Mega with 5 pairs of siege turrets instead of the usual 2. It lacks the more substantial armor and secondary battery of the ACS. IFF identified it as a bombardment ship.

The Kavarian yards may have maxed out production but apparently not before some more oddball prototypes and specialist ships were launched or ordered.

Who knows what kind of crazy one offs you might run into in the days ahead?

Submit ideas for crazy super heavy cruisers!

>>3913235

The Swarm Queen

As the Neeran have their Super Carriers carrying a shitload of Corvettes the Swarm Queen in turn carries thousands of Fighters instead. Armed with plenty of Point-Defense and Missile Launchers and a very powerful ECCM package. All the better to help defend itself and keep it's Drone Fighter Squadrons from being hacked. While it also carries an odd sortment of standard weaponry it has no room for heavies weapons such as Siege Turrets or Heavy Plasma.

The Torpedo Swarm Queen

What makes the Terrans harder than researching dangerous things? Large ships able to spit out torpedoes at literally everything. Working under the theory that "lots of torpedoes can solve any problem". The Torpedo Swarm Queen carries two specialized Heavy Torpedo Launchers in place of any siege weaponry Alternatively two giant ship cracking missile launchers with their own shields and SP tech. Meant to quickly crack open big ships . With a number of more regular sized launchers and single tubes supplemented by a large amount of conventional weaponry for more close range. Meant to dish out a large amount of damage at a lot of places in a very short amount of time.

The Wall

For many the idea of a Super is to stay at range and plinck away at a range with big guns. Whoever designed this baby figured that was for pussies. Introducing, The WALL. Extremely heavy armour, reinforced structure and shields for days, anti-matter afterburner and the desire to crush anything in it's path. Made for the express purpose of running and gunning straight into enemy lines, break it apart and then ram the biggest thing in it's way until nothing remains but scrap. Because you can't stop the wall, you can't break the wall. The wall breaks you.

>>3913235
>Area Defense Super.
No guns. Shitloads of forward-facing shields and Point Defense

>Helios Super-Siege Heavy
A spinal mount weapon that's wholly impractical, incredibly oversized, and can only just fire thanks to new technology like the cooling lasers.

>Veritas Super Weapon
If it's ready?

>>3913235
Antimatter production and storage super that can be used as a huge semi conventional bomb if things become desperate?
A super outfitted with navigator guild sensor arrays and other sensors for long range surveillance.

>>3913235
>FTL Inhibitor
A heavily amored ship with multiple large gravity well generators to prevent Neeran retreats even in massive fleet battles, while durable enough to survive that

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Plenty of suggestions. A lot less attempts to actually draw what they wanted than I expected. Only had time to do up a couple as I've been called in to work for later tonight.

>>3913422
>Torpedo Swarm Queen
This one is actually fairly easy and could be done without having to waste siege weapon turrets on it.
48x Aries torpedo batteries
108x Torpedo batteries

>two specialized Heavy Torpedo Launchers in place of any siege weaponry
Two or two sets? That's a big difference. If the latter it would probably just have a few siege weapon turrets thrown on making it more of an upgraded EX-Mega torpedo variant.

>single tubes
Single tubes are fixed and thus less useful for a ship that cant maneuver.

>Swarm Queen
Unlikely the Factions would set aside an entire super hull as a dedicated starfighter carrier but you never know. This would probably use the same base hull as the torpedo version just with the magazines removed and replaced with fighter bays.

>The Wall
>Extremely heavy armour, reinforced structure and shields for days, anti-matter afterburner
This is going to make it slower than most as super heavies already use antimatter with their sublight drives in order to make sure they get anywhere in a reasonable period of time.
I threw some secondary drive sections from the Sovereign class onto it. Not perfect but it'll have to do.

>>3913492
>Area Defense Super.
Similar enough to the wall above.

>Helios Super-Siege Heavy
>A spinal mount weapon that's wholly impractical, incredibly oversized, and can only just fire thanks to new technology like the cooling lasers.
I remember this one.

>Veritas Super Weapon
>If it's ready?
We'll have to wait and see.

>>3913609
Maybe a foundry ship that's suffered damage and been repurposed?

>>3913648
>A heavily amored ship with multiple large gravity well generators to prevent Neeran retreats even in massive fleet battles, while durable enough to survive that
The Alliance has experimented with replacing the V-Torp launcher mounted on some supers with gravity well generators. Generally one of these were assigned to each super heavy group during the Crystal Sea campaign. Not sure how effective multiple gravwell generators would be. It would have the use the Terran version or there would be issues with gravity on the ship.

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With the next offensive still weeks away veod has been considering data on other builder sites. Wormhole data has been used to triangulate the location of the last connection by the ship when the crucible fell. It might be worthwhile to throw the Alliance Suvorov taskforce a bone and let them check it out.


[ ] Give the data to the Suvorov taskforce
[ ] Send ship yourself /or/ open a wormhole?
[ ] Sit on the site data for now

>>3914086
Give data to Suvorov taskforce but require a Dominion wing attached to them? A Nocturn, maybe?

>>3914027
What about a super-heavy sized gravwell generator with the focusing system to make gravity-beams?

>>3914086
>[ ] Send ship yourself /or/ open a wormhole?
Wormhole team, get some people in place, then let the Suvorov know.

>>3914086

This location, is it located inside of Empire Neeran Space? Or Kythera space?

>>3914109
>What about a super-heavy sized gravwell generator with the focusing system to make gravity-beams?
That is not within Faction capabilities at present.

>>3914132
It is within a relay in Neeran space that is effectively contested. The Neeran are withdrawing forces from it but none of the others are actively trying to take it yet.

>>3914086
>[ ] Give the data to the Suvorov taskforce

If it is in contested space have the Suvorov task force go there. Also as >>3914095 suggested, maybe task a Dominion detachment to go with.

>>3914086
>[ ] Give the data to the Suvorov taskforce
+Dominion attachment

>>3914027
>A lot less attempts to actually draw what they wanted
I'm on android this weekend, so drawing anything is not really an option.
Why not just lots of heavy guns in a spinal configuration? Kinda like a budget executioner.

>>3914027
>A lot less attempts to actually draw what they wanted than I expected.
Should have just said so and I would applied my terribly wonderful paint skill to draw up some abomination.

>Single tubes are fixed and thus less useful for a ship that cant maneuver.
True, but if my memory serves me right torpedoes could be launched out, aligne, and then engage primary fire no? Sort of like Submarine missles are.

>>3914200
This

>>3914248
>True, but if my memory serves me right torpedoes could be launched out, aligne, and then engage primary fire no?
Yes but then they'll have to use more of their own fuel instead of getting an initial kick from the launcher.

"We'll send the data to the Suvorov but I want to make sure there's a Dominion unit attached to them. Maybe a Nocturn."

Maybourne looks into it.
"There should still be a Dominion contingent with them but mostly those from the Sphere Foundation. I guess the Emperor must have increased their funding and representation after the sphere expedition? They dont have their own cloaked ship though."

You only have one Nocturn available at the moment. You do have other cloaked ships though. Two older silent hunters that have been given upgrades, as well as some cloaked battleships.

[ ] Nocturn
[ ] Silent Hunter
[ ] Cloaked SR Fast Battleship

>>3914207
A super with the spinal section replaced by salvaged ascendancy heavy cruisers. The structurally stronger middle houses a super railgun or one of the other weird and rare super heavy Helios gun designs but upscaled to ultra heavy size.

>>3914301
Silent hunters? Not really sure about the differences about these and the battleships when it comes to stealth missions.

>>3914337
>Silent hunters? Not really sure about the differences about these and the battleships when it comes to stealth missions.
Silent hunter is smaller and harder to detect but they cant carry much crew.
Cloaked battleship is easier to detect but can actually slug it out in a fight with another battleship and could carry a unit of marines.

>>3914356
I guess the battleships would prove more useful to secure us a meaningful claim on what is found.

>>3914301
>[ ] Silent Hunter
>[ ] Cloaked SR Fast Battleship

We have what we need here and stealth ops aren't on the menu. That said the Nocturn is worth more then the Silent Hunter and Cloaked SR Fast Battleship.

Gone to work. Back around 10PM. Hopefully I wont get called in again on whatever next day I'm supposed to have off.

>>3914301
>[ ] Cloaked SR Fast Battleship

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>>3913235
>>3914027

>A lot less attempts to actually draw what they wanted than I expected.

Well here is my attempt at making an Experimental type Mega, I’ve been working on in MSPaint since you posted this. I am pretty sure this thing would be world/ lore breaking but eh, figure I’d give it a try.

…..

Over Costed EX-Mega

Acting as a test bed for some experimental technologies the least of which being the use of Triple Barrel Siege Cannons. As well as larger secondaries and two additional banks of maneuvering thrusters. Developed along side the Bombardment type EX-Mega, this EX-Mega sacrifices much of the heavier armor that the old ACS Early Type came with. Though unlike the Bombardment type it’s fewer in number Siege Cannons allow it to take some secondary cannons for added protection. Due to the additional weight of adding a third barrel to the Siege Cannons, more powerful engines had to be developed as well to ensure the ship can keep pace with advancing allied forces.

The decision to add additional maneuvering thrusters was to allow the ship to better avoid incoming shots from enemy supers. Such as in the case that an Executioner class Neeran Super were to use it’s primary cannon, the vessel could force itself out of the way faster than normal EX-Megas normally could.

It is rumored that the decision to introduce Triple Barreled Siege Cannons was from a tired engineer who shouted in frustration to “Just strap another Barrel on it!”, after the Alliance put in requests for EX-Mega’s with either more Siege Cannons or Stronger Siege Cannons.

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>>3914027
Helios Super Siege Heavy (HSSH)

Or, as I like to call it, "Fire the main gun"

>>3915007

Holy crap, is the whole purpose of that ship just to power and fire the main cannon which works similar to the Executioner?

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Wasn't happy with some of the lines, version 2, a bit cleaner.

>>3915046
Power the cooling systems too.

>>3914954
>>3915007
>These ships
Hot damn!

>>3915046
To be fair it's closer to a Scorcher.

>>3914954
>Over Costed EX-Mega
>“Just strap another Barrel on it!”
There were always plans for 3 gun siege weapon turrets but they have structural problems and wouldnt fit the existing mounts. All the more reason to put them on a prototype testbed!

>more powerful engines had to be developed
Or just more of them. The Alliance has been moving in that direction for awhile now. The slightly longer ACS Standard types have additional banks of maneuvering drives to help keep their performance about the same as the early types.

>>3915007
>Helios Super Siege Heavy (HSSH)
>Or, as I like to call it, "Fire the main gun"
Indeed!

>>3915079
I think either of them work.

>>3915007
>>3915079

>Power the cooling systems too.

A very important part of any super weapon that can crack planets open.

>>3915081
>There were always plans for 3 gun siege weapon turrets but they have structural problems and wouldn't fit the existing mounts. All the more reason to put them on a prototype test bed!

So not to world/ lore breaking then, great! Just gotta hope that first time you fire them that they don't rip the ship apart. Or figure out sturdier housing mounts for the turrets and reinforce the structure to endure the stress.

It's just to bad there isn't a way to create mass quantities of Builder Material. And then harvest it and repurpose it. Looking at our captured Builder construction ship with its conversion beam that can create just about anything including Builder Material. As well as those mining tools those proto-Krath were using to harvest said material for whatever purpose.

>>3915081
I don't have any files or pictures of small phase weapons so I can't draw it, but could you put around a thousand or more small phase weapons on a super, have it wade into corvette battles and just start shitting all over small ships?

>>3915140

So a PD EX-Mega? Call it the RAID-class EX-Mega, as it swats away those tiny pesky ships and missiles away like the pests they are.

>>3915150
Yeah it just goes in and bullies anything smaller than an attack cruiser. I guess you'd have to put lots of targeting systems in, and gunnery positions. As many gunners as there are guns for maximum effectiveness.

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>>3915140
One of the problems with super heavies is that fine details like phase cannon turrets are small enough that it would seriously clutter any drawings. Because of this I usually leave them out. I left them out on the drawings for Forbearance and it's still cluttered as hell because of the torpedo batteries and other junk attached to its hull.

All Supers do have some phase cannons, usually a few hundred, they're just overshadowed by the more impressive weapons. I suppose you could make a ship where the quantity of such guns was much higher.

>>3915189
The Lance class medium was supposed to do something like this.

>>3915234
Seems like you could get a solid 3-4000 on, in that case.

A pair of cloaked battleships will be sent to link up with the Suvorov taskforce, along with some marines and special forces. With the need for the best possible cloaking shields on the deployment you talk to the local Rovinar forces and manage to acquire two newer battleship grade cloaks for them. Both are considered to be under lease and will be returned later.

A few of the marines in either unit will be equipped with an artifact weapon or other useful gear. Not to mention enhancements. Despite the risks two volunteers with the base caretaker enhancement are sent as well. If the Alliance tries to shut them out from any potential finds they'll be losing out on some substantial advantages.

Two weeks after departing the taskforce reaches the location. It's another week and a half before you hear any of the results. They've certain they found the right system. Nearly every planetoid showed signs of heavy bombardment in the distant past consistent with antimatter weapons. One in particular stood out. It was surrounded by a debris ring composed of chunks and flakes of builder material.

Science teams believe the planet once hosted an orbital facility. From the amount of remaining builder material present both in orbit and littering the surface it must have been large enough to encircle the planet. There are remains of deep foundations that would indicate the presence of space elevators or other surface to orbit structures.

Many details are still missing but what is certain is that there is no life or technology to be found there.

Samples have been recovered and the location marked for investigation by a long term science expedition once the region is a bit safer. A few ships will remain in the region to check the surrounding systems for signs of other builder artifacts or facilities. For now one of your ships is returning with scans and a few pieces of debris that still had markings. They're hopeful the builder ship will be able to make some sense of them.

The House fleets have begun to launch and will arrive at your location beginning in about 5 weeks. It might take another 2 weeks for the last groups to arrive depending on logistics issues.

Was there anything you wanted to take care of before their arrival?

Will resume for a few hours tomorrow night.

>>3915519

Check with the RH Baron see if he is going to be heading back with us or if he's got other tasks to take care of.

Check with our two special operatives to see what their status is.

See if anyone has found a way to resist or counteract that jamming device that downed our specialist with caretaker upgrades.

Which Baron are we handing Forbearance off to?

Just general getting things settled and sorted out before getting ready to head home.

>>3915519
-Test out caretaker enhancement? Assuming the medical suite can revert Sonia to a previous 'state', there's no reason to not try it. After all these years too. Who knows, maybe it will result in total cosmic power.

-Perform some training operations with the local Rekesh forces, see how they're getting on.

-Strengthening Ni Ahni's position in the civilian government/lay the groundwork for converting it to a more Dominion friendly state. House Rekesh?

-Investigate repairing the Builder ship/bringing it up to 100% capacity.

-See what Sam and Dave are up to? They've been helpful.

>>3915484
>Destroyed builder site
Is that the cultural archive that was mentioned?

>>3915484
>Many details are still missing but what is certain is that there is no life or technology to be found there.
If I had to design an escape pod or vault that can survive a situation like that, I would definitely use the dimension shift technology the containment facility was built around. It might be worth a try to look for that.

>>3915519
I believe there may be time for us to proceed with the enchancment procedure. It's been what? Two months now since the first batch got both the bodily enchantment and the mind power one and I've yet to hear of any negative effects from it. Better now while thing are calm if you ask me. We also got our "save file" in the machine so we can do a full body restore if worst comes to worst.

Should try to cooperate a bit with the Rekesh governemnt as well. We are allies after all. Need to cultivate that good will. Both in them and the population.

Lay plans on how we intend to sell this whole ordeal to the entirety of Faction space. We've got the groundwork laid down with the Krath, Rovinar and the Rekesh. Now we just need to seal the deal so to speak.

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>>3914337
>A super with the spinal section replaced by salvaged ascendancy heavy cruisers. The structurally stronger middle houses a super railgun or one of the other weird and rare super heavy Helios gun designs but upscaled to ultra heavy size.
It's super slow and horribly cumbersome but I like to think the stars aligned and the alliance had several cored ascendancy class ships and a super that got effectively cut in half by a scorcher or something like that available.
You CAN put something very big or a lot of stuff in the middle and it should be reasonably well protected.

>>3916028
I'm worried about the jamming device for neeran and augmented people the empire deployed during their attack on the Rekesh facility. Until we find a way to block that thing or immunize telepaths, I'm against upgrading Sonia.

>>3916028

Unless we have a means to nullify or reduce the effects of the jamming device which has so far been able to knock out both Light Neeran and Caretaker Neeran and our own Caretaker upgraded soldiers. I don't want to risk it. The Empire Neeran have found a way to ignore its effects. Which means there is a way for us to be able to ignore its effects, but until such means or process is figured out. I'd rather not put such an glaring weak point into Sonia. Where all the enemy needs to do is flip a switch on a device hidden who knows how far a way. And suddenly Sonia and all our special upgraded forces are down for the count.

>>3916146

The cylinder of death approaches!

>>3916146
That thing was a communications amplifier inside the ancient Neeran city ship, I feel like they might not be able to replicate it.

They used something similar which knocked out everyone, humans included, when they disrupted that peace conference right? I think it was the Neeran ship's interface system, so maybe it's irrelevant whether we augment or not.

>>3914027
I got here late.

But what about the Gurren Drill Super Boarding ship?

Why expose your valuable troops to enemy fire? A small corvette class ship that has anti-tank weapons and a big fucking drill bit in the front.

Finds a hole in enemy armor and drills THROUGH supers before stopping to become a hard defensive bunker to prevent repairs.

>>3916490
>what about the Gurren Drill Super Boarding ship?
Oh yes, the boarding pod with the plasma cutters and stuff. I remember that.

Roll 1d100

Rolled 33 (1d100)

>>3917234

Rolled 4 (1d100)

>>3917234

Drills to pierce their hulls!

>>3915536
>Check with the RH Baron see if he is going to be heading back with us or if he's got other tasks to take care of.
It seems he's going to remain on station as it wont be necessary for his super to escort artifacts back to Dominion space. Some of his people will be transferred or rotated out but the majority will remain here.

>Check with our two special operatives to see what their status is.
I'm drawing a blank for some reason. Please specify which ones you mean?

Wait, do you mean the volunteers that were the first to test the caretaker human upgrades? If so they're doing quite well. There was no permanent damage as a result of the mental attack the Empire forces used.
They continue to increase their capabilities though it's a slow process. They're also helping to train a few of the other volunteers that were given similar enhancements.


>See if anyone has found a way to resist or counteract that jamming device that downed our specialist with caretaker upgrades.
They have a rough idea of what is necessary to power and make use of it. Unfortunately it's all theory at this point as the device will almost certainly kill the user. That's what the prisoners in the slave restraints were likely for.

Better news is that the Empire Neeran had developed a blocking technique that would make them mostly immune to the effects of the jamming device. Unfortunately it renders them unable to use most of their abilities. Which was actually working in your favour for a lot of the boarding action. Infiltrators were unable to hide properly for instance.

Efforts are being made to try and get the necessary information to perform the blocking ability out of any prisoners.

I'll see about getting a post together before work tomorrow.

I'm off Wednesday and Thursday so hoping to make some progress then.

Rolled 33 (1d100)

>>3917234
K

>>3917235
WhyYYYYYYYyyýyyyýyuyyýyy

>>3917406
>>3917237
>>3917235
It would seem development and approval of such boarding vehicles is running a bit behind. Possibly because they compete with SP boarding pods that are already proven to be effective. With the cutter equipped pods they'd need some way to get through the shields and that would require a heavy torpedos worth of SP coating.

>Which Baron are we handing Forbearance off to?
Barons Myrish Avun, L'ak Tenni and Fredric Saputo are on the way to your location. Saputo is tasked with control of the various House penal units. Because of this, and Xisoth staying behind, his group is over strength having been bolstered by the composite force.
While he's away Barons Archivald and Dremine will ensure that Torun remains under control.

>>3915711
>Test out caretaker enhancement? Assuming the medical suite can revert Sonia to a previous 'state', there's no reason to not try it.
There have been no attempts to undo the changes so far and signs point to it being fairly difficult to remove them.

>>3917666
>signs point to it being fairly difficult to remove them.
That's a shame. I guess no cosmic Sonia for a while then.

>>3917666

Random thought/ idea. Why not have a meetup with J-D Barons who are going to be part of the third wave. Meet with the RH Baron with us or with a couple of RH Barons who will also be going out in the third wave? Get our friends and allies other in roads and connections with the RH. And also so they can meet face to face some of those they will be working with. Sure it will be a hassel to pull off. But I imagine if people back home are worried that the RH might claim J-D yards and such. Then having our Barons mingle with the RH Barons could prove advantageous to JD and keeping those yards under our control.

Just make it one of those non-mandatory invitations, where it is an open offer and it won't be held against you if you decline. But you will be missing out on opportunities that could help you advance either socially, economically, politically and militarily. Also be nice to get word from the mouth of our fellow Barons what their opinion is on the situation at home. Oh, and give them a chance to mingle with Rekesh if we want to include them too. Hell have a ball on the front lines, why not?

>>3915519
I want super Sonia. Gib them fancy body mods. It's time for Psyker Sonia in order to bring a whole new level of headache for everyone in the House.

>>3920258
> Hell have a ball on the front lines, why not?

I mean. We are well experienced in Power Armor ballet.

>>3915711
>Perform some training operations with the local Rekesh forces, see how they're getting on.
Those who survived the fighting against the Ulgean fleet are doing quite well. Vehicle losses have been quickly replaced for the most part, with the exception being Heavy cruisers. Shipyards are tying to rush repairs on more.
Given the beating their heavies took in a real fight the Rekesh government is looking at investing more in medium cruisers. Even if the results of the battle were a bit skewed due to being up against super heavies.

Their main mobile army is somewhat untested. The PDF on Threochts planet performed fairly well and as a result some of their officers are being recruited for the army.

With these points in mind you arrange a series of exercises for the fleet and ground forces. Units that will be accompanying Phas Rah'ne work as part of a combined unit detached from the forces of either fleet.

Mass fleet and planetary assault exercises are carried out with the Rekesh and J-D forces trading places or working together as part for a larger group. When the Rekesh are on the offensive Forbearance acts as a stand in for one of the Ulgean super carries that are being rebuilt.

By the time the leading elements of the other J-D fleets begin to arrive in the region the Rekesh are in a much better position militarily. Their civilian population and government have not been too pleased at times with the scale of the exercises that have been performed. Worlds that had been untouched by fighting even in the rebellion were suddenly faced with their skies being filled by landing craft.

Ni Ahni is growing frustrated with small but vocal minority in the government who dont see the use of the exercises. As far as they're concerned the war is leaving this region. Fortunately others are far more pragmatic. Local threats alone are reason enough to ensure they have a strong standing experienced military.

>Strengthening Ni Ahni's position in the civilian government/lay the groundwork for converting it to a more Dominion friendly state. House Rekesh?
Diplomats from the Ruling House are doing what they can on this front, but they're being careful not to overstep their boundaries. This may be one of those times where your deep pockets could come in handy. Making sure Ni Ahni has the private financial reserves to be more of a force in the political arena might help. Too much though and it might become obvious that he's being propped up by the Dominion.

>>3920491
>This may be one of those times where your deep pockets could come in handy. Making sure Ni Ahni has the private financial reserves to be more of a force in the political arena might help.
What if we were to make funding available for Ni Ahni to use to invest and build up local companies? He'd get control of them via shares, we'd eventually get our investment back, and maintain Dominion interests.

>Investigate repairing the Builder ship/bringing it up to 100% capacity.
This is being looked into. The wormhole generator is mostly operational though how safe it is to use in its current state is an issue. Right now there isn't a way to work on the most heavily damaged sections. With the recovered cutting tools it's possible to remove damaged areas but not put them back.

An area of the internal north polar city is being set aside for use to construct a docking pit for the ship to land in for repairs. Its hoped that once the crews have learned enough about the conversion beams they can build the necessary tools to affect repairs.

>See what Sam and Dave are up to? They've been helpful.
Their day to day remains quite busy. Helping to guard the surface entrance against enemy infiltrators is a task that wont end any time soon. It's the same with work aboard the ship and elsewhere in the interior. They're both getting a bit exhausted but neither of them are willing to take leave while there is so much important work to be done.
Seems they're happy witht he way things are going at present.

>>3915711
>Destroyed builder site
>Is that the cultural archive that was mentioned?
After looking over some of the debris that was salvaged and brought back for translation the Caretakers believe it to be from a habitat structure. Nothing the size of the sphere of course but it could have easily encircled the planet at high altitude if the amount of debris is any indication. That might explain the foundations of space elevators being present.

>>3920517
That would probably be one of the more discreet ways.

>>3916028
>enchancment procedure
>>3916146
>I'm worried about the jamming device for neeran and augmented people the empire deployed
>>3916221
>I don't want to risk it.
>>3918002
>That's a shame. I guess no cosmic Sonia for a while then.

Enhancement stuff!

With everything going on you may not get another chance to visit the builder ship and see about getting the caretaker enhancement any time soon. There are upsides and downsides to getting it. Power for one, and a vulnerability to that anti-neeran weapon deployed by the Empire. Your allies are working on a counter to the weapon but the Empire has had the better part of 2 decades to perfect their own techniques. It probably wont happen overnight.

Any interest in the caretaker enhancement at this time? It seemed like most were leaning towards no but people change their minds.

[ ] Yes
[ ] No / not at this time

>>3920546
>[ ] Yes
Ah fuck it, let's just go for it.

>>3920546
>[ ] No / not at this time
Nah. Overreliance on enchantments can create situations where a single weakness can be exploited to bring everyone down.

>>3920546
[ ] No

>>3920546
>[ ] Yes
Yes. I want it so much. The war is pretty much over in any case. The chance that we deploy in a battle where enough Light Neeran are gathered for them to deploy the weapon is rather slim at this point.

>>3920546
>[ ] No / not at this time

>>3920546
>[ ] No / not at this time

Not at this time. It's to big a weakness. And if the Alliance or any Faction designs anti-Neeran technology. All our enemies back home would need to do to disable and kill us. Is have deep pockets. Invite us somewhere and activate the device and kill us while we're incapacitated.

Not at this time looks like. The disadvantages outweigh the potential gains at this time. For now you'll focus on more practical concerns.

The J-D Barons have begun to arrive. Avun is first along with her heavy carrier Righteous Intent. She's glad to see that you're well and reports that Baron Nel'odym is keeping a close eye on things in the Run while the two of you are absent. Even with so many warships and transports being shifted into Neeran territory the Run remains a busy trade lane. Even her world continues to benefit despite being off the lane itself.

Rioja is doing well under the constant supervision of those you left in charge there. The economy is doing well. Your spymaster laments how few suits of recon armor are available for use against potential threats. Verilis has kept the training units in check and saw to organizing the replacement ships you ordered.
Avun even visited your kids before departing, telling them a (slightly exaggerated) tale of how you once rescued her from pirates.

L'ak Tenni is the next to arrive along with a Qlippoth heavy carrier. The same one that RSS fought to get out of the Loran system before rebels could capture it in the uprising. Checking the House fleet data you find that it's crewed mostly by people from Desh Xisoth's fleet. Clearly some trust issues regarding Tenni remain.
It looks like quite a few penal units have been transferred to her as well for one reason or another.

Saputo's much larger fleet is last of the major units to arrive. Although he has no heavy warships there are plenty of mediums like EBON to help protect the transport units. Additional escort ships to help protect Forbearance have also been brought along. While glad to see you the Baron doesn't want to waste much time and requests that the handover for Forbearance begin immediately in case there are any delays. You cant blame him really, the fleet isn't going anywhere without its big centerpiece.

There was talk of holding a ball I believe. Where would you like to have it take place? This could be an opportunity to build closer ties with the various states in this galaxy. Alternatively it might be taken by some as the Dominion trying to show who is in charge.

[ ] Threochts planet
[ ] Rekesh capital
[ ] Southern Provisional Territory
[ ] North Coalition
[ ] West Liberation Bloc
[ ] Hold an informal event on Forbearance

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>>3920670
Somewhere in this area? It's a central location, I think some of the systems were planning to stay neutral if possible, and we're not here to play favorites.

>>3920670
[ ] Southern Provisional Territory
We don't want to overstep with the Rekesh, whom we already have good relations with. Should continue building with the South to ensure this corner of the galaxy is Dominion friendly

>>3920670

>[ ] Rekesh capital

tl;dr, Rekesh Capital to help boost knowledge of Rekesh beyond just this galaxy. And a chance to help with getting the Rekesh more interested in becoming a Dominion House.

Sure it could be seen as the Dominion trying to display itself over Rekesh. But I think with enough word from the RH diplomat and maybe a good word from the Rovinar diplomat. And maybe even something said from the Alliance. It would help bring attention to the Rekesh and better establish them as an ally that needs to be defended. And also give the people in the Factions a chance to interact with the those they are fighting to free from the Neeran.

Plus it draws a ton of business to the Rekesh economy. Hosting a ball on their world would be one hell of a way to get their business known outside their galaxy. Could probably sell it to the local Rekesh businesses as an opportunity to get their names out there in other ways beyond relying upon the Alliance. And it gives the Dominion an chance to have more people invest in the Rekesh and better introduce the Rekesh to Dominion culture and hopefully further them along the path towards becoming a house.

>>3920670
>[ ] Threochts planet

>>3920670
>>3920714

Threochts is also a suitable alternative if a tie breaker is needed. Just need to make sure guards at the base are aware and to make sure no body sneaks into or around the base that should not be there.

>>3920670
> [ ] Southern Provisional Territory

They're on second best terms with us, and we can bring Ni Ahni along to make investments as our local representative, keeping a step between our funding of him and Rekesh politics while also getting a gun in the door to the economy of the second most stable faction.

In fact we should be trying to tie their econony closer for an eventual subsumption like with the EU.

>>3920685
Changing my vote to the Southern Provisional Territory, in case that's what keeps things from continuing.

>>3920868
I'm just really slow figuring out what I want to write.

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>>3920877
That's okay. When in doubt, write about a tub of grog.

You make arrangements for events to be held at a suitable venue in the Southern Provisional Territory. Their new capital has had some time to rebuild since liberation, though much of their efforts are still focused on defense. Your promises of an opportunity for business owners and entrepreneurs to acquire funds and other investment opportunities gets the attention of many.

In addition to the Barons and nobles under their command special care is taken to invite Ni Ahni and the Rekesh ambassador to the southern territories. When word of this gets around there is a flurry of talk among the well connected and influential of both nations. Some see this as meddling in the internal affairs of either side but you stress that this sort of get together is a common occurrence in the Dominion. It's expected of you to host a party for the Barons of ones own House. For you not to invite other influential figures of the region would be considered a slight against them.

The hardest part of preparations turns out to be arranging music with an actual band as opposed to simply recordings. A few local group are hired playing variations of music found through the region. Not quite the same but close enough, and shows that those from the Dominion are prepared to support cultures from the worlds in this galaxy.
Avun and Tenni aren't sure what to think of it though Fredric Saputo seems to find it amusing.

You and the Barons are among the first to arrive. It gives you ample opportunity to introduce Ni Ahni and allow them to talk before the majority of guests take up their time. Avun and Suputo in particular have more things to discuss given their different backgrounds. Both are old nobility and had seen much of the Dominion long before you had even enlisted. As a result their viewpoints are quite a bit different from yours. Tenni meanwhile is more or less from your generation.

Guests arrive in larger numbers than you were really expecting, though they're still well within the contingency planning. Most are dressed in the Empire's equivalent to business suits. Which to your eyes looks like a cross between civilian noble dress wear and utility workers outfit. Very plain overall but with an odd cut that is in some ways familiar.

The mercenary Ren arives in similar looking clothes, but ones that have been updated with elements clearly taken from both Trayan and Dominion uniforms. If not for the various insignia identifying him as an Admiral of the Southern Provisional Territory you would have taken him for a rather poshly dressed pirate.

"I take it your new position is treating you well?"
"Aside from having to wait on arguing politicians to make up their minds it's everything I could have hoped. The government is so fractured I can do as I want. If they dont like it I've told them they're free to dismiss me from service. If they do I'll also be taking all of the ships I own with me."

So nothing's really changed with him it seems.

Anyone in particular you want to talk to or things to discuss?

>>3920985

>Anyone in particular you want to talk to or things to discuss?

Any up and coming entrepreneurs or business opportunities for us to listen to or take interest in?

Try and see if there is someone from the Southern Territories beyond just Ren. We can talk to to get an idea for companies we can invest in. Though we can use Ren to vouch either for or against them as needed.

Try and get someone from the Alliance to talk about their plans in the region.

>>3920985
>Anyone in particular you want to talk to or things to discuss?
Ask Ren if he's given thought about diversifying his power base. Ships and crews are great most of the time but not all of the time.
The ambassadors of the local powers.
The fleet commanders of the local powers if any of them are present.
See if we can talk to some civilians. I think we haven't really dealt with most of the local cultures.

>>3920985
>things to discuss
Have they given thought to the idea of standardizing certain ship classes among the local states? If the Ulgeans ever attack, being able to supply, crew, and repair larger ships in all territories could prove useful.

>>3920985
I want to sound out their position relative to the Ulgean fledgling Empire, thoughts on a unified response towards any aggression from them, plans for economic trade relations.

Kinda make the point that despite fears of Dominion involvement, we wpuld rather hve a stable region to trade with rather than waste our resources defending planets we don't own - especially when we're in a position to outright acquire territory from the Neeran empire from planets that weren't as in good shape as the local cluster. Or at least weren't as willing to throw off the Imperial yoke.

They've earned their independence, and while we're happy to stabilize them we aren't Space Police.

>Ask Ren if he's given thought about diversifying his power base. Ships and crews are great most of the time but not all of the time.
"I'm a mercenary from a culture full of mercenaries Viscount. I like what I do. I'm no fool, I know the value of such things, but I'm not going to invest in anything I cant take with me. That's much easier to do now with the mobile base. When the government here stops being so provisional and they kick me out I'll return to Trayan space with what I've earned. Then I'll reassess my career options."

>Try and see if there is someone from the Southern Territories beyond just Ren. We can talk to to get an idea for companies we can invest in. Though we can use Ren to vouch either for or against them as needed.
Ren helpfully points out a few officials who he's learned cant be trusted. Nobody you care for should go into business with them if it can be helped.

>Any up and coming entrepreneurs or business opportunities for us to listen to or take interest in?
Being a figure recognized by the officials it's difficult for you to get much time in looking for investment opportunities yourself. Fortunately you have both people for that and Ni Ahni. When the government heads from the south realise the Rekesh military leader wont be contributing much to the political discussions over territory they largely leave him be.

A few Knights who accompanied you forward some prospects your way. Many are hoping to expand the south's military industrial complex and rebuild from damage inflicted by your raiders or the Neeran in the rebellion or their withdrawal. Most of it is the usual, shipyards, material production, so on and so forth.
Where your watchful Knights really prevail is when they find those looking for investment in more civilian aligned areas. Like the others they're trying to play up military applications but their real use is being able to thrive in both peace and war, not just one or the other. Civilian electronics, chemicals and repulsor component manufacture are just a few.

>Cont.

>Try and get someone from the Alliance to talk about their plans in the region.
You manage to spot a member of the Alliance diplomatic corps who may have been mistaken for someone from the Dominion. Fortunately a few that are in the know are trying to help him out.

It would seem your own questions mirror that of several others present. The Alliance hopes to be able to establish long term defensive pacts throughout the region to deter future aggression by the Ulgean Hegemony or the Neeran Empire if the worst should happen. As long as either remain a threat the Alliance intends to keep a permanent presence in this galaxy.

"You dont believe the Alliance will fall apart after the war is over?" asks Avun.
"The Factions may go back to bickering among themselves once the Neeran are defeated but our mandate would remain unchanged. As long as powers like the Empire or Hegemony exist they're a threat to Faction space and the Alliance will continue to guard against them. Who knows what else is out there?"

The diplomat may have a point. If the Empire collapses there's no telling what sort of successor states might be left in its wake. You know about the Ulgean and Kythera but there could be many more. It's doubtful the Factions Alliance is going to disappear overnight.

>The fleet commanders of the local powers if any of them are present.
Aside from your House, Ren and Ni Ahni are about it among those who showed up.

>standardizing certain ship classes among the local states? If the Ulgeans ever attack, being able to supply, crew, and repair larger ships in all territories could prove useful.
There is talk of both the FTL equipped Neeran corvettes you've provided production data on, as well as others. Most are not in a position develop new warships from scratch right now. Which means relying on whatever designs and production they can get their hands on from the remains of the Empire yards. Standardization is a long term goal but right now the priority are simply getting the numbers they need.
Another problem is that the Alliance, Rekesh and Ulgean forces are the only ones with intact heavy cruiser facilities or larger in the galaxy. It's unlikely the Rekesh will be selling heavy warships to the other powers in the galaxy for at least a couple of years.

>ambassadors of the local powers
Of course eventually conversation rolls around to the political situation regarding border disputes and such. The Rekesh and South Provisional governments have still not reached a final agreement on the extent of their borders as well as 2 contested systems.

Another pressing issue is that of the independent systems. Some are still pressing to be allowed self rule and wish to become full members of the proposed defensive pacts. 3 such areas have now joined the west after lengthy negotiations. The most powerful potential independent region is in talks with the Rekesh regarding status as a special autonomous region. Others are seemingly going nowhere.

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>>3921273
Do you wish to comment on the state of the border disputes or keep your mouth shut?

>>3921278
Slowly whisper to Ni Ahni "Yang Alliance."

If he could get a Run Alliance type deal started, that would give him a good head start on political connections.

>>3921269
>>3921273
>>3921278

Keep mouth shut. We're leaving, let someone else deal with that mess. Either the RH can do something to advance the Rekesh/ Dominion interest there. Or the FA will do so. Either way, not our place.

>Ren helpfully points out a few officials who he's learned cant be trusted. Nobody you care for should go into business with them if it can be helped.

That's very helpful, lets avoid them and pass on said suggested people to avoid to the RH rep and Rekesh diplomat. They might like to know whom to avoid or not trust.

>Where your watchful Knights really prevail is when they find those looking for investment in more civilian aligned areas. Like the others they're trying to play up military applications but their real use is being able to thrive in both peace and war, not just one or the other. Civilian electronics, chemicals and repulsor component manufacture are just a few.

See how much those companies are will to share stock/ value wise to outside sources. And put a small investment in them. Not something huge, but enough so that if something changes in the future. It wont hurt us to cut losses. But could give us an avenue into getting more from them if things take off.

>>3921278
I would prefer not to get involved. If the local powers want to be treated like adults in the future they'll have to demonstrate they cabln solve situations like this one without starting the next war before the current one is even finished.

>>3921273
>Another problem is that the Alliance, Rekesh and Ulgean forces are the only ones with intact heavy cruiser facilities or larger in the galaxy.
Can the Moradin be assembled from parts constructed in medium cruiser yards? The sections kinda look like they could be preassembled and then linked up into a larger ship without requiring the amount of large scale infrastructure usually required for ships of that size.

>>3921269
>I'll return to Trayan space with what I've earned. Then I'll reassess my career options
Has trayan space been liberate or are they nit part of the empire?

>>3921278
I think it's best if we just listen. Doesn't reqlly have much to do with us.

I'm far more concerned with Ulgean penetration of non-Rekesh factions here, this place is ripe for a proxy war.

>>3921273
Also can we find anyone doing business with the Ulgeans and use them as a channel to also do business with them?

I mean, yeah, we had some conflict with them but that's just politics.

>Keep mouth shut.
>I would prefer not to get involved.
>just listen
>let Ni Ahni handle it

Having put your foot in your mouth on a number of occasions you decide to bow out and let the locals deal with the issues of border disputes themselves. It's why you have career diplomats around to help you figure out such problems when absolutely necessary. This certainly isnt a problem thats necessary for you to personally fix.

Once clear of that potential fiasco you talk with Ni Ahni about the possibility that he could work to establish a more permanent alliance in the region. It would certainly provide more connections.

>>3921300
>See how much those companies are will to share stock/ value wise to outside sources.
Most are trying to sell enough stock to get their operations back up and running but not so much that they'd lose control of their companies.
It wouldn't cost you very much, but then you might want to leave more opportunities for your allies to invest.

>>3921302
>Can the Moradin be assembled from parts constructed in medium cruiser yards?
In theory, though having a heavy cruiser dock to assemble it all makes things go much more smoothly.

>Has trayan space been liberate or are they nit part of the empire?
It has recently been liberated.

>>3921334
>I'm far more concerned with Ulgean penetration of non-Rekesh factions here, this place is ripe for a proxy war.
Fortunately the Ulgean have developed a rather poor reputation among most other other client species. For the moment the majority are reluctant to work with them. this should make it harder for them to exert influence for now.

>>3921339
>Also can we find anyone doing business with the Ulgeans and use them as a channel to also do business with them?
For the above reasons that will be difficult. There may be some in the North Coalition that are more prepared to do so as one of the worlds they claim as a core territory is currently held by the Ulgean. A short trade lane straddles the border there. For the moment the border is closed though some ships smuggling refugees across to your side have made it through.

>See if we can talk to some civilians. I think we haven't really dealt with most of the local cultures.
The south is a real jumble, most of their worlds having been settled by the Empire with multiple client species. Rekesh, Gadaran, Trayan, Shallan and even small numbers of Ulgean are the most easily recognizable ones. A few planets including the capital even have small populations of Spikers that were left behind when the Empire evacuated.
Most of the civilians you talk to are business owners who clearly are more used to dealing with Neeran being in charge. Some are still getting used to the idea of people around their size being the most influential in the room. Others have clearly been waiting for this for a long time.

One thing quickly becomes apparent when the bar is opened up later in the evening. You can't hold your liquor as well as you used to. Maybe the enhancements or having +15 years knocked off your biological age has also done something to the tolerance for alcohol you've built up over the years. Troy confirms that he has noticed the same, having switched over to water to sober up.

>>3921512

>Cant hold liquor.

Didn't Winifred point out our arm could filter out alcohol? Or did we never think to get that upgrade? Also, could get said filter to also filter out poisons.

>>3921522
>Didn't Winifred point out our arm could filter out alcohol?
That was a different arm. You're using the indestructible builder material arm these days.

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Despite this setback you make it through the evening without incident. Though without having had a chance to sample many of the local drinks.

The Rekesh ambassador seems pleased overall with the event and asks if it might be possible for you to disregard any comments members of their government back home might have made. It was after all your event and not any of their business who you chose to invite. Though a bit odd by Rekesh and southern standards, events like these could prove useful in strengthening relations between the local powers and their economies in the future.

It was also a good opportunity for you to get used to seeing the various species of the Empire in person in a setting where they weren't shooting at you or threatening you or being menacing. Though the surprise of encountering an Ulgean doorman was quickly eclipsed by a few Spiker civilians that were hoping to raise money for passage off world. Your translators aren't really set up for their odd chittering noises so at first it scared the hell out of you.

A day and a half later the transfer of personnel to and from Forbearance is completed. There were some minor delays due to field modifications of a few systems that the new crew needed to be brought up to speed on. A few volunteers will be staying on to make sure there aren't any problems. Saputo promises they'll all get plenty of time learning what tweaks have been made over the past few months before deployment.

Before the three Barons set out you get a quiet request from Saputo to send over SP Torpedo decoys if you can spare any. The older Baron promises he'll pay you back with interest at a later time just as long as there is no record of the transfer.

Maybourne of course has an idea of what's up.
"He's going to "misplace" some of the warheads the Alliance gives his fleet and swap them for the decoys."
This is most certainly illegal.

[ ] The House could certainly use those torps...
[ ] We'd better not annoy the Alliance

>>3921684

>[ ] The House could certainly use those torps...

We lost a few ships fighting the Neeran and Ulgeans. A few were most likely carrying SP Torp Decoys when they were lost. And their supplies likely scattered to the solar wind. If any plucky scavengers found them and tried to sell them off to Saputo. Well there's nothing we could really do there to stop them, now is there?

>>3921684
>[ ] The House could certainly use those torps...

Resuming tomorrow. Hopefully I can get my shit together and get rolling.

>>3921684
>[ ] We'd better not annoy the Alliance

>>3921684
[ ] The House could certainly use those torps...
I am fine with doing him this favor. He should just keep in mind to not get caught and that if he is he is thrown under the bus. Which seems only obvious now that I type it out but still.

I mean, I doubt we would do this ourselves. We might even have yelled at people who did this during the Maelstrom Campaign. But it doesn't hurt us to gain bonus points with Saputo.

On that note, I wonder how the SP project aquisition is going so far.

>>3921684
>Maybourne of course has an idea of what's up.
No, Maybourne doesn't,
>"He's going to "misplace" some of the warheads the Alliance gives his fleet and swap them for the decoys."
>This is most certainly illegal.
It would be, if we had any idea this might be happening.
We don't.
>[ ] The House could certainly use those torps...
>[ ] We'd better not annoy the Alliance
We don't have to pick because we don't know anything about this. We'd definitely not want to annoy the Alliance as long as we need their support, though.

>>3921684
>[x] We'd better not annoy the Alliance
I'd prefer if we keep our clean track record with the alliance.
However, if people insist on supplying Saputo, maybe printing decoys with the sphere pads is a smarter way than trying to provide them from our existing stockpile?
We do have full manufacturing data on them.

>>3921684

> [ ] The House could certainly use those torps...

Pft. Saputo is taking the risk, and worst comes to worst we can just pay his way out. We're rich, bitches! If that does happen, then we'll own Saputo anyways if we bail him out so really it's a win-win for us.

>>3922000
You DIDN'T see a transfer request because it's not there!

Thinking about it, an event like this provides perfect cover for when the Terran kill-teams come knocking. They'll look at us being blatantly Dominion, trying to steal a small portion of SP torpedoes, and think we had no idea about the upcoming developments.

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"Keep this quiet. Use decoys that were salvaged from our destroyed or crippled ships. No records." you instruct Maybourne.
"I'll take care of it."

A captured transport ship is used to make a number of runs to different systems gathering the necessary equipment and then handing it off to your ally. Maybourne doesn't tell you any of the details just that it's done.

Before departure Rah'na requisitions the 6th neeran modular base that you had previously loaned to the Rovinar. They returned it once their supply train caught up and local threats began to die down. With their station, ECM ship and fast mediums the unit forms up with the other J-D forces as they set out for the final staing area with the other Alliance fleets.

"Good luck all of you."

With the departure of the House fleets you need to make plans in case the Rioja fleet should be called up. A lot of your assets are tied down assisting with manufacturing or on loan to the various powers. Ships given to the Rekesh via lend lease are taken care of. Ren has already paid you back in salvage. The Dominion Knights have been strengthened with the older model Shukhant given to them.

Two main issues remain. First is the defectors like Gun and Viq. Their ECM ships are valuable but as far as they're concerned they've done their bit and those ships are theirs. They also have something of a claim to more than a few vessels they helped capture and salvage to bulk up their units.

Second is the False Flag unit you built up. It's still acting acting as a sort of centralized training unit for personnel from the various groups in the galaxy. Predictably recruitment has dropped off but it remains a valuable unit as a response force that isn't Alliance or Rekesh controlled.

1) What ships did you want to allow Gun and Viq to hang onto? As former enemy combatants who are not registered with any government or mercenary unit you could simply take all of their shit. That would be dick move though.
Their claims on the battleships and mixed wings of Neeran craft are a bit less solid, but they are largely crewed by their own personnel.

1A) Take their ships (Do you have a plan as for why?)
1B) They can keep the ships they started with
1C) Honor their claims
1D) They deserve to be rewarded (give more ships)

2) What will you do with the flase flag / training unit? Those ships represent a considerable investment in time and resources it took to repair them. They're worth quite a bit of money which could help pay down ongoing deployment costs for the fleet. They could even be brought home to be refit and sold at a later time.

2A) Those ships are yours, they're going with you
2B) Sell or lend lease to local governments (split between them)
2C) Sell / lend to West as they're the weakest
2D) Sell / lend to North to deter the Ulgeans
2E) Sell to Alliance to establish joint taskforce
2F) Use to establish joint taskforce (donate)

>>3922463

>1C) Honor their claims

>2E) Sell to Alliance to establish joint taskforce

>>3922463
>1C) Honor their claims

>2A) Those ships are yours, they're going with you

>>3922463
1C) Honor their claims
Keep cultivating that goodwill with everyone we can

2B) Sell or lend lease to local governments (split between them)
Cultivate goodwill and relations with Rekesh and the South as well

>>3922463
>1C) Honor their claims
People always treated us well when we were in their position, we should do the same now that it's our turn.

>2E) Sell to Alliance to establish joint taskforce
The locals have to get their shit together and this seems like the way that will most likely make it work.

>>3922463
> 1A) Take their ships (Do you have a plan as for why?)

They're warships. They're for war. If they don't want to participate in war, fine, we'll pay them out. They'll need money to get set up with whatever else they want to do, right? We can get then whatever civilian amount of stuff they want. Or maybe there's something they want off the books, something only a Noble of the Dominion with extensive resources and contacts can get. Like maybe people left behind in the Neeran Empire.

>>3922463
>>3922677

> 2C) Sell / lend to West as they're the weakest

And least likely to take our ships for that reason.

>>3913235
What about a series of supers that can transmit and receive power? EvE capacitor chaining style.

You'd have a siege-weaponless, over-sized reactor super with microwave power transmitters, and receiver supers with oversized equipment they normally couldn't power. Form them into a super-cell and have the transmitters in the center, and then when any of the receivers come under fire, boost power to them to increase defenses or to ships firing on enemy units.

Calling up both of the defector commanders you inform them of your decision to honor their claims to the two mixed wings and battleship squadron. How they divide those up between themselves is up to them. What you do recommend is that if they dont intend to join the local forces they should register with one of the faction mercenary guilds. At least that way nobody can simply accuse them of piracy and take their equipment.

"We've been thinking about that," admits Gun. "I doubt we'll get along very well but joining up with Mezan seems like the best chance of seeing one of the Shallan worlds again some day."

"You'll be making enemies with the Shallan State by doing so."

Gun shrugs off your warning. "They sound like a bunch of dicks anyways. Besides they're occupying my homeworld. Odds are they'd probably try to arrest us either way if we go back there. Better if we just declare for the other side and get all of that shit out in the open."

That's their choice you guess.

It takes awhile for you to arrive at a decision for what to do with the training unit. The ships could be useful back home or sold to the various governments here via lend lease. On the other hand the Alliance would probably appreciate anything to help with their efforts towards the formation of a regional defensive pact. You wont be sticking around here personally for years to make sure that happens so it would be best to sell the training fleet to the Alliance right now.

The first Alliance commander you talk to initially seems reluctant to have such a heavily armed force running around. Their superiors however are far more enthusiastic, looking for political connections between the groups. As this would be a joint group not belonging to any one power the Alliance will have them stationed at the former Neeran fleet base, ready to help counter moves against the more weakly defended territories.

You'll be compensated for the ships handed over, though for now it will have to be in the form of Alliance war bonds. Not exactly ideal but they are still treated as a perfectly acceptable medium for trade. Some merchants are actually going out of their way to buy up war bonds from other parties. Maybe they intend to cash in on them years down the line? For now it will do.

>cont.

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>>3922767
Lastly there is still some more salvage to parse out. Some were from salvage that simply took a long time to complete repairs, others were captured from the Ulgean at Threochts planet. The Rekesh of course were given full claims to the Ulgean Supers but some of the Shoal class ships could be of use to you. There aren't enough crew available to take them into combat yourself but the House could get use out of them.

There are also the Neeran modular stations you collected through the campaign. 4 of the 5 you have are now outfitted with drive units built in the field to allow them to relocate more quickly and easily. They're not the fastest but they can keep up with transport craft that move your Faction built station sections.

>>3922771
The Shoal seems like a ship that would probably serve best with the barons who are currently stuck with low profit worlds or regions. It's more or less a Lance class that's harder to upgrade but significantly less fragile, right?

>>3922771

>Sell/ Keep/ Gift

Can we please get some options for who would like what? And what their offers would be to purchase or what favors they would be willing to give for gifts?

>>3922767

>Alliance War Bonds

Can we trade these for SP Torps?

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>>3922824
>Sonia has access to top secret insider information that the SP torp bubble is likely going to burst in the intermediate future
>LET'S BUY SP TORPS!!!! OUT WITH THE SHIPS IN WITH THE TORPS!111111
Are you from /biz/?

>>3922761
Similar to the Kavarian siege formation. Not a bad idea but it would be lacking in redundancy given the size of battle groups the Alliance prefers to operate. It would work better with the larger formations used by the old Kavarian Union.

>>3922798
>more or less a Lance class that's harder to upgrade but significantly less fragile, right?
Essentially yes.

>>3922824
>Can we trade these for SP Torps?
Not at this time.

>Can we please get some options for who would like what? And what their offers would be to purchase or what favors they would be willing to give for gifts?
That is precisely what I had hoped to avoid. Give me a few minutes.

>Stations
Everybody and anybody would want the stations with Frigate or Battleship construction facilities attached to them. Probably even you I imagine given their mobility. Unlike the others the West needs them as opposed to just wanting them. That doesn't mean they'd be able to pay for them given the state of their economy.
The mobile ones are useful for fleets operating away from heavy carriers for any extended period. You dont have Forbearance anymore which mean you're missing its many repair pads. Consider keeping some.

The fuel refinery would be good for anyone operating in regions where infrastructure has been destroyed and hasn't recovered yet. Useful to you, the west, north and south. Only the Rekesh have no need for it.

>Ships
The Rekesh are mainly focused on slower ships like heavies and suitable escort craft like the Shoal. They already have lots. More would increase their power.

The other powers are hurting for larger warships like mediums or larger since their production was so badly hit.

House J-D could find uses for any of the mediums to help strengthen the other Barons. The Qlippoth could also be refit back home for use with assault corvettes. For now it's set up for maintaining Neeran ships. Good for anything captured.

You dont really need any of the captured battleships or corvettes unless you wanted to save them for false flag, infiltration or OPFOR duties.

>>3922905
Would the Rekesh be willing to sell a production license for their frigates to the western nation for use with the station?

>>3922865
>Yes? Domp the torps.

>>3922771
Sell NM1, 2, and 3.
Keep NM4 an 5.

Keep the Fuel Refinery.

Sell all but one Scarecrow.

Keep 2 Shoal, sell 3, gift 3.

Keep the Qlippoth.

Gift the Corvettes.

>>3922921
While initial reaction might be a resounding "NO" they have already agreed to a technology sharing treaty with a few other Neeran breakaway states to develop a next generation frigate. With this in mind their current ship is probably on the verge of obsolescence.
I think they would seriously consider it.

>>3922865

That project wont bare fruit for several years. And if the Alliance relies on the value if SP Torp value that much. Then the Dominion is screwed when it approaches them for assistance in that project. Unless the Dominion is going to go in alone on this project.

>>3922905
>Stations

Keep the battleship and one other mobile station. Sell the rest. Sell the Fuel Refinery. Keep the fast mediums. Keep three shoals sell/ trade other six. Qlipoth, sell to the House the battleships and corvettes sell/ trade.

>>3922941
It might be worth a try. I'm not sure if there are better frigate designs compatible with a Neeran shipyard available to us at the moment.

>>3922771
>>3922905
>Stations:
Sell +NM1+ to the northern rebels.
Sell +NM5+ to the western rebels.
Loan the refinery to them.
Not sure about the BB yard. Are there any interesting designs available or just the standard Neeran/Ulgean BB?

>Ships
>Fast
One scarecrow to the Rekesh, keep the rest.
>Shoal
3 for the J-D home territories, 2 each for the non-Rekesh states.

>Smaller ships
Gift every state one unit of corvettes and sell one to each.
Sell the battleships to the highest bidder.

>Qlippoth
Have logistics figure out what's better: keeping it here or sending it home for a refit.

>>3922966
>Not sure about the BB yard. Are there any interesting designs available or just the standard Neeran/Ulgean BB?
Just the Neeran ones or perhaps the Alliance Sector Patrol Craft.

>Qlippoth
Have logistics figure out what's better: keeping it here or sending it home for a refit.
Are you going to capture and make use of larger numbers of Neeran ships again? That's the determining factor.

Working out the average, 3 of the stations are getting sold including the one with the Frigate yard. The battleship equipped station plus one other will remain with your fleet. Refinery was a bit of a toss-up so it's getting leased but not entirely sold.

3 Shoal, 3 fast mediums and the Qlippoth are being kept but may be sent back to House space. Once they're had a thorough refit it can be determined if they'll be sold.

Most of the rest is being sold with the exception being one Shoal and a few corvette wings that will be gifted to the various powers.

Do you want the various mediums and the Heavy kept in reserve operated by skeleton crews or send them home now? Note: The Shoals should probably stick with the heavy to act as an escort. It's a valuable ship and hostiles either Neeran or pirate would like to get their hands on it.

>1) Fast Mediums
1A) Reserve
1B) Send home

>2) Shoals
2A) Reserve
2B) Send home

>3) Qlippoth
3A) Reserve
3B) Send home

>>3923079

>Fast Mediums
Reserve

>Shoals
Home

>Qlipoth
Home

>>3923079
>1A) Reserve

>2A) Reserve

>3B) Send home

>>3923079
>1) Fast Mediums
1A) Reserve

>2) Shoals
2B) Send home

>3) Qlippoth
3A) Reserve

>>3923079

>1) Fast Mediums
1A) Reserve

>2) Shoals
2A) Reserve

>3) Qlippoth
3A) Reserve

>>3923147
>>3923079
Actually fuck it, send them all home. Let's bulk up the military force of our faction in house JD and remind the traitors and terran democracy fetishists what keeps our House a Home.

Overwhelming firepower.

>>3923079
Send them all back

The Shoals and Qlippoth are headed for home while the Fast Mediums are readied for reserve use just in case.

It feels like a long wait for the next wave of the offensive to begin. You expect large scale coms blackouts like with the first one and are not disappointed. This time it isn't all at once but a steady increase that takes place over a few days. It may have started already or they could be waiting for all you know.

Alliance ships passing through on the way to the jump off point are becoming a steady stream rather than the slackening tide. The FOB's you have operational producing assault corvette components never stop. Whenever your stockpiles are approaching full the Alliance offers to take some off your hands.

Squire class ships and Sector patrol craft are finally arriving here in numbers. Some of the newer vessels are even being produced at the fleet base. For the first time in this galaxy the Alliance finally has numbers on its side. It couldn't come at a better time. Civilian trade is continuing to recover and the Rekesh are eager to end the convoy system they had implemented as a precaution.

Mezan has recruited the defector units as expected, though this has prevented them from trying to hire on with the Alliance fleets in the offensive. They're working to better organize and decide if they should deploy to the front lines or not.

Maybourne brings you a report she's gotten hold of through a few contacts. It's not a proper intelligence report, more rumors and hearsay about observations, but they all indicate the same thing. The Neeran Isolationists are on the move. Not a few supers like you would expect from Baldr's faction but entire formations. Even a few the size of Apex class Command Ships. They must be committing close to their entire fleet.

>What say?

>>3923244

>They must be committing close to their entire fleet.

Did someone finally tell them they need to get involved beyond sending a few troops out or else their rent is going to come due?

Also holy shit, I hope they've taken proper precautions to harden/ strengthen their ships against Empire Neeran boarding and their jammers. Otherwise they are just throwing ships and troops to their death the minute one of those boarding parties with a jammer gets in. They'll be dead in the water.

Maybe give our Neeran a heads up we might see some Isolationist Neeran in the near future. If they really are coming this way. In case they want to talk to their own people.

>>3923244
"Here they come to save they day, after all the hard work has already been done."

>>3923265
>I hope they've taken proper precautions to harden/ strengthen their ships against Empire Neeran boarding and their jammers.
They did take steps against the earlier weapon that made use of a city ship's existing networks. That wont work anymore.

The newer version has been reported to the Alliance and the isolationists via the Caretakers. You can bet they've been working hard to pin down a counter. The threat it poses should be ample motivation.

>>3923244

Would the time frame for RSS to travel to the front allow for Mezan to be hired on to guard them in hot salvage situations?
If they decide they'd be interested.

Have to be up really early tomorrow so the next post will have to wait.

>>3923417
I suppose so? There may also be work left elsewhere through the recently captured territories. Do so?

>>3923438

Let the company assess whether that would be more profitable than their work right now. They may be able to come back to it, but the front is limited time only to get cool stuff.

London's opinion would be nice if possible.

>>3923438
>Do so?
Maybe establish a special high risk operations division for these contracts?

>>3923244
>It feels like a long wait for the next wave of the offensive to begin.
What's Versa doing? We didn't really get a chance to talk, I think.

>Civilian trade is continuing to recover and the Rekesh are eager to end the convoy system they had implemented as a precaution.
What happened to all the transports and other assorted support craft we've captured? We should be drowning in transports, freighters, tankers, mining vessels and all the other stuff that's useless in a fight but worth its weight in gold otherwise.

>What say?
Let's hope things will go well for them. I have no idea what impact the loss of that many ships would have on a society that's based entirely around interstellar vessels.

>>3923438

I'd like to get Londons input.

Just how far forward are we salvaging? PCCG Space? Shallan Space? The War Front?

Sure we will have plenty of opportunities after the war to conduct salvage operations. But other anons have the right of it that there is limited time salvage to be had on the war front.

I just don't want to miss an opportunity to spread the RSS brand name. And miss out on opportunities to other salvaging companies. Or risk someone thinking they can get away with attacking our shit and stealing it. Like Neeran Pirates the Shallan Military Government and other parties who would not pass up such an opportunity. And our forces or friendly forces being to far out to render aid effectively.

>>3923244
>>What say?

Annoyed grumbling about better late than never. Could probably have used them about two decades ago.

I wonder what game they are playing here?

>>3921413
>In theory, though having a heavy cruiser dock to assemble it all makes things go much more smoothly.
We could set up medium cruiser sized production facilities in each of the smaller states and build a heavy cruiser repair dock at the fleet base that's under Alliance control. The locals could then decide if they want to use their output to build a heavy under FA supervision, or medium cruisers on their own.
It's very likely not going to be as efficient as setting up a dedicated heavy cruiser yard but realistically, maybe aside from the Rekesh, none of the local governments do currently have the supply chain to build a heavy or support it adequately with crew and parts.

A medium cruiser shipyard in each of the smaller states would cost around 1.5 billion. Maybe less if the FA is willing to offer subsidies or 0 interest loans.

>>3924038

So build and then sell off ship yards to recently freed minor states? Or build our own ship yards in their space, leasing them to the freed minor states?

>>3923244
On second thought maybe this has to do with what Svidur said ages ago? We can't just kill all the Empire Neeran, something needs to be worked out with the isolationists.

"Here they come to save they day." you grumble.
Still it's better late than never.
"Did someone finally tell them they need to get involved beyond sending a few troops out or else their rent is going to come due?"

Maybourne shrugs. "They did send something like 90 upgraded city ships to help with the fighting a few years ago."

"Whatever, let's hope things will go well for them. Tell Sam, Dave and the Caretakers that the Neeran Isolationists are deploying their fleet. Quietly. Dont use coms that could be intercepted."
"On it."

It wont take long for the Empire to realise the Isolationists have arrived in force once fighting has started. That's going to be a thing. More than anything else the Empire has wanted to go after them and now this could potentially be their chance to do it.
"Something else is going on here."
"Sir?"
"Nothing."

Think I caught the flu that's going around at work so haven't been great the past day or so.

Over the next two weeks the communications blackout begins to break down as the Alliance requests reinforcements for various sectors they're having trouble with. By the time it is completely abandoned Alliance fleets have begun to arrive in the same region of space the Neeran capital is in. It seems multiple groups have bypassed linking relays entirely while other groups keep local Neeran defenders pinned down.

The following day an intelligence update is received.

Targets of opportunity are available for any units currently in reserve that have not yet received orders to deploy. Front line units are occupied with primary and secondary objectives at present. These tertiary targets are being left alone unless reserve force commanders wish to act on their own initiative.

1) Shallan State - Alliance brass are worried by deteriorating relations with the de facto Shallan government. They want veteran units standing by to hold open the corridor in case the worst happens and the State blocks Alliance movement. If necessary the Alliance has other options to keep supply lines open but it would strain logistics.

2) Neeran / Ulgean Intervention - Alliance intel believes Neeran forces holding off the current Ulgean offensive can be driven to counterattack. If a number of well guarded logistics sites could be destroyed the enemy could be forced to attack Ulgean forward logistics in order to capture theirs. Alliance Admiralty consider the operation unnecessary at the moment, but it could weaken the Ulgean position post-war.

3) Unidentified Gate - The Neeran have a capital ship grade gate that doesn't appear to be contributing to the war effort at present. Krath ships have confirmed it to be in operation and resources are being spent on operations there. Why isn't known which is concerning analysts. Capture the facility so the Alliance can find out what it is for, or destroy it to end whatever threat it might pose.

4) Continue to wait in reserve - Whatever the Alliance has in mind for the attack on the Neeran capital they'll probably need reinforcements before long.

1) Shallan State
2) Neeran / Ulgean Intervention
3) Unidentified Gate
4) Continue to wait in reserve

Unless there are any other suggestions by anons for operations?

>>3926584
>3) Unidentified Gate

Capturing this could help in understanding the gates in the Sphere and in the facility at Threochts Planet. Also maybe learn how to possibly repair the Builder ship. Also be nice salvaging rights. If we can yank it and bring it back home.

>>3926584
>3) Unidentified Gate
This sounds like an ideal operation given all the equipment and upgrades we've just acquired.

>>3926584
>3) Unidentified Gate

>>3926584
> Alliance brass are worried by deteriorating relations with the de facto Shallan government
Weeeelll now. This might actually work in our favor. If the Shallans withdraw from the FA, or threatens it, then the FA will want to stabilize itself. Lest others start fearing the FA will collapse. Then should a larger disagreement occure within the FA regarding two member states in regards to, oh I don't know, enforced technological stagnancy and state sponsored terrorism in foreign nations. Well I do believe the Dominion would then be in a proper position to put the axe to the hull of the ship that is the FA, or could seem like it unless the Dominion got it's way in the disagreement.

>Targets of opportunity
Well to be perfectly fair I don't really want to leave the Facility unguarded to begin with. But if we have to go somewhere then I suppose.
>3) Unidentified Gate
Once more into the breach, adventure awaits!

Oh hell, I missed an entire page of notes regarding Forbearance!
Fortunately I can still salvage parts of this.

>>3926682
Was it the 'pirate spirits that haunt the ship' section?

It seems you're going to volunteer to investigate the enemy gate facility. You begin sending requests to Threochts planet for personnel who will best be able to make sense of anything you capture.

With Forbearance having left with the J-D fleet it occurs to you that it might be good to acquire a replacement Super Heavy for your fleet if you're heading into the thick of it. Baron Xedols will be remaining here which means borrowing his Sovereign class is right out. Fortunately there are other options.

Thanks to your assistance in fighting throughout this cluster a number of Warlord Supers managed to be saved. The Warlord they belonged to, Bhumi Patil, would probably be willing to listen if you wanted to hire a group for the operation. It looks like the Warlords are trying to stay out of the heaviest fighting, focusing mostly on actions to pin down enemy forces, or heading up carrier groups. They should have ships available, some of which are finishing up repairs from actions in this cluster.

Mezan's contract is ending and her people wont be prepared in time to accompany you. The PCCG Mercenary Guild is usually ready to fill gaps left by ending contracts. She could probably help to ensure you could hire on replacements, or even get an upgraded contract. There might even be a PCCG Fast Super or upgraded Moradins available.

Ren has indicated that Trayan mercenaries are also available in small numbers. There hasn't been much time to vet them to levels the Alliance would prefer.

[ ] Hire SRL Super Heavies
[ ] Hire PCCG Merc replacements
[ ] Hire PCCG Mercs & Fast Super
[ ] Hire Trayan Mercs

And since I left it out.
[ ] Dont hire any

>>3926723
>[ ] Hire PCCG Mercs & Fast Super

>>3926723

>Bhumi Patil

Didn't we also give them some PCCG tech that they've been trying to get their hands on for a while by selling them the wreckage of one of Mezan's Mediums that we sacrificed to save a Super?

So not only do they owe us for saving their super but for helping them get tech they've been trying to get a hold of. I think Bhumi Patil would likely be more than willing to pay back this debt/ favor to us. Especially if it means there is a change to get more salvage and tech they hadn't been able to before.

So I say lets talk to them and get one of their supers to tag along.

>[ ] Hire SRL Super Heavies

>>3926736
>they owe us
Indeed. Not only will they be willing to take a contract they'd rather avoid but I'm sure you could get a discount.

>So I say lets talk to them and get one of their supers to tag along.
You talk to Warlord Patil who informs you that if she's sending any it'll be three, not one. That way it will increase the odds of their survival. They'll all be different types. One fitted with siege weapons, one with scrap cannons as well as salvage and recovery, then a third as a dedicated support ship.

Of course these vessels are much slower than what you could hire from the PCCG.

>>3926773
Do we have an idea what kind of opposition we'll be facing? Supers equipped for combat would be a huge waste of money if the Neeran have an Executioner production facility in the area, for example.

>>3926782
There are stations and some local production for smaller craft but the nearest larger shipyards are those around the capital. One Super carrier arrives at the gate daily from an unknown location and passes through it.

>>3926723
>[ ] Hire SRL Super Heavies

>>3926798
Thanks. Seems like they're evacuating.

>>3926723
>[x] Hire SRL Super Heavies
Can our SRL contacts recommend any captains in Patil's employ we should ask for?
>[x] Hire PCCG Merc replacements
>[x] Hire PCCG Mercs & Fast Super
Can we get boarding specialists from the Alliance? They probably have people more experienced with capturing important Neeran equipment in one piece than our troops.

>>3926773

I will stay with Warlord Supers.

tl;dr: PCCG Fast Super and mercs if we want to get in and destroy the place and get out once we learn what it is. Warlord Supers if we want to get in and hold the place once we learn what it is.

So a choice between getting in fast and harassing them with one Super and learning what it’s all about. And whether it should be destroyed or captured. Or getting into a slugging match to learn what the wormhole is for.

Getting in and out fast is a priority. But if we want to salvage the thing. Then having multiple supers would go a long way to taking the thing back home for perhaps the third best piece of salvage this entire deployment. If we can get it back.

While I am betting most of the galaxies defenses have been pulled away to halt the FA’s advance or protect their core. I’m sure there is going to still be a present defense fleet there. And if whatever Neeran commander there is worth his salt. The moment he sees any enemy super in his galaxy he’s going to mobilize the required amount of overwhelming force to destroy them and whatever presence they have in his galaxy. Making salvaging the gate a dangerous proposal no matter how many supers we take with us. It may be better to destroy it. Instead of salvaging said gate since we cant hold the system.

But if we do decide to be try and hold said system. Than more firepower we have would be better than none. Just have to strap some extra afterburners and maneuvering thrusters on the SRL Supers. So they have a slight bit more dodging ability.

>>3926723
>[ ] Hire SRL Super Heavies

>>3926809
We can pick more than one option. At least that's how I understand it.

>>3926798
>>3926860
>Hire both

Can we hire both PCCG and Warlords?

>>3926870
You can hire lesser bands of mercs from whoever but only supers from 1 source. Otherwise you're taking resources away from others who might need them.

>>3926723

Updating vote

>[ ] Hire SRL Super Heavies
>[ ] Hire PCCG Merc replacements

>>3926881
In that case, updating to

>>3926808
>[x] Hire PCCG Merc replacements
>[x] Hire PCCG Mercs & Fast Super

>>3926723
> [ ] Hire SRL Super Heavies
> [ ] Hire PCCG Merc replacements

>Dranot the Unsung
Can we have an artist from each of the liberated worlds write and perform a song thanking him for not burning down their planets and stuff?
Would that make a nice gift for somebody who goes by "the unsung" or would it be seen as an insult?

File: Rioja Fleet ships 4044_04.gif (46 KB, 1612x1176)

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I guess that's settled. You hire on the SRL Super Heavies who begin to prepare for the upcoming deployment. They'll be ready soon enough. The 3 Supers have a substantial escort, though its hard to tell what parts of their fleet are intended more for offensive or defensive engagement. 15 medium cruisers plus 2 more for support, 4 squadrons of battleships and battlecruisers, 3 mixed wings, and 2 of assault corvettes.

The mercs are glad to hear that you have a heavy carrier outfitted for repairs of older corvettes. They have a number of Dagger class and standard corvettes that are crippled but could be brought back to operational status with work by your engineers.
"How many?"
"Close to a wing's worth. If you could refit the standard corvettes into attack corvettes that would really help."
You have to resist groaning in annoyance. How could anyone still be using standard corvettes?

Mezan contacts the PCCG guild to see about getting replacements. They dont really have anything that could match the utility of the Cordate ECM ships, or the toughness of an Eclipse but they still give it a try. 2 Sledge, 4 Lance and a Monitor with ECM systems take the place of the 6 mediums you're losing. CCD Battleships and attack cruisers are more or less even in numbers and firepower. Fortunately replacing the mixed wings of Neeran craft are 2 wings of Dominion Assault corvettes. Ones built by the J-D shipyards no less! Not the most recent models but more than adequate.

Both the PCCG and SRL mercs have additional prize crews if you wanted to bring the 3 fast mediums in your reserve up to operational status.

Knight Zinovev of the Dominion Knights wishes you luck on the mission. Their unit is going to remain behind working with the Ruling House to ensure the Dominion maintains a presence in the area. They've been busy helping to construct a number of covert bases. The Alliance has already acquired one of them for use as a forward border outpost.
With any luck they'll eventually get permission to establish a local chaper of the Dominion Knights. For now the Ruling House is considering it. They'll need to make a decision first on how it will impact relations in the region.

The Krath Mercenaries are also out and have no intention or extending their contract. Some of it was entertaining but they'd rather be away from any place their kin are paying attention to.

>>3927314
What's that SRL cruiser next to the right of their scarecrow?

>>3927341
Trident class

>>3927347
Thanks.

According to reports leaked to the civilian media the Neeran Empire's SP weapon program has been destroyed. The chances of them being able to mass produce or deploy SP weapons throughout the Empire in time to affect the outcome of the war is now all but lost.

How this information made it into civilian hands let alone to broadcast is anyone's guess. It could be someone hoping to push for Dominion access to those weapons but that's still up for debate. The Emperor is remaining silent on the issue for now.

Looking up recent intel reports the media account does seem to match up with available information. The Alliance also believes much more costly Veckron weapons may still be in development but in far more limited numbers. As the Emperor hasn't made any attempt to contact you regarding the success or failure of the other mission you're reluctant to even consider contacting them about all of this.

Any last minute preparations?
You'll be contacting the Alliance about boarding specialists.

>>3927419

>Any last minute preparations?

Are we taking any of our Neeran buddies with us? In case we need them to translate Neeran stuff or operate Neeran equipment we find that we cant operate ourselves?

>>3927419
Would it make sense to replace the SRL baseline corvettes with FTL ball corvettes?
Make the gun upgrade we purchased for the Nautilus class available to the ships on this mission?
Make sure that people who die back home while Sonia is gone get immediately placed in stasis instead of the normal proceedings.

>>3927434
>Are we taking any of our Neeran buddies with us?
I think they were sort of expecting to stay and keep an eye on the builder ship and planet interior. You do have specialists that will be coming along who know how to operate wormhole systems now.

>or operate Neeran equipment we find that we cant operate ourselves?
Jan should be able to handle most things short of the difficult to master shield generators.

>>3927439
>Would it make sense to replace the SRL baseline corvettes with FTL ball corvettes?
It might, but you sent the Qlippoth back to J-D space and thus it would be harder to maintain larger numbers of them. Also you sold off the majority of those you've salvaged. The remainder are being held in reserve as replacement turrets.

>Make the gun upgrade we purchased for the Nautilus class available to the ships on this mission?
Forgot you bought that. I was going to say that there wouldn't be time to perform a refit like that now but Lyas has one of those vessels as a command ship. Odds are in the past couple months there's been time to upgrade one of them. The engineers are still inexperienced with them so the focus has been on working the bugs out before trying another.

The SRL mercs are more or less in the same boat. They captured one with the guns more or less intact but they're a bit finicky.

>Make sure that people who die back home while Sonia is gone get immediately placed in stasis instead of the normal proceedings.
I presume you mean family members, close friends and important government officials?

>>3927419
Get the codes to dial the builder ship? Just in case we need to emergency evacuate and the only route is the Neeran gate.

>>3927589
>Get the codes to dial the builder ship? Just in case we need to emergency evacuate and the only route is the Neeran gate.
This is actually a good idea. The Alliance will be asked to send someone that could let you dial another friendly gate as well just in case.

File: MAP_U_4044_TargetGATE_01B.gif (18 KB, 846x697)

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I've removed a lot of superfluous navigation lanes from the map for easier viewing.

There are 2 main paths to approach the region the gate is but both of them get uncomfortably close to the Neeran capital. As in the only known FTL lane connecting to the relay is via the capital. Fortunately you have a gravity well generator and can make you own path if necessary. This may actually be preferable.

Route A) This follows the Alliance main line of advance. There will be plenty of friendlies but an unknown number of enemies as some locations are still contested. Most worryingly this approach will drop you on the wrong side of the capital, forcing you to either make a follow up jump out and around, or try and cut across one of the most heavily defended locations in the known universe.

Route A2) Split off from the main FTL route and use the gravity well generator to made stops in deep space. It worked for you in the Crystal Sea and that's supposed to be one of the more dangerous places to cross.

Route B) This one will take you through regions actively contested by the Empire and Ulgean Hegemony. Plenty of opportunities for salvage but also for risk of interception.
Fortunately the navigation connection to the capital is in a much better location. If you're lucky friendly forces may also be relatively nearby when you arrive there, but there is a risk enemy reinforcements could also use this route. This approach should give you more of a straight shot for the objective.

Route B2) The location of the galaxy cluster in the B route is an excellent jumping off point if you want to use the gravity well generator to reach the objective. Intel is confident that navigation should be easy. The only difficult part will be crossing the contested cluster.

>>3927752
>[x] Route A2

>>3927752

I am torn between A2 and B2.

A2 sounds like the safer option. But as pointed out, brings us closer to the Capital.

B2 makes sure we are further from the capital. But at the same time we have to deal with the Neeran and Ulgeans. And neither side loves us. And would love to either kill/ capture the SRL Supers.

And the Gate is much closer than I expected it to be. So that's going to be a thing. Do we have an ETA for when we could expect the FA to reach the Gate? Or would we be on our own until they deal with the Neeran capital?

Well either way we're going to be dealing with Neeran. So lets go the route with less of the bastards or at least where they are distracted. So...

>A2

>>3927801
>And the Gate is much closer than I expected it to be.
It's a bit farther than it appears because 3D, but yes it's only a 3 day flight from the capital at standard long jump cruising speeds.

>Do we have an ETA for when we could expect the FA to reach the Gate? Or would we be on our own until they deal with the Neeran capital?
It depends on the number and speed of enemy reinforcements trying to reach the capital. If things go well it may be possible to call in support. Otherwise there's a not insignificant chance of your forces being cut off.