Futuristic PROSPER, AS TAU SHALL! (40k Expansionist RP!)

[Beckoncall]

Crocodile :

Actions
Manta - Move to 0705

Probe - 0703 Caution: Remote probes cannot be sent from this system, as they are invariably destroyed in the intense Gravity well of the Rosette (The fate of the rogue trader ship as well) Tau craft "Ether Drive" is not subject to same difficulties with Rosette Gravity well as other subspace propulsion, but any ship smaller than a manta cannot leave the system.

Action 1: Will attempt to engage with Lalas population via 1st Bastillian Rangers to offer aid and scout the planet better.

Action 2: Manta will scan the area of potential hidden threats, dispatch drones to sweep the system. -- Drones sucked into gravity well and impact with the sun. Scans from Manta However, Yield the following:

Lalas is a QUARANTINED WORLD:

Quarantined World​

The world is under a quarantine, and space travel to and from it is strictly forbidden. This may be enforced by massive ground batteries that burn any interlopers from the planet's sky, or it may be that others run a persistent blockade.

Enemies:

• Defense installation commander (Robot "Vampire Fleet" of Fra'al origin -- the Fra'al crewing the naval blockade are long dead. Robots and AI remain vigilant maintaining the Quarantine)
• Crazed asteroid hermit (Unbelievably ancient Fra'al) literally demanding Manta "Get off his lawn" (?)

Friends:

• Relative of a person trapped on the world (There is a recently arrived Fra'al sleeper ship that has come to retrieve the dead colonists on Lalas. They aren't having any luck touching down either.
• Treasure hunter -- Nekulli Raider band on surprisingly sophisticated Fra'al vessel -- they want access to Lalas to harvest it for biomass in the terraformed areas.

Complications:

• The natives want to remain isolated (They are dead, as are the orbital blockade crews)
• The quarantine is enforced by an ancient alien installation (Fra'al "Vampire Fleet")
• The blockade is meant to starve everyone on the barren world (This endeavor has succeeded, but it is not apparent why the Fra'al would blockade their own world to starvation, then remain in orbit to maintain the blockade even after their natural lifespans)

Things:

• Defense grid key (Presumed lost of Iolos?)
• Bribe for getting someone out (Fra'al will cooperate/pay for extraction of bodies from dead colony and vampire fleet!)
• Abandoned alien tech (Fra'al technology of all types, most particularly the vampire fleet itself)

Places:

• Bridge of a blockading ship
• Defense installation control room
• Refugee camp

FURTHER SCANNING REQUIRED: Iolos Silicoids are Lithovores to survive, but eat organic sentients as a traditional delicacy. Exercise extreme caution!


Water Action: Initiate contact with Rogue Traders, offering aid in return for discussion on joining the taskforce.

(To be resolved in Scene via Discord)

 

[CamSkittle]

Taskforce Victory: Turn 3​

Spoiler: Taskforce Detail

Shas'El Commander
1 Manta Starship/Dropship (Base of Operations)
2 Crisis Suits
Water Caste Taskforce (50)
Gue'Vesa Auxiliary Force (100)
Kroot Auxiliary Force (100)
Kroot Auxiliary Force (100)
Vespid Auxiliary Force (100)
Drones/Probes

Victory, Victory for the Greater Good, Victory At All Cost
El'Kir'La only knows Victory

El'Kir'La looks at her two Auxilary commanders, both having become impatient after a long wait for orders.

"New assignment." Kir'La pulls out the data reader, turning it around so Jin and Draktab could read it. "This sector, 0703, has a planet with a sizable feral population, and I think are good candidates to learn about the Tau'va."

"If I may ask, Warden, why did it take-" Jin is interupted by Kir'La.

"No, you may not. I understand that others have already started their missions, but we are the best of them all, and you already knew that, Zhanshi." The Warden moves her cold stare towards Jta. "Are your soldiers ready? As I said, they're feral, so you never know what can happen."

"Ready, fired up, hungry, Warden. As always" the Kroot commander lifts their chin up.

"Perfect. I already ordered for a probe to launch in and I'm ordering you, Jin, to work with the Water Taskforce to set up a nice and secure outpost, a base that'll be our diplomatic center for our mission and beyond for when we get them to join the cause. Notice I say "when", because, as you know-"

"We Only Know Victory" the Auxilary leaders say in unison.

"I'm also ordering the construction of environment suits for this planet, so no excuses. This planet should be be enlightened by the Tau'va by the end of this mission, done nice, quick, with minimal hiccups, understood?"

"Yes Warden" the Auxilary leaders say in unison .

"Glad we're on the same page. Now move." The Warden coldly orders, both the officers leaving swiftly. She leans back into her chair, raising her head up.

"My first step in this sector......the beginning of the march of Victory."

Orders:
1. Launch probe in Hex 0703
2. Construct Specialized Environment Suits for Auxilary
3. Gue'Vesa Auxilary will build an outpost in 0703
Bonus: Water Caste are going to make the outpost specialized for diplomacy and trade, and will link any trade network found.

 

[Kloudy]

Taskforce Nebulus
1x Shas'El Commander (Marx)
1x Manta Starship/Dropship (MANTA-042)
- 1x Mk. II Mining Laser "The Hadron" (Innovative/Promising/Range 1)
2x XV8 Crisis Suits
1x Earth Caste Taskforce (50)
1x Thraxian Auxiliary Force (100)
1x Gue'Vesa Auxiliary Force (100)
1x Vespid Auxiliary Force (100)
1x Simulacra Auxiliary Force (100) (Beta)

Savris Delta
Subsector 0706
-Turn III-​

---

Orders
​

• The Hadron
• The Cruel Shoal

• 
  
  The Hadron​
  
  An exponentially increasing frown was growing on the commander's face. The report laid before him detailed the new weapon MANTA-042 was developing.
  
  "The scope of the project we are undertaking has led to... unforeseen complications," Overseer Vah'Kol tried to explain in sour tones, "The irradiated emissions are proving lethal to our crew, so I have drawn up protective measures for your discretion."
  
  Commander Marx looked over the solutions the Overseer had planned. They seemed effective, but that did not excuse Vah'Kol's blunder. He was on the MANTA-042 to exercise his tremendous talent for technological engineering and serve the Tau'Va. His superiors, Marx included, expected the best from one of his stature and experience. Not only that, but Vah'Kol himself was somewhat of a perfectionist - yet another reason Marx had sought him out for his crew. He knew the Overseer would be feeling bitter about his shortcoming and would work around the clock to correct it. This left the commander relatively secure in his faith in Vah'Kol, whom he was certain would not disappoint him again.
  
  "I will review these documents. For now, I believe you should reflect on your methods and improve, Overseer." Vah'Kol simply bowed and muttered to himself.
  
  Sergeant Killian was also present on the bridge, smirking slightly at the discourse between the two Tau. Technology was the one point where both Marx and Vah'Kol best engaged, and so they had ironically built quite a serious agenda when it came to its development. Killian was sure that if the issue had been literally anything else of similar severity, his commander's behaviour would be more lax.
  
  Noticing the smirk, Marx turned his attention to the Gue'Vesa Sergeant with a scowl, "Your humour escapes me, Sergeant. Perhaps you have a solution for the issue we face?"
  
  The sergeant simply shrugged and gestured to Vah'Kol, "I've actually already gone over the Overseer's applications and I think the construction of logistical robotics for the ship would be the best option."
  
  The scowl changed into just one of the brows remaining lowered, as close to a 'raised eyebrow' as the Shas'el could get.
  
  "It would deal with the radiation expulsion. Vah'Kol can have his men organise the repurposed drones to do the engineering remotely," Killian continued, "Plus it means that my team no longer has to help, leaving us open to engage in alternative objectives."
  
  Marx nodded now, a hand on his chin in thought, "Yes, that sounds agreeable. This modification can also serve to expedite other construction projects aboard the ship. Hmm..."
  
  The commander turned back to his holodeck and sifted through information for a few seconds before returning to the two officers.
  
  "Good. Vah'Kol, I am sure you know your mission now. Dismissed."
  
  Vah'Kol bowed again and left, a feverishly determined expression on his face. He would fix this Eldari-damned laser if it was the last thing to expel radiation on him.
  
  
• 
  
  The Cruel Shoal​
  
  Killian remained, waiting for Marx to continue speaking.
  
  "Sergeant. I am expecting company from your kin soon, so I will be having you remain present during the discussion." Probe scans and transcripts flew up on the holodecks detailing the events in 0704.
  
  Killian nodded, curiosity sparking as he noticed the marines imaging, "Oh, wow. The Imperium is all the way out here? Those pirates must have hauled their iced chassis' several sectors at least."
  
  "Possibly, but it seems they have now been freed by another commander and are enroute to this location. I have reason to assume there is gene-seed technology on this derelict of which they desire."
  
  Killian whistled low, "That'll be a pricey bump. Are you sure you'll be able to negotiate with them? Imperials love hoarding their tech."
  
  "We will see," Marx conceded, "If they have turned to diplomacy with the Tau once, they may again."
  
  "Well, this all hangs on the proverbial thread of the Tyrannid presence. We haven't fought a Zoanthrope before, right?"
  
  "No, but there are many records regarding it's abilities and weaknesses. A precise strike while it sleeps will ensure the hive's extermination."
  
  "Perhaps," Killian leaned over the holodeck he was stood before and fiddled with its control panel until the Zoanthrope data came to light, "Or we could let Adeptus Astartes solve this problem through the power of..."
  
  The sergeant smirked at Marx with his usual Gue'vesa charisma.
  
  "Yes, thank you Sergeant." The commander could not help but sigh at the dramatics, normalised to the coy nature of humans by now. In some respects Killian likened himself to Sergeant Liola in more ways than just rank. Marx was not above fraternising with his crew if not for the sake of efficiency through familiarity, but his mission always came first. The endless chase for hedonism or romance was one that a Shas'el had no need; for Marx already chased purpose and valiance.
  
  "It's less work for us and definitely less dangerous for our crew." Killian chimed in again, turning over the options for consideration.
  
  Marx raised a finger at the human, "You are forgetting something. Our other proverbial thread lies in the Astartes' mission. Defeating the infestation will bare less fruit if we are then to face the forces that destroyed them."
  
  Killian shrugged once more, "That's fair. Well as you say, we will see."
  
  Marx nodded in agreement, "Yes. In preparation have the ship brace for deep-strike boarding. And prepare the XV8s, I want one here and one circulating the ship."
  
  "Damn, are you expecting a hostile response?" A pointed question.
  
  The commander almost chuckled, swivelling in his chair to face Killian properly.
  
  "One can never be too prepared when facing Mankind, my friend."
  
  

Order Summary:
Continue work on The Hadron. Earth Caste have been recommended to construct logistics androids to conduct work remotely.
(1x Earth Caste Bonus Action)
Prepare MANTA-042 for incoming boarding. Combat-ready crew are to mobilised with equipment for defence against deep-strike tactics. An XV8 Crisis Suit is stationed on the bridge and another will patrol the ship.
(1x Action)
Contact the Imperial vessel approaching 0706.
(1x Action)
Probe Astartes cargo ship and scan for dangerous technology. Emphasis on dreadnought.
(2x Scan)

Mentions:
Beckoncall

 

[Beckoncall]

Twist :

Scanning of 0702 -- A seemingly empty hex unveiles a secret holdfast DEEP SPACE STATION Designation "Ptahshepses 4"
Occupation
Deranged but brilliant scientist
Situation
Vault for dangerous pretech

In the cold blackness of Delta Sector, Ptahshepses 4 whirled like a black-mirrored disco-ball -- attracting it's own ring of asteroids and stellar debris -- it's own Sun in a sunless system. The Station was mostly unlit, but all of it was perpetually functioning. A Machine spirit, the Titular Ptahshepses, ran the station with concealed and ruthless efficiency.
Giant Hydroponic Farms overgrew whole decks, while other decks were flooded with ice from accumulated captured water and other valuable materials for life and industry.

Ptahshepses seemed to be master of itself, a silent brothel of questionable wonders -- most prominently a dark recess for a handful of human and alien mercenary companies, with forboding iconography and banners, and names like:

Rapid Chains
Great Blade
Union of Shrouds
Sisterhood of Champions
Eternal Wardens
Forsaken Masks
Grendl Exiles

An unsteady peace based on turf, like in a prison, seemed to keep the peace on the station between the mercenaries like a prison. A prison where everything seemed to have a price.

If Ptahshepses was a brothel, then a strange little man named "Virindi Keshurgen" was it's Madam. Constantly offering anything one might desire, or promising to arrange it, from the basest pleasures to the most practical and direct military solutions. It was said that there was only one thing with Virindi that was not for sale -- His private collection of "Daemonically embraced vehicles and artifacts." -- Supposedly free for anyone to visit, though none seemed to accept his invitation. He made it clear that anything of daemoniac nature was found by visitiors, Virindi Keshurgen would pay top dollar.

"My pets thought they were trapped in the Warp, but they are far more imprisoned here, for my pleasure." Keshurgen laughed -- and a thump in the very bones of the station, like the hearts of all the demons rejecting him at once, seemed to answer him, widening his smile.

"Oh, The Tau are here. Well... There goes the Neighborhood." Virindi said to the probes initial hails.

"Feel free to visit, conduct business, or ignore us as you will, Manta of... Commander Alesh" Virindi invited.
"We buy anything possessed, and provide free exorcism/excization of anything Warp Tainted you may hold or own. We Sell... well, Everything. Please do have the Tau open an Account with us... we provide critical materials and solutions on critical timetables."

Virindi smelled worse than most any Gue'Vesa could manage to be, covered in seemingly perpetually wet leathers and exuding a grainy oil from all the pores in his skin.

(Potential scene to conduct business possible)

Action: CQC training will be performed on ship by Fire Caste, Guevasa, Vespid and Galg (Bonus Military Deployment used if applicable/necessary)

The exercises were one-sided and a tremendous surprise. While the auxillaries benefitted from a good bruising and shake-out that left them Primed. (Auxillaries gain "Primed" Descriptor) One unlikely outcome emerged over and over again -- the fire warriors practiced their martial skills, and in a most uncharacteristic fashion, absolutely THRASHED their would-be competition in hand to hand OVER and OVER. These fire warriors seemed to have a unique talent for fighting wholeheartedly against numerous foes without care for their own safety, as such security was provided organically and boldly by every one of their peers. Tau Fire Warriors gain Descriptor "Martial Artists +3"
Injuries among the auxillaries were varied and numerous, almost to the point of disruption in the case of the Gue'Vesa. But in the end of the exercises all were more ready... and the idea of a long range Tau Fire Hunter unit that did not fear melee confrontations made news... It would have to be seen if such luck would hold, that such reputations would stick.

Action: Crisis suit pilots will train themselves in the Retaliation Cadre Formation, practising deployment and tactics on nearby asteroids, if applicable.

Crisis suits gain Descriptor "Relentless" -- breaking target after target, smashing clear dropzone to dropzone, staging area to staging area, the Crisis suit pilots hardened themselves for this specific doctrine. (Crises suits gain double attacks as long as they are not directly contested)

 

[Beckoncall]

CamSkittle :

The probes circled around The Manta of El'Kir'La bringing back slates and slates of information. Most seemingly innocuous, but plenty of interest and concern...

Subsector 0703: Designation "Podarat" Subsystem Montoro (Feral World) ... information forthcoming...

POINT OF INTEREST: (DISTRESS CALL!) Space Station Deseado 7:

"Tau spaceships! This is Penal Monastery Deseado 7 -- I am long dead, but this is an automatic message prepared in the discovery of your advance into the Delta Sector -- We are not cultists! We are prisoners! Chaos Warriors -- The Lord Garshasp and his Sorceror Hittasp are using the death on the world Montoro Below as an altar for their horrid god Khorne... harvesting the death and terror from the world like a skimmer on a pot... and enslaving the staff of this station to do their bidding and serve as sacrafice. Every day more of our staff turn or fall to the cults, but I want you to know there *IS* a resistance! Save us!"

END OF LINE

SUBSYSTEM DATA: MONTORO planetary system:

Atmosphere
Airless or thin atmosphere
Temperature
Cold
Biosphere
Immiscible -- No discernable ecology besides small remote patches of Biomorphic Fungi living in the southern icecaps and Slumbering Volcano Belts. Populations subsist in horrible underhives, with the hive cities above completely erradicated in war or catastrophe long ago. Popular organization is through cults, cabals, and gangs, 40% of which operate in a dominant hierarchy.
Population
Several million inhabitants -- Population estimates may actually be low, due to unknown fluctuations fueled by cannibalism (negative) and reconstitution (Mal-tech revived corpses causing population spikes) -- Population subsists on recycled proteins and cannibalism.
Tech Level
TL4 -- Proceed with caution... technology inferior to the Tau but is still centralized on achievements in armor and weapons technology. All life is within vac-sealed underhives. The surface is not welcoming or seemingly viable.

Enemies:

• Decadent noble (Flylord Nargaal, "The respite of disease") -- mocks Tau approach, obvious chaos lunatic.
• Mad cultist (Yrthas Lacrois) -- A powerful gang and cult recently seen building Tau effigies and holding ceremonial devourings. Not welcoming.
• Xenophobic local -- Cannoness Liun Hua -- Isolated Battle Sister Monastery leader, and once-warden of this madhouse. Does not want our help.
• Cannibal chief -- "Malefactor Queeg" -- Strange emanations from this organization and widespread mutation. Do not approach advised. They are a boil on this world to be Lanced...
• Maltech researcher -- "Mindmaster Thoris" -- some kind of aggregation of unfortunate souls absorbed by this abomination... amassing physical and technical material on cybernetic Maltech. Research Value if he can be captured or his corpse studied.

Friends:

• Trapped outworlders -- The Sisters under Cannoness Liun Hua do not share her views on their continuing role of Warden, seeing the prisoners as running the prison planet now. They may be leveragable.
• Aspiring reformer -- "Galgaleech Klaxon" -- Great Maltech-infused warrior who wants "Civilization or Oblivion" -- we might be able to use them.
• Natives wanting to avoid traditional flensing -- At least 1 million inhabitants are classified as food or chattle in centralized habitats. Possible assets.

Complications:

• Horrific local "celebration" -- We have arrived at the time of "The great sport" ... whatever this means.
• Inexplicable and repugnant social rules -- Social mores and customs here are truly reprehensible. Teaching the Tau'va here may not be possible.
• Taboo zones and people -- 70% of the planet is barren and taboo for locals to travel. these lands are full of Maltech Cyborgs that feed on unfortunates in the underhives and other Maltech Cyborgs, growing ever larger. Caution. Some "Cyber-metastisizations" are as mighty as a crisis suit. Caution. Caution.

Things:

• Terribly misused piece of pretech -- "Strange Nexus of Chaos called 'Gilder of the flesh' connects numerous underhives. No idea what purpose it once served. It now serves evil and exists to perpetuate suffering.
• Wealth accumulated through brutal evildoing -- Wealth on the planet is actually substantial, hoarded from before he destruction of the hives. 3-4 centralized vaults are bursting with precious metals, Hybrid Solids, and other useful materials/wealth.

Places:

• Atrocity amphitheater --- Site of "The Great Sport", a giant arena above the gilder of the flesh...
• Traditional torture parlor -- Dark Eldar Cabal functioning unimpeded here, in unsteady alliance with chaos forces above the planet. Caution.
• Ordinary location twisted into something terrible -- The sole remaining surface structure is a sprawling city-sized hospital complex called "The Charnel Temple". The nightmares occuring here hourly are almost beyond comprehension. Recommend Destruction from Orbit.

ORDERS:

2. Construct Specialized Environment Suits for Auxilary

All auxillaries gain "Environmental Combat Rigging" and "Environment: Airless/0g" as descriptors. These bonus gives powerful bonuses for this subsector specifically and low-level bonuses in bleak environments everywhere. Bonuses to fighting in Vaccuum and zero/low gravity.

3. Gue'Vesa Auxilary will build an outpost in 0703

Against general protocols Gue'Vesa have established Outpost in a particularly empty barrens in a central volcanic chain, rather than a far safer orbital platform. Reason for disregard of doctrine: Ambition. "Only Victory" cited as explanation.

Bonus: Water Caste are going to make the outpost specialized for diplomacy and trade, and will link any trade network found.

Trade Established with Slave Supercomplex seeking offworld trade and With the Battle Sister Sanctuary. Unsteady peace with battle sisters established through diplomacy, but situation is very delicate. "The Crimson Corporation" that runs the slave-mill offers slaves and Maltech for any type of food we might have to offer -- Food is a very valuable commodity on Montoro.


(Potential for scenes with multiple personalities in this subsector)

 

[Cosmo]

​

Turn 4

≡≡≡≡≡ ≡≡≡≡≡ ≡≡≡≡≡

The darkness stretched all around them, it went far beyond the sight even as the crisp sound of death spinners buzzed in the background spinning out strand after strand of monofilament fiber. So small and fine they were normally invisible to the eye, but the silvery strands were interweaving, creating an orb tapestry that seemed to provide the only light in the abyss, a lonely moon of silvery thread that continued to grow and grow. The silvery moon was trying to engulf a grey creature, a blob of grey matter that continued to grow within it, that stretched and morphed as streams of iridescent blue lights smashed into it along with the occasional blinding flash of orange as burst cannons and fusion blasters discharged into the mass trying to hold back the tide by throwing small pebbles at it and accomplishing nothing. It was not a battle that could be won, only endured. Only survived. The gray monstrosity heaved and moved, drawn by instinct or 'pain', if such a creature was capable of the sensation, lashing out at the trio of Crisis Suits that jumped and danced around it, pouring more and more destructive light at the creature as the webs were spun.

Lights flash and blared up at Neemva on her HUD as she slammed down on her thruster jets to narrowly dodge the tendril of ooze that manifested from what once had been the creature's 'head'. How much longer? How long had it been? The internal systems of her suit told her of the growing size of the Eldar construct, but she could not spare the attention to look, to examine, to figure out the time. She did not even have time to encourage or command her fellow pilots as if she lost attention even for a moment, the creature would have her and it would be over. A chemical concoction pumped through the interior systems and into her veins, sharpening her senses and keeping her alert even as the fight dragged on. It was so close, she could feel it. She could taste it even through the recycled air of her suit.

Then it lurched. The mass moved just enough to the side to catch a suit as it came down. A snake-like tendril shot out to coil up the suits arm, cracking and infiltrating it as the goo seemed to almost bleed into it, chipping and tearing away as it consumed. Screams filled her comms as Raaslee's voice broke through, the pain receptors in her suit alerting her to the damage just as the image of her crisis suit appeared on her command HUD, alerts sprayed across as the critical damage began to spread up its arm and across its torso like a virus.

"I Volunteer to Fall, Shas'El! Flee from here!" Raaslee's voice broke over the comms, determination in her voice, it would be her death but she could hold.

All Neemva had to do was let go. Let go and let the Greater Good take its path.. But she couldn't. She couldn't fail again. With a crash, Neemva dropped her suit next to her and gripped on the undamaged arm and pulled, trying to fight against the grey goo to reclaim Raaslee, save her friend. They had fought together, bled together, she and Hann'o were all she had from her past, all she had before her shame. She could not lose her here, she would not lose her here.

But no matter how hard she pulled, no matter how hard she pushed the servos, she could not dislodge Raaslee even as the tendril grew and extended, even as it pulled her into its depths, even as it engulfed her and the screams grew, as the crisis suit was torn in half, as it curled around the head.. And even as Neemva ran, ran to the Webway portal, ran until Raaslee was out of sight, the gut wrenching screams continued.

Even as she passed through the crackling energy of the webway, she could hear it. The pain shrieks, the pleas for help.. Neemva had left her. Again. The swirling colors of the webway rushed past her until she found herself in a long, dark hallway lit by a single row of crystals that beckoned her forward, but something called to her in the dark alcove, something alluring, irresistible. She paused to gaze into the abyss when the great gray tendril reached out to grip her arm, to crush and shatter, to draw her into their depths and just like her friend she abandoned, Neemva screamed.

Neemva shot bolt right in her bed, sending the thin green blanket flying from her sweat covered torso as her long black hair was matted against her face. She drew in deep, shaky breaths as her eyes jumped around the room, looking for it. Looking for the thing that took her friend, certain it had her.. as her breathing slowed and her mind calmed, she took stock of her surroundings, of the reality she found herself in, and curled her knees to her chest and tried to forget the daemons of the past.

≡≡≡≡≡ ≡≡≡≡≡ ≡≡≡≡≡ ≡≡≡≡≡ ≡≡≡≡≡

Spoiler: Taskforce Shi'Vre

Shas'El Vior'La Nem'Sha [Fire Commander from the Vior'la Sept, title: The Defiant]
- Stryxis short list, Blinded Eye of Chaos
1 Manta Starship/Dropship (Base of Operations)
1 Crisis Suit
Fire Caste Taskforce (50)
- "Tandem -- Gue'Vesa"
Enoulian Auxiliary Force (100)
Kroot Auxiliary Force (100)
- Excited, Spoil-Hungry, Endurium Melee Gear, "Roly Poly" (Bonus to charge and retreat), Subdermal plating, Disrupted [1-2 Turns (On Turn 2)]
Kroot Auxiliary Force (100)
- Excited, Spoil-Hungry, Endurium Melee Gear, "Roly Poly" (Bonus to charge and retreat), Subdermal plating, Disrupted [1-2 Turns (On Turn 2)]
Drones/Probes

Current Location
0700

System Survey
Send two probes to 0500

Six questions [If applicable]​

1. Who is the greatest swordsmaster/melee duelist on the planet?​
2. What kind of spores are on Chia? [Its a massive chia pet. Well played sir.]​
3. What defenses does the failing Mila 5 Station have?​
4. Who/What is this outsider desperate for aid?​
5. What is the Military Genius's expected end goal?​
6. How popular is the peaceful partisan looking?​

Actions
1. Renovate Faqu 5 back into a proper research station for 1 VP.
[Decision point I held off from earlier]

2. Deploy and claim the now vacant Catota 5 space station, searching the ex-pirate supply hub for anything interesting or valuable before turning it into a waystation for the local system.

Bonus Actions
1. Movement
After both actions, move to System 0500

2. Bonus Deployment
Deploy to claim the secret cache of high-tech military gear [Using Tau/Enoulian for the deployment]​

 

[Beckoncall]

Kloudy :

Order Summary:
Continue work on The Hadron. Earth Caste have been recommended to construct logistics androids to conduct work remotely.
(1x Earth Caste Bonus Action)

The Earth Caste had to decide if they were going to solve the issue of Ya'Vala (undying workers/robots) was going to be handled in-house or if special requisition and materials would be used to tackle the problem. Marx came down with order from above and the first generation of Hadron Ya'Vala were approved for construction with full support of outside requisition. Kloudy marx gains a new auxillary unit -- (Ya'Vala MkI x 100) as an auxillary. These robots are needed most to operate and improve the Hadron, but can also be applied in tandem to larger task forces if desired/needed.) Ya'Vala are a great support to any labor endeavor, but only have one martial response to conflict, Lunging at an enemy and self-destructing explosively.)

Prepare MANTA-042 for incoming boarding. Combat-ready crew are to mobilised with equipment for defence against deep-strike tactics. An XV8 Crisis Suit is stationed on the bridge and another will patrol the ship.
(1x Action)
The Manta-042 is put on Yellow Alert, and all hands have designated fallback points and rooms are individually pressurized to expose intruders to vacuum if sections are lost. Crisis suit deployment and movement within the manta is difficult and offputting, but overall has an emboldening effect. Overall, the ship is hardened to boarding, at least for the time being.

Contact the Imperial vessel approaching 0706.
(1x Action)
(To be resolved in discord)

Probe Astartes cargo ship and scan for dangerous technology. Emphasis on dreadnought.
(2x Scan)

Dreadnaught fittied with deadly combo of crude but wildly effective Assault Cannon and Heavy Flamer. Two squads space marines are perpetually armed and armored, one assault squad and one tactical squad. They are lead by a Librarian and Chaplain who are seemingly reclusive even to their brethren. The librarian seems to be focusing a tremendous amount of energy interfacing to their communications/travel network for the imperium that is only barely understood by the Tau -- something called the Astronomicon. It is assumed they are attempting to contact/help navigate an ACTUAL space marine vessel to support and/or extract them...

Drones detect a large amount of Substance "Promethium" that is poorly secured and stored on the marine's vessel. This will likely be used in their endeavor aboard the space hulk to create copious amounts of Fire. For now, it presents an easy opportunity to destroy their ship...

 

[Kent]

Taskforce Valkyrie - Turn 3
Current Location: Sector 0704

Spoiler: Taskforce Details

Shas'El Commander
1 Manta Starship/Dropship (Base of Operations)
2 Crisis Suits
Earth Caste Taskforce (50)
Elite Tallerian Auxiliary Force (50)
Demiurg Auxiliary Force (200)
Jokaero Auxiliary Force (100)
Drones/Probes

Survey Sector(Upgraded):
Sector 0606

Order 1, Order 2, Bonus Construction Order: Construction of The Valkyrie Station

Spoiler: Order Details

Main Objective:
Create a Massive Spacestation aimed to be the "HQ" of this sector by combining the Former Pirate Hold and Bombardment Platform and making upgrades to existing infrastructure.

This station will not just serve the purpose of "mining" and "bombardment" but also act as a logistical foothold and a node in the entire sector. As such, it is also envisioned that space traffic will converge on this subsector with mercenaries, merchants, and others making stops or setting up in the station.

The Valkyrie Station will be a true "Tau Bastion" in the sector.

Additional:
- With Commander Naseur's recent and relatively massive success in the sector and the capability of his task force to conduct this construction, he attempts to establish contact with Merchant Admiral Eldi El'purri to ask for support on this endeavor as he proposes that it will also benefit the Merchant Admiral and future endeavors of not only the Merchant Fleet but also the Protector Fleet.

- Begin Upgrades for the next stage of the Bombardment Platform

- The Former Pirate Hold as the Headquarters of the Pirate Tellarian Mining Infrastructure is to be upgraded to better accommodate the much more advanced Tau Mining Infrastructure.

- After "Tau-ization" of the Mining Platform. Conduct mining/exploration operations on the Ancient Ruins which scanners report to have"
1.) Slaan(?) Historical Significance
2.) Antimatter Deposits
3.) Vaults full of ancient servitor robots.

Important Note:
1.) 2 "Miners" Demiurg Auxiliaries to support this action. If possible, request High Command to tap into the manpower of the former Tellarian Slaves who are already experienced in mining operations in this sector to assist.
2.) Efficiency Upgrades (17% Bonus for Upgrades, Construction, and similar actions).
3.) 3 orders are spent on this action, however, if this action is "too big" for 3 orders, then perhaps I can spend my 3 VP to make it possible?

 

[Crocodile]

Taskforce Mistrunner
Turn 4
​

---

"That was a tight run," declared Elder Voidsmith as he puffed on his pipe, the air vent already whirring to full power above him. The smoke swirling in rather nice shapes as it vanished away into the filter systems.

"Agreed, my men were ready for action but we are glad that a more agreeable trade deal was made. This saves us for whatever trouble these Silicoids are going to give us. What's our current plans on that, Shas'El?" Captain Vaulrie looks over at the leader of their taskforce for who was already bringing up the information on Iolos.

"My intent is to try to open communications with them. To establish understanding that carbon based lifeforms can speak with them and are seeking some form of ties with them. If they eat minerals perhaps we could offer then new mineral types to explore and possibly enjoy the consumption of?" Mistrunner asked as he looks towards Por'El Tradeflow with a curious expression. The Diplomat had so far done his best to facilitate things, allowing Mistrunner to negotiate on a level not all the other taskforces could. This was why he preferred to have the Water Caste close by due to the trade, government and diplomatic channels it allowed him to navigate.

"The Empire does have a vast array of various minerals. Perhaps the Silicoids would be open to this, or some other arrangement. First we mush initiate contact. The Demiurg will likely need to carry the burden on developing the device, but my people can aid in refining the methods to ensure the contact is clear and understood. This subsector is almost secured, we just need to see if the Silicoids can be shown the value of Tau'Va," Tradeflow said while drinking his tea and regarding the data being displayed. He was always the center of calm for these meeting, which was useful in the rare moments Vaulrie and Voidsmith could potentially start arguing.

"If not, my men are prepared to go to work. We can't let these beings keep eating sentients and this subsector won't be safe until they're dealt with," Captain Vaulrie said with a grim but determined expression.

"My thoughts exactly, Captain, which means the Manta will commence scanning in preparation for potential military action and maybe helpful for the contact. I would hope we could incorporate them, since their closeness to mineral formations could be boon to the Empire as a whole, more so if we could convince them to build colonies on mining worlds or even planets that cannot handle normal life so easily. Yet we must be ready to act. We will hope for peace and incorporation... but ready ourselves for doing what must be done to secure this subsector. The Empire needs its footholds to start true conquest while the Imperium is temporarily diverted fighting the Orks," Mistrunner declared with calm determination as he starts to show various zones on Iolos they'll start scanning for tactical and strategic planning.

"Aye, don't trust the Imperium to hold to that treaty forever. We got lucky that the Trader and those Marines were so open to this deal. That'll choke off most ambition, but it won't stop the serious xenophobes. All it'll takes is one Inquisitor of the wrong sort getting a stick up his port hole about this and we'll be up to our necks in Guard and potentially more violent and unreasonable Marines," Elder Voidsmith said with a sad tone as he puffs on his pipe. "My folk have dealt enough with the Imperium to see it happen. We definitely need to get this Sector developed and fortified for when the Imperium breaks its word. It won't be us that does it, I know that much."

There were many grim expressions at that but all nodded in agreement. The Imperium had been sated for now, convinced this Sector wasn't worth the resources to challenge the Tau for it. Better to to let the xenos take and hold it against other foes. Coldblooded but effective, the Tau would sooner hold the zone anyways, hopefully to bring more peoples into the Empire. Every Sector taken strengthened Tau'Va and showed its ways worked. Perhaps one day even the reclusive Fra'al might join the Empire after what had transpired here. Only time would tell.​

---

Bonuses
Flat 20% bonus to all diplomatic dice rolls for rest of game.

"Primed" (Bonuses/rerolls if used on offense) -- May wear off if not applied.

"Hardened vs. boarding" -- this descriptor will not wear off, new practices and fortifications for the Manta are established to maximize cost of invasion of the Manta, and minimization of loss of territory and personnel. Ship forces fall back to increasingly concentrated hardpoints, venting life support from areas retreated from to force advance or retreat.​

---

Actions
Move: Hold in current subsector

Probes: Iolos if possible

1: Manta will commence tactical scanning of Iolos to better grasp Silicoid clustering for cultural and military planning.

2: Demiurg will commence development of a harmonic communicator to make contact with the Silicoids.

Water: Water Caste will support the Demiurg in developing the harmonic communicator to attempt peaceful contact with Silicoids.​

 

[Beckoncall]

Cosmo :

System Survey
Send two probes to 0500

Six questions [If applicable] REGARDING PLANET CARRIZC, in System Nagnhil (0500)

1. Who is the greatest swordsmaster/melee duelist on the planet?
   Hands down Unreformed Warlord Leader : "Viconius Bhehet" -- Master of the "Xhivlis Forms" and killer of every other practitioner of the style. Uses advanced Mono-filament blades. Now Growing Old, He seeks to slay the King in Absentia in a duel for right to rule. The despot king in absentia threatens to destroy all spacecraft leaving the surface, so Viconius is staying put and fuming.
   
   
2. What kind of spores are on Chia? [Its a massive chia pet. Well played sir.]
   Ork Spores, Commander. Orkus Agaricus (is taking 100% of the local miners efforts to keep under fire suppression, but the fungus is still evolving/spreading faster than it can be killed. Gretchin and Squigs are already starting to pop up in the deepest and hardest reaches of Chia, with actual orks expected to begin spawning in a matter of weeks. Once the first orks are born on Chia those miners are good as dead. Ork incursion from OUTSIDE the sector has been precluded by diplomatic maneuvers -- but orks spawning INSIDE the delta Sector is an unexpected ill-fortune. Shas'El is advised to blast Chia into spacedust, any other course of action, including attempting to surpress the infestation with military incursion, risks stimulating greater spore activity and evolution.
   
   
   
3. What defenses does the failing Mila 5 Station have?
   Extremely well secured bulkheads and airlocks, penetrating or boarding the station will not be easy. It also has extensive point defense weapons it uses to stop missiles fired at it from the surface and a full rack of Thermo-Nuclear missiles it threatens to use on the surface if those defenses are breached/disarmed.
   
   
4. Who/What is this outsider desperate for aid?
   Several thousand Demiurg, with their leader called Mastersmith Aequalitas. Their craft was shot down by a nuclear missile from Mila 5 and are able to liftoff but fear the panicked tyrant would just down their ship again... They are sending a distress signal to any spacefaring race to help liberate them.
   
   
5. What is the Military Genius's expected end goal?
   Put simply, his end goal is renewing the Planet's space Exploration endeavors -- and has some interesting ideas even by Tau standards. Anything of any merit he managed to manufacture is destroyed from Orbit by Mila 5.
   
   
6. How popular is the peaceful partisan looking?
   By far the most promising leader to unite the planet and embrace the greater good... but the Tyrant of Mila 5 must be removed for his popular support to be recognized.

Actions
1. Renovate Faqu 5 back into a proper research station for 1 VP.
[Decision point I held off from earlier]
Done. (victory point awarded) -- gain 100-400 Discovery Points -- these can be applied to ANY percentile dice. (roll 1d4 to determine amount)

2. Deploy and claim the now vacant Catota 5 space station, searching the ex-pirate supply hub for anything interesting or valuable before turning it into a waystation for the local system. Looting of high-tech cache (see below) converts Catota 5 into a sector-wide armory station. (additional 2 VP awarded -- all players may specialize/upgrade units supplied from here)

You may take TWO of the following:
A) Gold and Gem stockpile (item/resource)
B) Deception Engine (2 uses) -- from all but visual scanners you can disguise your ship to have the footprint of another size class, up to Carrier/Battleship size.
C) Boarding Teleporter -- Superior to our drop technology, this can be attached to a manta or larger ship as an upgrade and can convey 100+ personell per combat round, or 500 personnel in a game turn.


Bonus Actions
1. Movement
After both actions, move to System 0500
Done.

2. Bonus Deployment
Deploy to claim the secret cache of high-tech military gear [Using Tau/Enoulian for the deployment]
(see above, Catota 5 becomes armory station) PLUS Cosmo gains 2x 100 "Tellerian pirate looters" auxillaries (these troops are very frail but do great damage/sabotage to enemy technology and are highly expendable. Tellerian Pirate troops are now hirable auxillaries (when VP shop opens)

 

[CamSkittle]

Taskforce Klaxon: Turn 4 (Searching for the Dream)​

Spoiler: Taskforce Detail

Por'El Commander
1 Manta Starship/Dropship (Base of Operations)
2 Crisis Suits
Water Caste Taskforce (50)
Gue'Vesa Auxiliary Force (100)
Kroot Auxiliary Force (100)
Kroot Auxiliary Force (100)
Vespid Auxiliary Force (100)
Gue'Vesa Cult-Burners (100)
Drones/Probes

​

The water shimmered as I sat next to the Ralxor Lake
Gue'Vesa, Kroot, Tau, and many more humanoids chatted, sat in the green grass
Transport craft flew above, no emissions, no noise
For the first time in my life, I smiled, taking in the breeze
It was beautiful
It was para-

I woke up, the metallic walls surrounding me feeling loud, intrusive. I let out a deep sigh, and got up.
"One day......one day, Kir'la."

I sat in the command center, gently rubbing my bandaged half of my face, a constant reminder of Montoro, of Klaxon and Thoris, and of the millions gone due to Chaos. I look towards the newest captain of the crew, Landon Jackson, otherwise known as Pyro the Captain of the Cult Burners. He looked at me with determination, then a smile.

"Por'El M'ont Mont'Dor Kir'La, it's a pleasure to work with you, and know that my men and I will do our best to help you live up to your title. It's an honor we don't take lightly." He looks for a response.

"I appreciate it, Jackson, though my troops as a whole should receive your grace, for they did great work."

"Of course. Now, where are we going to travel to next? Somewhere with heavy chaos influence to punch back?"

"The enthusiasm is nice, but we don't know a lot about this sector, how much Chaos is about. I'm looking for any planets to bring the Tau'va to. Mistrunner is currently dealing with negotiations in 0705, and has granted me permission to explore 0605."

"Permission?" Jin speaks up.

"Yes, permission. We have to work together with our fellow Tau. Marx and Naseur saved our lives, so we should help save theirs when in need."

"Yes, Warden." Jin puts her head down.

"Do as we did to Montoro, build a base and my Water Caste shall turn it into a hub for trade and communication. Understood?"

"Understood."

"Perfect. We are searching for possible paradise, and I want you all to imagine the families that we can bring prosperity to. Keep that in your mind when you make your next action. Now, off to your duties."

The Warden stares out into the coldness of space, dreams of a better universe right there, for the taking.

Actions:
Movement- 2 Hexes, from 0703 to 0605
Probing- Sent to 0605
Action 1- Made research base on Montoro (Found Lava Fungi)
Action 2- Gue'Vesa Auxilaries build a base in 0605
Caste Action- Water Caste to turn the base into a diplomatic hub (boosting Action 2)​

 

[Beckoncall]

Kent TURN 3

Main Objective:
Create a Massive Spacestation aimed to be the "HQ" of this sector by combining the Former Pirate Hold and Bombardment Platform and making upgrades to existing infrastructure.

This station will not just serve the purpose of "mining" and "bombardment" but also act as a logistical foothold and a node in the entire sector. As such, it is also envisioned that space traffic will converge on this subsector with mercenaries, merchants, and others making stops or setting up in the station.

The Valkyrie Station will be a true "Tau Bastion" in the sector.

REJECTED.

Grounds for rejection/countermand:
A) Hex is not centralized to the sector, in fact, it is on the border,
B) Any Planned hub, so say the ethereals, MUST be in a subsector with at least one planetary system, with at LEAST several million inhabitants.
C) Selected Hex, a massive debris field, is too hazardous to make a Sectorial Hub
D) All planets in the Balvicar subsector were destroyed by some as-of-yet unexplained phenomenon.

Any of the above reasons would preclude the construction of Valkyrie Bastion Station.

Construction had already begun on Valkyrie Bastion before site was rejected however, having the following effects:
1) Mining in the system rises significantly and the special resources are considered of strategic significant. (Plus 2 VP)
2) Asteroid Bombardment station is connected permanently to Pirate Hold -- Orbital station cannot be moved.


Additional:
- With Commander Naseur's recent and relatively massive success in the sector and the capability of his task force to conduct this construction, he attempts to establish contact with Merchant Admiral Eldi El'purri to ask for support on this endeavor as he proposes that it will also benefit the Merchant Admiral and future endeavors of not only the Merchant Fleet but also the Protector Fleet.

Contact established, action forbidden in lieu of already established Trade station in 0706 ( Crocodile gains 1 VP)
- Begin Upgrades for the next stage of the Bombardment Platform -- normally this would be in excess of the action limit, but the cancelled work allows for it.
Logistics and cataloging of all asteroids in system leads to optimization of Asteroid launch platform:
IF rolling for number of missiles, this number can be rerolled
If default 10s/6m/4L number is granted, +2 accuracy is granted.
Range of platform extends to 5 hexes.

- The Former Pirate Hold as the Headquarters of the Pirate Tellarian Mining Infrastructure is to be upgraded to better accommodate the much more advanced Tau Mining Infrastructure. (VP already granted for increased mining. Despite this, the asteroid belt remains a lonely backwater)

- After "Tau-ization" of the Mining Platform. Conduct mining/exploration operations on the Ancient Ruins which scanners report to have"
1.) Slaan(?) Historical Significance -- Massive discovery of an Ancient Slaan Library node -- A small museum is established for it's continued study.
Choose 1:
A: 600 Research points (these modify any d100)
B: 6 "Lore Points" -- Lore points give ancient information or prognostification of current events regarding mysterious or uncertain situations or phenomenon.
C: 4 VP
2.) Antimatter Deposits -- Remains status Quo. Kent receives 5 (Five) Animatter Seeker missiles with particularly pure samples.
3.) Vaults full of ancient servitor robots. Discovery not as notable as previously thought. Most vaults of Robots are empty, which was not anticipated. (-1 VP)

Important Note:
1.) 2 "Miners" Demiurg Auxiliaries to support this action. If possible, request High Command to tap into the manpower of the former Tellarian Slaves who are already experienced in mining operations in this sector to assist. (Leveraged for VP, above)
2.) Efficiency Upgrades (17% Bonus for Upgrades, Construction, and similar actions). Noted. primarily effecting rolls to exploit ruins.
3.) 3 orders are spent on this action, however, if this action is "too big" for 3 orders, then perhaps I can spend my 3 VP to make it possible?
Denied. VP cannot at this time be used for logistics, (but this may become a power in the future.)

Postscript Warning: 2+1 bonus action (Construction), Contact of El'Purri (waived as action), Infrastructure Upgrade (1st action too many), Exploitation of resources in subsector (2nd action too many)

Because your turn was too ambitious, certain actions may be penalized next turn to compensate.
Tau Earth Taskforce DISRUPTED for next turn, as they are exhausted by the scope of their work.

 

[Kent]

Taskforce Valkyrie - Turn 4
Current Location: Sector 0704
Move to: Sector 0606

Spoiler: Taskforce Details

Shas'El Commander
1 Manta Starship/Dropship (Base of Operations)
2 Crisis Suits
Earth Caste Taskforce (50)
Elite Tallerian Auxiliary Force (50)
Demiurg Auxiliary Force (200)
Jokaero Auxiliary Force (100)
Drones/Probes

Survey Sector(Upgraded):
Advanced Probe of Sector 0404

Order 1: Friends

Spoiler: Order Details

Contact identified "Friends", Establish Relations, and Plan for the Future

Order 2: Destruction, Death, and Assassination

Spoiler: Order Details

Gather the "several Draconis" vying for power in a single location through tricks and with the help of Xtanstravol, the Elder Draconis; SiepSiepZoo of the Tholian Liberation Front, and the Eldar Exodites, on any of the three bombardment targets.

The black rock bomb (provided by the Space Marines) will be sent to an agent who will sneak into the venue. Once the time is ripe, the bomb will be detonated. Regardless of success or failure, the asteroid bombardment will still continue.

Strategic Large Asteroid Bombardment on the followings targets:
1. Refueling Station Avarua 4
2. Camiling (Space Station)
3. Alien district -- "The seat of Camilis"

Note: Focus the bulk of the bombardment on wherever the draconic council is gathered.

Earth Caste Bonus Order: Rest, Recuperate, Reorganize

Spoiler: Order Details

Due to the half failure and half success of the construction operations, the Commander orders the Earth Tau Taskforce to rest and relax. Maybe they will recover and perhaps even gain something from this moment of respite.

 

[Kloudy]

Taskforce Nebulus
1x Shas'El Commander (Marx)
1x Manta Starship/Dropship (MANTA-042)
- 1x Mk. II Mining Laser "The Hadron" (Innovative/Promising/Range 1/50% Mk. III Progress)
2x XV8 Crisis Suits
1x Earth Caste Taskforce (50)
1x Thraxian Auxiliary Force (100)
1x Gue'Vesa Auxiliary Force (100)
1x Vespid Auxiliary Force (100)
1x Simulacra Auxiliary Force (100)
1x Ya'Vala Mk. I Auxiliary Force (100)

Savris Delta
Subsector 0706
-Turn IV-​

---

Orders
​

• The Bloodthirster
• Aftermath

• 
  
  The Bloodthirster​
  
  
  "Commander, we are picking up massive energy signatures spiking in Subsector 0703. Please advise."
  
  Shas'El Marx scowled as he brought up the readings on his holodeck. Titanic waves of warp energy was emanating from the Montoro system, where it's only planet was already in flames. Scans indicated that millions of lifeforms had been recently cremated, suggesting that this blazing planetary phenomenon was a recent occurrence. Whatever had happened there did not seem the type to be dealt with easily by a lone Manta. And yet, there was the lone Manta; Taskforce Victory commanded by the Warden, Shas'El Kir'la. It seemed her troubles were not over so soon, however.
  
  "Dear Tau'Va, what in the Ethereals is that?" One of the bridge crew exclaimed involuntarily.
  
  Scanners brought up a generated model of the titanic monstrosity as it loomed above Taskforce Victory with malicious intent.
  
  "That is a Bloodthirster," Marx replied, his tone surprisingly even and unperturbed, "An amalgam of bloodshed, death and warp energy. It is a likely theory that this planet was inhabited until very recently; the lives of millions sacrificed to the Chaos Gods."
  
  A few recoiled in shock and horror, some going white with nausea. The commander sighed and shook his head. This threat-category of enemy would ordinarily be too much for a single Manta to handle alone, or even easily with support. Luckily for Taskforce Nebulus, ordinary was not something their commander strived for.
  
  "Prime the Hadron for cross-sector activation. Prepare all jump-drives and ready the crew for combat."
  
  "Sir?" One of the bridge operators looked at Marx hesitantly, who in turn merely stared to the port ahead.
  
  "Today we destroy the pawns of gods. Roar mighty in the dark depths, and despair."
  
  In the distance, the Hadron began to glow magnificent.
  
  
  

  ---

  
  
  Subsector 0703​
  
  The battle was going about as well as would be expected.
  
  The Bloodthirster was closing in rapidly on Shas'El Kir'la's Manta with alarming speed, shrugging off kinetic and las-fire with relatively little discomfort. Some kind of meta-physical shielding seemed to be protecting it from some degree of harm. Ever closer it shot at the Tau vessel, chaotic, murderous fire streaking from it's eyes. Never before had many of the Tau crew seen a being of such concentrated malice and wrath.
  
  It almost seemed to be over before it started - the Bloodthirster had burst forward and come almost close enough to touch the ship of Taskforce Victory. It all appeared to be over, and before Marx had a chance to intervene - until...
  
  "Is that an asteroid?"
  
  "Looks more like a comet."
  
  "Wait, is that...?"
  
  Hurtling through space with tonnes and tonnes of force, a mobile hunk of rock and metal slammed into the demonic titan with impressive force. Such was the impact that the Bloodthirster was launched a satisfying distance from Kir'la's craft in a hurtling motion, enough to warrant her safety. Enough to buy Marx the time he needed to act.
  
  "Commander. I commend your efforts, but allow us assist you. You will quickly see the merit of Taskforce Nebulus."
  
  
  
  
  And no sooner had the transmission reached the Warden before a massive burst of energy streaked through the emptiness of space with all the luminosity of an imploding star. Those that did not heed the automatic warning to avert their eyes from the beam found themselves temporarily blinded by its sheer magnitude. Racing across space from one subsector to the next, the Hadron's beam slammed into the Bloodthirster's cosmic shielding with glorious zeal. Lashes of energy and light flew off the point of impact in an almost beautifying spectacle of engineering. Incandescent streaks burned bright and faded as the beam rushed and rumbled.
  
  It seemed as though the beam would not penetrate the chaos titan's defences, but at the last moment the translucent energy field burnt through and the Bloodthirster took the full force of the Hadron directly to the temple. Roaring and rumbling, shaking and shattering; the beam collided and burned at the creature with all the furious intent Vah'Kol's engineers could muster. Then the beam thinned and eventually reduced to threads as the charge was spent.
  
  The titan was blasted back and left to drift motionless.
  
  Not a moment too late, MANTA-042 jumped into the system with all weapons primed, "Finish it off, Warden!"
  
  And so they did, launching all of their ordinance at the colossal abomination with fervour. The explosions, if they made noise in the void, sang with glorious colours all over the monster's body. And then the most unsettling of events occurred: the giant feathered hands of some mysterious being pulled the Bloodthirster back through an opened rift in space, ripping it from their dimension and casting it into the next.
  
  The fight was over... for now.
  
  
• 
  
  
  Aftermath​
  
  With the battle in 0703 done, recovery was a necessity.
  
  Well, save for the crew of MANTA-042. As the Hadron had made up all of Taskforce Nebulus' participation against the Bloodthirster, Marx's ship had been undamaged and unexpended in munitions. In fact, right after the conclusion and after some preliminary scanning the MANTA-042 jumped out of the subsector to allow other taskforces to deal with the clean up and debrief.
  
  Hurtling through space, now was a good time to discuss other operations that were ongoing and decide upon new avenues to traverse. To start, Shas'El Marx had chosen Subsector 0404 as their next destination. It had occurred to him after the battle against Chaos that he had not yet united any planets under the Greater Good yet. As other commanders continued to expand Tau'Va across Savris Delta, Marx had to admit to himself that he may have obsessed too much over his toys. He mustn't forget his mission, his purpose. Unify the sector, spread the Tau'Va. Nothing more, nothing less. And 0404 seemed to present a number of curious anomalies that Marx was sure would grant him some objective parameters to achieve. Only time would tell.
  
  "Overseer, welcome. I should like to congratulate you on all the work you have done so far in this sector."
  
  Vah'Kol stood on the bridge with a puffed chest, pride oozing from his features in waves. Failed in his commander's eyes, the Overseer spent tireless hours and days working on the Hadron to improve it to the specifications he himself had drawn. Complications were expected, but to the point of it requiring your commander's attention? Disgraceful. And yet, from disgrace was Vah'Kol able to lift himself above.
  
  "Thank you, Commander. As you can see, my recommendation to test the weapon on the Chaos titan was not foolhardy. Although dangerous to operate on, the performance is parallel to none - of it's kind." The Overseer grinned and caught himself, an annoying habit he had accidentally picked up from Sergeant Killian.
  
  "Yes, the output greatly exceeded my expectations..." Marx looked out through the port at the Hadron and stroked his chin, "To think it could almost slay a creature of such dimensions..."
  
  Vah'Kol broke out into a burst of spluttering coughs and doubled over, hacking up a strange substance before straightening up again, "Forgive me, Commander. A side effect of the Hadron's defects. They will be fixed soon."
  
  Marx swivelled back to study the Tau with scrutinous eyes, "How does progress on the Ya'Vala fare?"
  
  The Ya'Vala were logistics androids constructed specifically to aid the development of the Hadron and assist the Earth Caste in other miscellaneous projects henceforth. The reason for this was due to the gargantuan laser expelling dangerous amounts of radiation. Those who worked on the device would quickly find themselves getting sick with irradiated blood. It was hard to replace trained or talented Earth Caste and even though the Gue'Vesa were there to help, morale plummet with the repeated deaths of crew. So the Ya'Vala were invented to serve as proxies for Vah'Kol's men. Built to resist the deadly rays of energy, they would operate on the Hadron with little fear for sustaining damage to their bodies. What had surprised the Overseer was the interest Sergeant Killian had shown in his work. Tau technology was rapidly exceeding what the Imperium could maintain, so it was rare to see a human that could keep up with cutting edge. It both surprised and impressed the Overseer, as did it Marx.
  
  "Excellently: they are finished. I have already set them to work on the laser and engineering-related casualties has dropped significantly." Vah'Kol held out his hand to a nearby officer who handed him a syringe, which he injected into himself, sighing as he did so.
  
  Marx nodded as he swiped through a few reports, "Good. I am glad you were able to overcome the opponent of your battlefield."
  
  Vah'Kol smiled again, but this time it was a hungry baring of teeth, "Oh, Commander, my wounds are temporary. Our last test-fire has allowed me to conduct research into the next iteration. I am already halfway to presenting you the Hadron Mk. III. This next one is going to be... destructive."
  
  The look in the Overseer's eyes had Marx picture a leering Kroot, salivating for its next meal. Too true for Vah'Kol, though his diet involved advanced feats of engineering. Even so, it was enough to spur something in Marx as well; a stirring of excitement in his heart. If the Mk. III turned out to be anything of what the Overseer had said, the future held very promising days indeed.
  
  "Very good, thank you Overseer. Rest, before that weapon becomes the death of you as well."
  
  Vah'Kol bowed and left, eager to continue fulfilling his life's purpose.
  
  Marx gazed once more out of the main viewing port, pondering what wonders lay ahead.
  
  
  

Order Summary:
Continue work on the Hadron, using the Ya'Vala to assist the Earth Caste
(2x Action + 1x Bonus Action)
Scan Subsector 0404
(1x Scanning)
Jump to Subsector 0404
(1x Movement)

Mentions:
Beckoncall
CamSkittle
Kent

 

[Beckoncall]

Kent

Advanced Scans (x2) of subsector 0606 - Designation Ahmar,
Systems: Edbeintiti, Felo

Refueling Station Avarua 4:

Occupation
Religious missionaries to travelers ("The Doctrine of Personal Power" -- highly divergent/opposed to the greater good!)
Situation
Deep-space signal (Transmitting dogma into Tau Sectors Rimward (right) of the Delta System. This should should be discretely stopped. Quickly.

Edbeintiti Summary:

Atmosphere
Breatheable mix
Temperature
Warm
Biosphere
No native biosphere -- rich alien biosphere brought by "the Proctors/Draconis"
Population
Alien civilization - 10s of milllions of Rock-like "Tholians" ruled by less than 1 million hyper-advanced "Draconis" raced called "Proctors" by the Tholian masses.
Tech Level
TL2/TL5 (Tholians are pre-industrial but use lots of Proctorate Tech, items they could never manufacture themselves) / The Proctors/Draconis are high spacefaring

Orbitals of Edbeintiti:

Camiling (Space Station)

Occupation
Eccentric oligarch and minions
Situation
Supply base for pirates -- trade of technology/supplies for biological sentients the Draconis drain for "essence"

Telz 4 (Space Station)

Occupation
Deranged but brilliant scientist (draconis)
Situation
Black market for the elite

Notable Mentions:

The tholians regard Draconis as their teachers and gods. The Draconis seem to consider the Tholians as tools and slaves, though the Tholians get much symbiotically/technologically from their "proctors" -- the Draconis encourage this practice with propaganda, infiltration of theology, and some psyker manipulation.

It seems the Draconis came to this world long before the mobility/intellect of the Tholians, and relics of their sparse inhabitance formed the basis for religion and technological progress for the Tholians. Since the Draconis have returned, they have been embraced fully by the Tholians who trust them implicitly. These Draconis seem to be exiles from their own world(s), Plutocrats playing god, or the last survivors of their race hiding in the Tholian system.

Enemies:

• Offworld xenophobe -- Callidus Assassin Cell with Inquisitoral support forces in hiding.
• Suspicious alien leader -- Tyranthraxus, Draconis Prime.
• Xenocultural imperialist -- Xqueevo, Tholian "Proctor-Supremist"

Friends:

• Benevolent alien -- Xtanstravol, Elder Draconis
• Native malcontent -- SiepSiepZoo - Tholian Liberation Front
• Gone-native offworlder -- 3000 Eldar Exodites, isolated in paradise crater hidden in polar mountains.

Complications:

• The enthusiasm is due to alien psionics or tech (Tholians Manipulated)
• The enthusiasm is based on a lie, the aliens strongly dislike their “groupies” (Draconis ARE using the Tholians, they are not primogenitors, they are refugees, exiles.)
• The aliens feel obliged to rule Tholians for their own good
• Tholians badly misunderstand the Draconis, almost all behavior seen as positive.

Things:

• Hybrid Draconis/Tholian tech (Interesting resource)
• Exotic alien crafts (The Draconis are ancient and have spectacular artifacts/treasures)
• Sophisticated xenolinguistic and xenocultural research data (Draconis surveyed many worlds to find perfect slaves... this information on lesser races is well protected, and valuable.

Places:

• Alien district -- "The seat of Camilis" -- a giant elevator/Babel-Tower leading up to Draconis Camilis Station.
• Cultural festival celebrating alien artist -- Cultural and Artistic gains to be gleans from peaceable extraction of aspects of these cultures. (potential resource)

Warning:
Several Draconis are vying for absolute power over the planet where a "council of Wyrms" once controlled politics and guided development. The Draconis may soon attempt to (re)start their own empire in this sector.

EDIT: REPORT INCOMPLETE, ADDITIONAL SYSTEM

Felo (Planet)

Atmosphere
Breatheable mix - Gas and Liquid environments both breatheable!
Temperature
Variable temperate-to-warm
Biosphere
Hybrid -- Gorgeous Exotic Desert land environments with wildly diverse and dark marine ecosystems.
Population
Population wildly miscalculated. Hundreds of Millions of Fluidentri (Liquid sentient lifeforms)
Tech Level
TL3 -- High Industrial, Pre-spacefaring. Evidence that nuclear technology was discovered long long ago zapping planet's residents back into the stone age, changing their forms to survive in the dark oceans.

Notables:

Taboo Treasure: The natives here produce something that is both fabulously valuable and strictly forbidden elsewhere in neighboring sectors. It may be a lethally addictive drug, or a useful substance that can only be made through excruciating suffering. This treasure is freely traded on the world, but bringing it elsewhere is usually an invitation to a long prison stay or worse. The Taboo Treasure is TWO different Commodities, One a Foodstuff called "Ambrosia" and another a relic technology of a previous civilization called "Dreamgrids"

Enemies:

• Maker of a vile commodity -- Slu Sluurm, Fluidentri "Willy Wonka"
• Smuggler for a powerful offworlder -- Stryxis Syndicates have iron lock on scant export of these black market goods.
• Depraved offworlder here for "fun" -- Dark Eldar, under avowals of "relative peace" use resorts here as paradise getaways.
• Local warlord who controls the treasure -- "The Slick" -- An aggregation/army of Fluidentri that control stockpiles of the Taboo resources, taxing the majority to be stored/hoarded for the right to sell/use slight amounts.

Friends:

• Reformer seeking to end its use -- SleeblubBlort (knows his race is enslaved by the goods)
• Innovator trying to repurpose the treasure in innocent ways -- "The Resplendent Plish"
• Wretched addict unwillingly prey to the treasure -- Dark eldar have brought regular Eldari here and turned them into junkies and concubine slaves.

Complications:

• The treasure is extremely hard to smuggle
• Its use visibly marks a user
• The natives consider it for their personal use only

Things:

• Load of the forbidden good
• Smuggling tech that could hide the good perfectly
• Blackmail data on offworld buyers of the good

Places:

• Den where the good is used
• Market selling the good to locals and a few outsiders
• Factory or processing area where the good is created

 

[Twist]

Lon Retheks...

/̵̗͈̺́ṋ̵̫͋̌͑̏s̷͍͚̱̦̿̓̈́͑̀̿̔̀̕3̸̡̛̖̳̝̼̱̆͗͛̏̓̾̉r̸̘͇̒̂̔t̷̜̩̳̃͑̔̈́͂͆̊ Naq/Lon Naq....

----------

Lok Naq....

R̷̠̩̬͕̿̑̈́͋3̷̯͖̜̤͍̪̱͔̌̀̉͊̕a̸͈̹̙̓̀ͅP̶̡̪̙̬̺̹̉̋̒̃͆̊̓̽/̶̧̱̙͚̿͗̽͊̊̔̕͘n̵̡̤͚̪͕͌̈́9̸̢̟͇̦̀....
---------

An/Ihs....

------

Decryption Successful...

Displaying Message.....

Tau'va Por'Sral Kor'Rua Report

Recorded Location....
Savris Delta......
Sector 702...
Manta 99

Registered Forces
Shas'Saal Ke'lshan Alesh...
Loading Personnel Records.....
Searching.....
.....
Downloading...
2 Crisis Suits......
1 Tau Fire Caste Taskforce....
50 Registered Personnel.....
Loading Personnel Records.....
Searching......
......
.....
Downloading....
3 Auxillary Taskforces...
400 Registered Personnel....
Loading Personnel Records.....
Searching.....
....
....
Cross-sectioning by Species.....
......
....
Human....
.....
......
Downloading....
....
....
Vespid....
....
....
Downloading....
....
....
Galg.....
.....
.....
....
Downloading....
....
....
....
Commander's Log found....
Open [Y/N].....
......
Opening....
.....
Error....
Program Timeout....
Opening in new window....

Commanders Log
Third Entry

Diana stared down the barrel of her pulse rifle, her lips dry as she waited patiently. Her shoulders grew weary as she lay on her belly, the temptation to move them and relieve their tension almost too much too bear. But her target was close, and she dared not move in case she missed her shot.

Suddenly a shadow moved, a fleeting image passing between two supply crates, but her finger had already pressed the trigger. "Bang! Your dead!"

Looking down the Fire Warrior could see the Marker Light jumping around his belly, his hand on his holster. Silently cursing himself, he held his hands up and approached the Gue-vesa. Rising to her feet she towered over the Tau, taking his hand in hers and shaking it firmly as Alesh spoke from behind.

"Good job" he stated flatly. "Three kills in a row. Not too shabby for an Auxiliary..."

Diana turned to him and saluted. "Thank you, Commander"

"I think you've done enough training with the Pulse Rifle" Alesh said, pulling from his back a smaller but no less deadly weapon. "Perhaps it's time we move on to something different. A Rail Rifle...."

He took from her the Pulse Rifle, watching with interest as the Gue-Vesa looked over the Tau weapon.

The sound of man made thunder erupted from the other room, a flash of artificial lightning just visible behind the sealed door. In that moment of illumination, the Galg within jumped to cover like a fleshy spring as the Crisis suit tracked it's movements with its heads up display, the Blacksun filter of the battlesuit dispersing the light of the Photon Grenade a moment too late.

Up above a Vespid crawled along the ceiling trying to close the gap between it and the other Crisis Suit, as it lay down fire upon it's cocky kinsmen. Growing nearer and nearer the Vespid gripped its Neutron Blaster tight in it's secondary limbs. Taking up position the Vespid secured itself to the ceiling as it passed the gun to it's main limbs and took aim. In a flash of light the pitch black room was illuminated once again, the harrowing drills of the Galg and Vespid in full swing against the Crisis Suits.

Free Action(s): Probe scan in Sector 603/ Manta 99 moves to same sector

Action 1: Vespid and Galg auxiliaries will performs drills in lowlight environments against Crisis Suits. Safety/ Blanks used.

Action 2: Fire Teams will train Gue'vesa in the use of Tau Weaponry.

 

[Beckoncall]

Crocodile

Probes: Probes, in each instance, are struck down by lightning storms seemingly caused by myriad silicoids working in unison. Silicoids are congregating in larger and larger numbers, and since we've been unable to get a probe through the atmosphere Silicoids have been banding together in larger and larger collections seemingly equidistant to one another. As this occurs, weather patterns worsen planetwide with the exception of the poles. The volume and power of lightning and other weather phenomenon is already enough to threaten the manta. Exercise Caution.

1: Manta will commence tactical scanning of Iolos to better grasp Silicoid clustering for cultural and military planning.

While probes no longer work to study the Iolos, the manta has some instruments capable of tracking convergences of Silicoids over the surface on various continents.
We have also discovered the Manta is being bombarded with a steady flood of hyperwave across all channels (Communication with other Tau is not possible without leaving the subsector) -- It is also a concern that if the silicoids can cut off Manta communication with the rest of the Tau, their focused hyperwave could potentially be destructive to us.

2: Demiurg will commence development of a harmonic communicator to make contact with the Silicoids
PLUS
Water: Water Caste will support the Demiurg in developing the harmonic communicator to attempt peaceful contact with Silicoids.

So far Silicoid intelligence and communication is an absolute mystery -- we've failed thus far to do anything but seemingly escalate their harmonic organization against us. Inverse wave harmonics have given the Demiurg a means to potentially cause directed vibrations destructive to even large collations of silicoids. Since these discoveries however it would seem the Silicoids are aware of our discoveries as well. They have begun to develop Hyperwave frequencies in the Microwave ranges that would slaughter Tau personnel through shields and armor from the surface. Many personnel are troubled by this, as we are basically in an unwitting arms race with the Silicoids before even being able to truly communicate with them, and we are isolated from getting help outside the system, unless we takes steps to leave the subsector first.

 

[Beckoncall]

CamSkittle :

Actions:
Movement- 2 Hexes, from 0703 to 0605

Probing- Sent to 0605

Subsector Analysis of 6005: Designation "Al-Dihi" -- Al-Dihi has THREE habitable planetary Systems, but only one of particular note by Occupation and points of interest, A Subsystem Designated "Chippe 1" The other two planets "Chippe 2" and "Chippe 3" are paradise/death worlds Described below:

Chippe 2: Paradise/Death World -- Chippe 2's planetary ecosystem (which is all tropical, is dominated by a very virulent and aggressive species of banana plant. Seeds can get through the smallest filters and seeds and grow in anything organic, including exposed flesh. A small number of alien ships have all arrived on Chippe 2 to the same result. Horrified expressions on dead space explorers, their suits grown full with bananas. This planet is more dangerous than it seems.

Chippe 3 is a beautiful beach world with highly psionic ceataceans infesting coastal waters. their psykik calls lure all animals, sentient and non, to stop all activity at predictable intervals during the day and night, to match like lemmings into the oceans to be consumes. The Native Ursine Population is slowly spiraling into extinction as a result of psychic predation.

However, Chippe 1 is the real find in the system:
Atmosphere
Corrosive -- The native species (Sakkra) -- Have evolved to use the corrosive atmosphere to cleanse their lungs of otherwise dangerous plaque-causing bacteria. Offworlders must wear high quality air filters to avoid horribly respiratory scarring...
Temperature
Variable temperate-to-warm
Biosphere
Hybrid -- Approximately half of the environment is overgrown with bacterial proliferators which the Sakkra use for sustentence, which is counterbalanced by corrosives in the atmosphere. The rest of the environment is extremely muddy and mucus-like on the surface, with very complex and developed subterannian complexes reflecting TL4 (early spacefaring) technology.
Population
Hundreds of millions of inhabitants This is likely the most populous system found yet in the Savris Delta Sector. The number of individuals that could be added to the greater good must not be overlooked.
Tech Level
TL4

Points of Interest:

Enemies:

• Defense installation commander -- Sakkra were previously a space faring race that Lost a great war with a race they call the "Stratified" -- As part of an ancient capitulation, the population is confined to the surface of their homeworld, though Stratified security vessels, and then probes, less and less frequently came to check on them until it's been 200k years since their last encounter.
  
  
• Suspicious patrol leader -- Worried the Tau are a "Stratified Ruse" to test their self-policing. Very hostile.

Friends:

• Relative of a person trapped on the world -- Imperial Noble with extremely well equipped company of mercenares -- hell bent on getting a Crashlanded ship off Chippe 1 before his VIPs die from the corrosive atmosphere.
• Galactic relief official -- An ancient Slann that seeks to free the Sakkra from their prison, believing the Stratified to be extinct or beyond caring about the imprisonment. Very old and senile.
• Treasure hunter -- Krellian Dog-Looters who have catalogued stockpiles of pre-fall Sakkra technology for looting. Willing to aid for cooperation in their goal.

Complications:

• The natives want to remain isolated
• The quarantine is enforced by an ancient alien installation (STRATUS-IV) is a Relic AI that enforces the prisoner/quarantine. STRATUS has solved many planetary complications since ther enslavement, and is revered as an everliving "President" of the planet.

Things:

• Defense grid key (Held by STRATUS)
• Bribe for getting someone out --Imperial nobles who wish to buy passage off the world for their VIPs. Bribe is in "Bittergem" -- a ultra-rare substance of great value to the Tau.t
• Abandoned alien tech -- The stratified left a global army of robotic warriors to support stratus that only remained in service for 15k years. They are not valuable themselves, but contain valuable elements for spacefaring. (Resource?)

Places:

• Bridge of a blockading ship -- One craft Protected Chippe 1 -- A armed and armored Stratified Relic-ship called "The Glork" The glork interrupts all transmissions to the surface and must be dealt with before any other overt maneuvers.
• Refugee camp -- Over the many millenia many races have become trapped on Chippe 1. One City boasts over 1 million inhabitants of pluralistic composition.

Action 1- Made research base on Montoro (Found Lava Fungi)
CamSkittle gains 5 "FED IT" points. If ever in a situation where a population or creatures or even an ecosystem is starving or would otherwise benefit, This Tau Taskforce can Feed it with Biomorphic Fungi. Additional points may be obtained by cultivating points to produce more points at a 2:1 ratio, though the fungi grow anywhere. The rest of the Fungi are sent back to the rest of the Tau Empire to help bolster the food supply and supply lines of challenged Septs. (+2 Victory points)

Action 2- Gue'Vesa Auxilaries build a base in 0605 -- This action is not possible -- Landing craft repelled with "Warning fire" (Sonic Missiles) from The Glorkian defense craft.

Caste Action- Water Caste to turn the base into a diplomatic hub (boosting Action 2) Failed -- see above.

 

[Cosmo]

Turn 5

≡≡≡≡≡ ≡≡≡≡≡ ≡≡≡≡≡

Neemva sat upon her seat overlooking the command deck of the Manta, her eyes flickering across a holographic display as lines of data and readouts were flooded before her. Another system, another list of problems. This one seemed a bit more straight forward then the last system, to which she was enormously grateful, she wasn't sure how she was going to word another report that boiled down to 'And then the Kroot devoured half the population'. Even if there was some, albeit grim, knowledge that another commander had lost an entire world while she only half. Still, it did nothing for her confidence in this new endeavor especially when reports of one Shas'El who was, somehow, amassing a personal fleet and another that had done the unthinkable, forging a treaty with the Imperium and their 'Space Marines' including another high tech, and valuable, race without firing a single shot. With heroes like them, were the rest of them truly needed? The rest of them seemed better off left on a battlefield somewhere or in a lab.

But her duty was her duty, she had failed once and this was her only shot to bring herself back up in her own eyes. The teleportation device they recovered would be invaluable in the acquisition of this system, but before that, there was the matter of the Orks to contend with. She had come to this portion of space to prepare for them, but in one fell swoop, they had been dealt with by the Imperium without a single Tau life needing to be lost... Her efforts in vain. Still, the mining station had an infestation, one that would grow and eventually spread to the planet, once it did, it would be all but impossible to remove it. Mining stations could be rebuilt easily enough, far easier and cheaper then risking a war against the greenskins in this system down the road. It would be destroyed, but she had no desire to blow it up while innocent works still remained. But she needed a place to put them as her Manta was hardly the suitable place to fit the workers of such a station, much less, she doubted she'd have the room to accomodate them. The nearby refueling station could work as a temporary housing structure until the system was dealt with and a new mining station built. Plus, while Neemva was not well versed in the workers rights of other places, indeed, even in her own home, she could only imagine the miners would live a much better life under the Tau'va. The crazed hermit at the refueling station was an issue, but she could only hope he could be reasoned with and, perhaps, the transmissions coming to it be blocked to stop the infernal racket the greenskins were making.

As for Carrizc? She had a plan, but to pull it off she would need to acquire help and... Do something she normally never would consider, but sometimes personal sacrifices had to be made for the Greater Good.

≡≡≡≡≡ ≡≡≡≡≡ ≡≡≡≡≡ ≡≡≡≡≡ ≡≡≡≡≡

Spoiler: Taskforce Shi'Vre

Shas'El Vior'La Nem'Sha [Fire Commander from the Vior'la Sept, title: The Defiant]
- Stryxis short list, Blinded Eye of Chaos
1 Manta Starship/Dropship (Base of Operations)
1 Crisis Suit
Fire Caste Taskforce (50)
- "Tandem -- Gue'Vesa"
Enoulians Auxiliary Force (100)
- Covert, Code Red
Kroot Auxiliary Force (100)
- Excited, Spoil-Hungry, Endurium Melee Gear, "Roly Poly" (Bonus to charge and retreat), Subdermal plating
Kroot Auxiliary Force (100)
- Excited, Spoil-Hungry, Endurium Melee Gear, "Roly Poly" (Bonus to charge and retreat), Subdermal plating
Tellerian Pirate Looters (100)
Tellerian Pirate Looters (100)
Drones/Probes

Current Location
0500

System Survey
Send probe to 0600

Actions
1. Open comms with half-crazed hermit caretaker of the refueling station at Zutphen 4.​

2. Evacuation and destruction of Chia Mining Station [Manta blasting it]. ​

Bonus Actions
Bonus Fire Caste Deployment
Before destroying the Chia Mining Station, Neemva will use the gretchin inside to give her auxiliaries training in both combat in tight corridors of space and experience in teleportation strikes. As the workers are evacuated, units will be 'deep struck' in to kill gretchin and burn spores [to cover the miners retreat as they will no longer be doing this]. This is not an attempt to clear out the station, or reclaim it, just training and to buy time for the evacuation. (Can teleport up to 500 a turn, have 500 auxs). Every aux and miner will go through decontamination in an effort to ensure no spores are brought with them. ​

Movement
After the actions/bonus are complete, they will move back to 0700 [So I can give keywords to everyone else. They'll be back next turn!]​

 

[Beckoncall]

Advanced Probe of Sector 0404
Scan Subsector 0404
(1x Scanning)
Jump to Subsector 0404
(1x Movement)
Kent Kloudy

Shas'el Marx slipped out of Ether Drive into Subsector 0404 to see Shas'el Naseur's probes were already surveying and ready to report to him. This was the most Anomalous subsector to be studied, and would likely promise challenges. And so it did.

The probes returned without stores of information, but ahead of the probe-cloud was a massive warship -- Battleship class.

"ATTENTIFY TAU IMPERIALIZERS! THIS IS THE SYSTEM OF THE MIGHTY THEWED K'TANG! DISABILIFY ALL SHIELDINGS AND WEAPONIFACTION OR WE WILL BE FOR... FOR... WE'LL HAVE TO SEE YOU AS HOSTILE!"

"TAU KAUYON HAVE VIOLAT... VIOLATATED... JUST RUSHED IN HERE BEFORE, AND WE SENT THEM PACKING! THE K'TANG SYSTEM IS FULLY MILITARIZED AND WILL NOT YIELD TO INTERSTELLAR HAIRY... INTERSTELLAR HARRY.... INTERSTELLAR HARE KRISHNAS! GO FIND TRANSIT HUB ELSEWHERE IN SECTOR AND PASS OUT PAMPHLETS YOU BALD, BLUE, SELF RIGHTIOUSITORY INVADERS!"

The comm screen flashed with a vision of the bridge, a dull barely lit room with hardly any displays and what buttons and inputs were existed were VERY large and brightly colored. The K'Tang command center looked more like a shuttered daycare center than a proper bridge -- if such a place was full of 12 foot tall mech suits crashing around and into each other in what would seem to be a comical effort to seem threatening.

NOTISIFY TAU INVADER! THIS IS BUT ONE SHIP WE CAN BRING TO BEAR IN DEFENSE OF THIS SYSTEM. YOU WILL NOT DISCOVERIFY OUR SECRETS OR CONFUSIFY OUR SINGULAR PURPOSE! DISARM AND FLY BACKWARDS AWAY ALONG IDENTICALIC VECTORS OR SUFFER IMMEDIATIFIED AGGRESSIFICATIONS!!!"

Decision Point:
The Battleship wants Shas'El Marx's Manta out of the subsector NOW. To comply would leave the neccesitate leaving the probes behind.

A) Stall. Open comms with the K'Tang and attempt to buy the time needed to gather probes and withdraw out of the relatively short sensor ranges of the K'Tang Vessel
B) Initiate hostilities -- The K'Tang Battleship is enormous, well armored and has crude but effective weapons, though their tech level is BARELY TL5 in most measurable catagories (except their mech exoskeletons which are seemingly very sophisticated and truly terrifying. Life sign scans of the K'Tang indicate that each individual is 98% robotic/cybernetic and %2 or less biotic.) A Manta might pose a significant threat with it's agility and range, but speed and defense promise a very risky fight.
C) A third operation of the commander(s) choosing.

This event must be navigated before scans of 0404 can be downloaded.
Kloudy is considered the primary on this event, but Kent , if desired, can participate...

 

[CamSkittle]

Taskforce Klaxon: Turn 5 (The Stratified, the Tau, the Future)​

Spoiler: Taskforce Detail

Por'El Commander
1 Manta Starship/Dropship (Base of Operations)
2 Crisis Suits
Water Caste Taskforce (50)
Gue'Vesa Auxiliary Force (100)
Kroot Auxiliary Force (100)
Kroot Auxiliary Force (100)
Vespid Auxiliary Force (100)
Gue'Vesa Cult-Burners (100)
Drones/Probes

​

The water shimmered as I sat next to the Ralxor Lake
Gue'Vesa, Kroot, Tau, and many more humanoids chatted, sat in the green grass
Transport craft flew above, no emissions, no noise
For the first time in my life, I smiled, taking in the breeze
I looked to my right, the love of my life sat there with me
I stared into their eyes
They were beautiful
Everything was beautiful
It was para-

I woke up, my unfinished mission report staring at me on my nightstand. Another good dream ended too soon. I couldn't remember who sat next to me, only that they made me feel whole. I sat up, ready to make my dreams reality, for the Tau'va, for my fellow commanders, and for myself. I suddenly heard a knock on my door.

"Warden, it's me, Jin. Can I come in?" the Gue'Vesa auxilary leader muffled through the door.

"You may, Jin, I just got up."

She opened the door, her typical white armor now replaced by a white silk uniform, bearing the symbol of her home planet and rank. Her short black hair covered her left eye, while the right reflected the dim blue light in my quarters, her green iris shimmering. Jin was tall for a Gue'Vesa female, standing at 1.88 meters, even so she always seemed to be even taller with her natural prescence. She sat down at my desk, looking at me in concern.

"Just wanted to check in on you, see if you're holding up Warden." Her voice was slighly deeper than the typical female of her species, but with an elegant touch.

"I appreciate it, Jin, but I'm doing fine."

"I know Montoro....was rough. You did your best to represent the Tau'va, and the people believed in you. I know you'll make the Sakkra believe in it too." Jin smiled.

"Thank you Jin, speaking of the Sakkra, I have my assignment for you now that Sluutar is letting us through. Order 3029."

"Sounds good Warden. I'll meet up with the Water Caste to see how best to build the base on the planet. We won't you let you down, the Tau'va shall enlighten these people by the end of the mission." Jin stood up, heading out of my quarters.

"Thank you Jin, I know you'll do well." I stated as she left and closed the door. "You always have the goal in front of you." I muttered to my self, before getting dressed in my diplomat robes. I headed out to the command center, and in the middle of the hallway stood Landon, the leader of the Cult-Burners. He wore a black and red uniform, patches on his left arm signifying his rank and nickname, Pyro. The uniform matched well with his darker brown skin, which was matched with a clean shaven face. He looked in my direction, locking his brown eyes towards mine and giving me a smirk. "How do you do, Warden?"

"I'm doing well, thank you Landon. I see you've done your braids a bit different for today." I look up at the now thicker braids that have been tied up into a ponytail. Landon laughs.

"Yeah, was a pain to do but eventually, after 3 hours and messaging my dad I was able to get it!" Landon laughs, it's extremely light and contagious, even I smirk. "The result was definitely worth it." His laugh turned into a warm smile, his teeth were shining white.

"Might have to do something with my own hair someday." I flicked my pale white hair to the side, which reached my shoulders. Landon gives another contagious laugh.

"Oh Warden, I can do it if you need to, I would just have to call my dad. Anyway, have anything for me?"

"Not for now, but after we enlighten and obtain this planet, I want your men to do a search for any significant signs of Chaos."

"Sounds good! We'll burn their influence so clean you wouldn't be able to tell they were their." Landon gave another smirk, before heading off to his quarters. "Just call me if you need anything, M'ont Mont'Dor." He whistled as he opened his door, and headed inside on a higher note. I smirk again, before heading inside the command chamber, where I ordered Shaper Draktab Jta to head to for his orders. He sat in his usual spot, dressed in the Kroot's version of an official uniform, a leather vest with a ragged skirt, arms crossed staring at the door. As I entered, he stood up, straightened his back, and locked his eyes with mine.

"Warden! Ready for anything you can throw at me. Want me to exterminate the banana plants on Chippe 2? Start the attack on the filithy Stratified forces?!" Jta sternly asked me, his
black quills raising slightly up in anticipation.

"Actually, I have something special for your troops. You've read the reports on Chippe 3, correct?"

"Yes! Psychic cetaceans that lure in prey and devour them! True predators, crafty. Poor Ursine population can't handle their power."

"Well, I'm going to have your Kroot go to Chippe 3, search for any beached bodies of those cetaceans or those on huntable shallow shores, and devour them. I want to see if you can adopt their psychic abilities, for they may be a great help to the Tau'va."

"Yes Warden!" Jta yelled without a second thought. "My Kroot will become the ultimate fighters of the body and mind! All will fear us on the battlefield!" Jta ran out of the command center towards his auxilaries, the only thing I can mutter being "Here he goes again."

I look towards Chippe 1 from the command center. My gem, a planet filled with people who can help the Tau, the Tau'va, and in return we'll help them. The Sakkra will become apart of the Tau, and they will prosper.

Actions:
Probing- Sent to further analyze the planet of Chippe 1
Action 1- Send Kroot Auxilaries to Chippe 3 to find dead psychic cetaceans or hunt them to devour and try to obtain psychic ability
Action 2- Gue'Vesa Auxilaries build a base in 0605
Caste Action- Water Caste to turn the base into a diplomatic hub (boosting Action 2)​

 

[Crocodile]

Taskforce Mistrunner
Turn 5

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The bridge was tense after the reaction of the Silicoids to the efforts to study them or communicate. Shas'El Mistrunner sat in his command chair looking thoughtful if a bit disappointed. The visceral reaction of the Silicoids was forcing him to consider less pleasant methods of securing the subsector. That sheer violent hostility with its potential reach meant they would likely hazard any major development of this region. That was unacceptable.

"I had hopes we could parlay with them by this point, Por'El Tradeflow said with a sad expression as he seems to be pondering the situation. "We still have time to try, perhaps our approach was wrong for the initial translation. The Demiurg have developed the means to at least communicate. It falls to my group to try to rectify the potential error we may have caused."

"I bet they understood just fine, just have their brains up their portholes about species superiority," Elder Voidsmith grumbles from his workstation he had long ago claimed on the bridge to help make sure thing functioned aboard or to manage his crew. "Ain't the first species thinks its all high and mighty. I think its a coping mechanism or something. I'd probably scream a bunch about superiority too if I was a miserable piece of rock."

"We're going to relocate," Mistrunner stated as he starts to check the charts and sets course for a abundant asteroid cluster. "Best scans indicate we'll be shielded here. We'll leave a Communications Drone in orbit to relay messages to try to continue true contact with the Silicoids. While that goes on, we will commence operations to develop an alternative solution with a Fabrication facility. The Gue'Vesa will provide reliable security and labor to hopefully ensure things are better handled."
​

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Bonuses
Flat 25% bonus to all diplomatic dice rolls for rest of game.

"Primed" (Bonuses/rerolls if used on offense) -- May wear off if not applied.

"Hardened vs. boarding" -- this descriptor will not wear off, new practices and fortifications for the Manta are established to maximize cost of invasion of the Manta, and minimization of loss of territory and personnel. Ship forces fall back to increasingly concentrated hardpoints, venting life support from areas retreated from to force advance or retreat.​

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Actions
Move: Reposition in Asteroid Cluster for Hyperwave shielding.

Probes: Place Communications Drone in geosynchronous orbit at the North Pole of Iolos to attempt to maintain communication efforts with Silicoids.

1: Demiurg will construct a Fabrication Base in the Asteroid Cluster to commence planning for dealing with the Silicoids.

2: Gue'Vesa will help provide labor for construction of Fabrication Base to free up Demiurg focus on the major aspects.

Water: Water Caste will continue efforts to decipher Silicoids communications in the hope of trying to at least understand the beings.​

 

[Beckoncall]

Free Action(s): Probe scan in Sector 603/ Manta 99 moves to same sector


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Subsector 0603 -- Designated "Cosmic Sands"

This subsector was absolutely RIFE with microdebris. The Shields of Manta 99 shined and pulsed like a firework display as truly tiny to somewhat sizeable pieces of metal, ice and stone burned and bounced off the deflectors. Waves and tides of this debris were thrown on far-flung solar winds, occasionally actually penetrating the shields and covering small patches of Manta-99 with multitudes of tiny pock-marks and sandblasted paint and insignia off the craft. The longer Manta 99 remained in the subsector, the aggregate fatigue on the ship's external hull wore on. For empty space, this area had it's own dangers -- and the Tau could only wonder with concern what the result of this strange space weather would have on the Manta if it's shield systems were not so strong and robust.

Dust and microfilaments of nearly every discovered element could be found in trace amounts in the debris tides -- some materials were alloys and substances yet to be discovered and studied by the Tau. There was potential for Research Here.

After a period of study it was discovered that the eddies and waves of debris followed a pattern that suggested a gravity well within the subsector, and the Manta moved towards it for analysis. What they found was disconcerting, to stay the least.

In the Mathematical center of the subsector resided a gigantic Green-metal fortress, spinning like a miniature lightless sun around which countless destroyed space vessels floated, being broken down by armies of Insect-like robotic drones. One satellite was trapped in orbit of this strange device/structure -- a graveyard of crippled ships tethered together with welding, grappling devices, and in many places simply crashed into one another. But this was no space hulk... lights and crackles of energy flashed here and there and life signs of various sentient creatures moves along it's corridors. Drones approximated them to be gangs of former ship crews that had formed alliances and rivalries, constantly fighting for the means to produce water and other means of sustenance and fighting for scarce resources in the amalgamation like gangs, even as the robotic drones pulled the most valuable parts of the ships away from the mass and into the Eeriely silent and ominous space fortress.

Alesh had little time to think about the situation when a larger than normal green-metal ship, flute shaped and composed mostly of some kind of capital weapon, emerged from the fortress and began to circle around the Manta... as if casing it or probing it for aggression. At the same time, several distress calls were coming in from the mass of tethered and crashed-together ships. No means or attempts of communication from the Fortress or it's Flute-like destroyer...

Alesh would need to decide what to do, and quickly, before the situation resolved itself for them...

__________


Action 1: Vespid and Galg auxiliaries will performs drills in lowlight environments against Crisis Suits. Safety/ Blanks used.

The Galg excelled in nearly every scenario in the Tau drills, beating the other auxillaries and even after multiple poor outcomes learned tactics to counter the crisis suits.
Galg Veteran Auxillaries gain "David Protocols" descriptor -- a high risk, high reward action that can be used against armor, vehicles or other strongpoints that would normally outmatch small auxillary team. Vespid gain "Temporary Resentment" descriptor for coming out last in the competition... which confers a morale penalty but also gives the auxillary something to prove.

Action 2: Fire Teams will train Gue'vesa in the use of Tau Weaponry.
Gue'Vesa Auxillary is upgraded to Gue'vesa "Sentinel Infantry" -- Adopting Tau weapons and armor. This unit has "Unproven" Descriptor -- it will be hard to tell exactly how well these units will function outside of a test-scenario until they are applied to real-fire exercises, but preliminary metrics put them as more powerful now at medium to long range, and capable of brutalizing Tau Fire warriors in melee.


Twist



Potential Scene: Reaction to system phenomenon, or instead withdrawal of Manta from subsector.

 

[Beckoncall]

Cosmo :

Scan of Subsector 0600:

Empty vastness of space. Nothing. Nothing here at all.

1. Open comms with half-crazed hermit caretaker of the refueling station at Zutphen 4.

The Madman is a local being called Bahal Bhehet -- lost brother to Viconius Bhehet, the greatest swordsman on Carrizc. He offers traininig in the "Xhivlis Forms" for "adequate recompense"... It is a dangerous martial art, usually benefiting most from bladed weapons, with or against them.

2. Evacuation and destruction of Chia Mining Station [Manta blasting it].

Neemva's auxillaries sweep and clear every single gretchin from Chia mining station before blasting the station to pieces. The miners were horribly infected with spores, and Chia station irretriavably contaminated, but in the end Tau care and thoroughness annihilated the threat. All auxillaries gain "Blooded" Descriptor.

Bonus Actions
Bonus Fire Caste Deployment
Before destroying the Chia Mining Station, Neemva will use the gretchin inside to give her auxiliaries training in both combat in tight corridors of space and experience in teleportation strikes. As the workers are evacuated, units will be 'deep struck' in to kill gretchin and burn spores [to cover the miners retreat as they will no longer be doing this]. This is not an attempt to clear out the station, or reclaim it, just training and to buy time for the evacuation. (Can teleport up to 500 a turn, have 500 auxs). Every aux and miner will go through decontamination in an effort to ensure no spores are brought with them.

See above.

 

[Beckoncall]

CamSkittle :

Kroot Task forces communications jammed by psyker powers. Distress signal sent then interrupted. 50 Kroot march into the sea and are eaten. The remaining 50 Kroot survive by tying or binding themselves to coastal material until "Whale Calls" finally cease. (Kroot Auxillary Disrupted for TWO turns for replacements and reconditioning, as those who survive are deeply effected by the experience.)

Glork is bypassed, Diplomatic Base established on Chippe 1 in refugee city "Dokuamo" known for diverse population of stranded travellers, who quickly embrace the prospect of freedom from Chippe 1 the Tau represent. This enthusiasm is underestimated however, and a "Coalition of the Displaced" immediately lay siege to the embassy shortly after the arrival of the water caste.

"Zhanshi, Jin Reporting!"

"Numerous Gue'Vesa soldiers captured or encircled. Voluminous TL4-5 weapons and directional shielding employed by seiging forces!"
"The enemy are not using lethal force as of yet against us, so we have responded in kind with non-lethal settings and armaments, but the Water Caste diplomats are cornered in the center of the Embassy build site with Myself and only a quarter of the Auxillary to defend them. Enemies will NOT negotiate. We will NOT allow the Diplomats to fall into enemy hands. Seeking guidance, or permission to light up encroaching forces with full retaliatory energy!"

(Hostage situation on Chippe 1 -- Naviagate in Discord)