Hi All.
I am starting my exploration to deep and beyond space and it will play out as a story over the coming months.
There will be some instances where the members of the forum can have a say/input into how the story will develop, with a major story changing input from the start. (see below in RED)
THE BEGINNING
Star date 03-08-3303
Commander Log P383303
… Sir, yes sir!... is all I remember from my dream as I wake up. I open my eyes slowly and look outside to see Kosmala Rewards slowly rotating, in a red fuzzy haze.
Usually I would jump out of bed to get ready for the day but today I decided to stay a bit longer in bed. It’s my last day with civilization after all for a very long time.
As my thoughts wonder and jump around an arm moves from underneath the blanket and wraps around my shoulder, then gives me a slap.
That’s my queue to make coffee for the wife. I slowly stumbled out of bed and can hear commotion in the lounge. Our 2-year-old boy seems to be up already.
Its hard, but this is the life I chose and I am going to miss them….
My holo-com vibrates on my arm, and although the name shows up as unidentified I know who it is.
I answered it with a short, Yip.
“Admiral Silvrav, ZAR502 is standing by for lift off. Just waiting on you sir”
“It’s commander Silvrav Johnny. Give me 10mins and I will be down”
Although Millport has become a shadow if its formal self, some people don’t want to let the past go.
I say my goodbyes, seeing my wife holding back the tears, being strong for the sake of our son.
My Son, waving and while chanting Tata as if it’s a normal day where I would return after work to see him again, unknowing that I will most likely only see him at his 3rd birthday party.
As the door closes behind me I take 2mins to say a prayer for my family to be safe and that I would return safely to them.
As I move down the passage and into the elevator, Elite dogfighter Elina slips in just before the door closes.
She looks older then the day I first recruited her out the academy as an energetic novice pilot. She has served me well over the last 2 years.
She begs me one last time to take her with and as much as I know I would need the company, I also know what torture deep space can be.
I am Just not sure she will be able to handle it.
I enter the hangar and the hauler in front is my last voyage with civilization.
It’s a short 515Ly trip from Millport to Farseer Inc, but it will feel like a 10,000LY trip as my mind wonder and my time with civilization shortens….
MEMBERS INPUT : Should Elina (aka a figher bay) go with on the deep space exploration or not?
……2weeks earlier
Star date 20-07-3303
“Admiral Silvrav” I hear Johnny shout from behind me as I walk to the canteen.
“It’s commander Silvrav now Johnny”
You see, I am an ex admiral of the federation fleet and after early retirement decided to be an adviser to the exploration pilots of the federation.
Johnny gives me the news that admiral Pankina wants to see my asap.
I guess lunch can wait and a make a 180 towards the main deck elevator. On the 10th floor I exit and approach the admirals’ secretary but before I could even request to the see the admiral, his door opens. Lady Gaia, Vice admiral Pilatas wife, walks out. I notice her grey hair before I notice the tears in her eyes.
Admiral Pankina waves me in and as I approach offers a handshake as we walk into his office.
Adm Pankina :“How are you Commander? Wife and kids going well?”
Cmdr Silvrav : “All good sir. The little one just turned 2 and giving us hell with his new-found words”
Adm Pankina “ Good good, Thank you for coming so quickly. The situation we found ourselves in does not allow the luxury for time. Here, have a seat. Some scotch?"
It is 12h00 in the afternoon, a bit early but only few men have been able to say no to admiral Pankina.
The Admiral takes out two of his finest crystal glasses and takes a bottle out from under his desk, instead of the one standing on the liquor cabinet.
He looks towards and with a wink, whispers “the good stuff I hide from people”
He hands me a glass and we both sit for few minutes just sipping away lost in our thoughts, him most likely building up the courage to ask me and me wondering what on earth is this all about.
Adm Pankina “ There is not easy way to say this so I am just going to say it. Vice admiral Pilatas and his Vessel, the commador, was lost this morning during a convoy ambush. Unfortunately, his vessel was bare bone as it was on its way to get outfitted. But even if it was battle ready the changes were still slim that they would have made it out alive.
This has however left the federation in a rather embarrassing predicament. You see, Vice admiral Pilatas was to undergo an exploration mission, but not just any exploration mission. One that was, is, sponsored by various VIP’s. In return for their generous contributions each was promised that an undiscovered planet would be named after them. In addition, this mission is a join operation between the federation and the empire in hopes to discover more of the universe.”
“Now, the reason that you are here…..”
The admiral takes another sip of his scotch while looking out his window at passing federation vessels.
I have stopped taking sips as I listen intently but also for the fear of what’s coming next.
“After vice admiral Pilatas you are/were one of the best pilots we have. I know you always wanted to go exploring as you can’t be a fighter pilot anymore. I also know that your son just turned 2 and its possibly the worst time to ask this, but we need you to take vice admiral Pilatas place….”
In panic, I hastily take a gulp of scotch and have to fight back the cough it brings.
“…and commander, I unfortunately need an answer now. The departure date promised to the VIP's is the 04-08-3033 with an estimated time of 12months in the deep”
I completely miss the estimated mission time as my mind starts kicking into naval gear….and more so fighter pilot gear…and the most crucial for a fighter pilot…. preparation.
Cmdr Silvrav “but, sir, that is in 2 weeks? Exploration outfitting takes 12 weeks minimum. Not to mention procuring a new ship. You know federation procurement can take months to just get approval.”
Adm Pankina” We have already started the outfitting. We had an ex-battle class 8, Faulcon anaconda that was decommissioned. She served the federation for about 150 years and was recently replaced with a federation corvette. Luckily all the modules are still in storage and can be retro fitted to the “defiler” with some engineering.
I know I know, not the best name for an exploration vehicle so it’s up to you if you want to keep it or change it”
All while this conversation takes place my mind is running and thinking about the proposal. I always wanted an opportunity like this. I mean, it’s a once in a life time opportunity to see deep space, the unknown, the first man ever to be there. But then, my family….my wife, my son….
Adm Pankina “The current designated fit out is here https://eddp.co/u/7zr7HTur - I will send this to your holo-com for review if you want to change anything. There are no budget constraints.“
“We have left here with the bridge as is, and I am giving you clearance to take one federation officer with you if you wish.”
“Now, before you give me your answer see the suggested route that was planned for this journey. The route is not set except for the end point at beagle point”
Adm Pankina” So commander, I need your answer”
The Admiral definitely knows how to spark my interest…..and always has since our academy days.
I mull over a few more details…. the ship seems to be ready, the Admiral has obviously thought this though and again, it’s a once in a life time opportunity. The wife knows how I feel about this. She also knew she is marrying into a naval family and I will always be in contact with them via holo-me. Yes, it’s a hologram, but it’s as good as if I am there.
Cmdr Silvrav “ I will do it sir….on one condition. My family is ferried to beagles point on my approach. They are looked after in all aspects.”
Adm Pankina. “Done….now that we have you onboard the next 2 weeks is going to be hectic. I need you to review the ship and ensure you happy with it. Unfortunately, it is not here as Felicity is stuck at her fathers factory with a reactor that keeps overheating. She was gracious enough to agree to work on the Defiler as long as it is brought to her. So it was shipped to her with all the modules and mechanical teams yesterday morning. You will need to go out and inspect the ship before you depart in 2weeks time.”
“My secretary will have all the clearance papers and permits, and a Hauler + Johnny is standing by to use as required…. and commander…. Good luck.”
I sipped the last bit of scotch in my glass as I was staring out at the window at a beluga leaving the station. I place the glass down neatly on a coaster in front of me. I get up, shake the admirals hand and promptly exit his office, all while replaying in my head about what just happened……
……1weeks earlier
Star date 27-07-3303
I have successfully made it to Farseer inc in the Deciat system to come and inspect the Defiler and visit Felicty. Felicity is an old friend of my mothers and so far has done a great job giving this old girl a jump range of 58LY, but she mentioned she might be able to improve it even more.
Felicity Farseer : a legendary explorer, who engineered her own improvements to her Asp Explorer early in her career. She is willing to share some of that knowledge with fellow explorers and also operates an extensive training programme for technicians and mechanics heading out into the black. She based herself here at her father's mining and refinery facility, though in fact her operation is separate.
After some Deciat 3 coffee and homemade shortbread I head down to the hangar to inspect and run some system checks on the Defiler.
To Keep homage and respect to this old lady, I have decided to keep her name. On my surprise, the teams have done more than expected. The new hull extensions are fitted and she is painted, albeit still wet paint.
Some info on this class 8:The Anaconda is the pride of Faulcon deLacy's ship yards. The design was first manufactured in 2856 by RimLiner Galactic. After numerous mergers the template was eventually owned by Faulcon deLacy, who have made only minor changes to the classic design. The Anaconda is a versatile craft that can transport large cargos as well as pack a decent punch. Some smaller navies use the Anaconda in the light cruiser and frigate roles. The Anaconda can also be upgraded with a docking bay allowing small fighters up to Sidewinder size to be carried and launched.
I review the layout through my holo-com and ponder the idea of fitting a mining laser, but then again it adds more wait and I do have 2 SRV that I am taking with…I will give this a mull over and decide later on.
I decide to also head out and collect some resources while Felicity and crew works on the defiler. I discover this huge cannon and a small smile creeps up just thinking about the unknowns that I will discover.
After 2 days of very little sleep, mostly due to late nights catching up with Felicity I am back home. The family is nagging me that for a last family holiday before i leave, they would love to see the Quince system.
After some more talk, planning and packing we head down to the hauler, which is on standby to take us for one last family holiday before I head out.
MEMBERS INPUT : What is your thoughts on a mining laser?
I am starting my exploration to deep and beyond space and it will play out as a story over the coming months.
There will be some instances where the members of the forum can have a say/input into how the story will develop, with a major story changing input from the start. (see below in RED)
THE BEGINNING
Star date 03-08-3303
Commander Log P383303
… Sir, yes sir!... is all I remember from my dream as I wake up. I open my eyes slowly and look outside to see Kosmala Rewards slowly rotating, in a red fuzzy haze.
Usually I would jump out of bed to get ready for the day but today I decided to stay a bit longer in bed. It’s my last day with civilization after all for a very long time.
As my thoughts wonder and jump around an arm moves from underneath the blanket and wraps around my shoulder, then gives me a slap.
That’s my queue to make coffee for the wife. I slowly stumbled out of bed and can hear commotion in the lounge. Our 2-year-old boy seems to be up already.
Its hard, but this is the life I chose and I am going to miss them….
My holo-com vibrates on my arm, and although the name shows up as unidentified I know who it is.
I answered it with a short, Yip.
“Admiral Silvrav, ZAR502 is standing by for lift off. Just waiting on you sir”
“It’s commander Silvrav Johnny. Give me 10mins and I will be down”
Although Millport has become a shadow if its formal self, some people don’t want to let the past go.
I say my goodbyes, seeing my wife holding back the tears, being strong for the sake of our son.
My Son, waving and while chanting Tata as if it’s a normal day where I would return after work to see him again, unknowing that I will most likely only see him at his 3rd birthday party.
As the door closes behind me I take 2mins to say a prayer for my family to be safe and that I would return safely to them.
As I move down the passage and into the elevator, Elite dogfighter Elina slips in just before the door closes.
She looks older then the day I first recruited her out the academy as an energetic novice pilot. She has served me well over the last 2 years.
She begs me one last time to take her with and as much as I know I would need the company, I also know what torture deep space can be.
I am Just not sure she will be able to handle it.
I enter the hangar and the hauler in front is my last voyage with civilization.
It’s a short 515Ly trip from Millport to Farseer Inc, but it will feel like a 10,000LY trip as my mind wonder and my time with civilization shortens….
MEMBERS INPUT : Should Elina (aka a figher bay) go with on the deep space exploration or not?
……2weeks earlier
Star date 20-07-3303
“Admiral Silvrav” I hear Johnny shout from behind me as I walk to the canteen.
“It’s commander Silvrav now Johnny”
You see, I am an ex admiral of the federation fleet and after early retirement decided to be an adviser to the exploration pilots of the federation.
Johnny gives me the news that admiral Pankina wants to see my asap.
I guess lunch can wait and a make a 180 towards the main deck elevator. On the 10th floor I exit and approach the admirals’ secretary but before I could even request to the see the admiral, his door opens. Lady Gaia, Vice admiral Pilatas wife, walks out. I notice her grey hair before I notice the tears in her eyes.
Admiral Pankina waves me in and as I approach offers a handshake as we walk into his office.
Adm Pankina :“How are you Commander? Wife and kids going well?”
Cmdr Silvrav : “All good sir. The little one just turned 2 and giving us hell with his new-found words”
Adm Pankina “ Good good, Thank you for coming so quickly. The situation we found ourselves in does not allow the luxury for time. Here, have a seat. Some scotch?"
It is 12h00 in the afternoon, a bit early but only few men have been able to say no to admiral Pankina.
The Admiral takes out two of his finest crystal glasses and takes a bottle out from under his desk, instead of the one standing on the liquor cabinet.
He looks towards and with a wink, whispers “the good stuff I hide from people”
He hands me a glass and we both sit for few minutes just sipping away lost in our thoughts, him most likely building up the courage to ask me and me wondering what on earth is this all about.
Adm Pankina “ There is not easy way to say this so I am just going to say it. Vice admiral Pilatas and his Vessel, the commador, was lost this morning during a convoy ambush. Unfortunately, his vessel was bare bone as it was on its way to get outfitted. But even if it was battle ready the changes were still slim that they would have made it out alive.
This has however left the federation in a rather embarrassing predicament. You see, Vice admiral Pilatas was to undergo an exploration mission, but not just any exploration mission. One that was, is, sponsored by various VIP’s. In return for their generous contributions each was promised that an undiscovered planet would be named after them. In addition, this mission is a join operation between the federation and the empire in hopes to discover more of the universe.”
“Now, the reason that you are here…..”
The admiral takes another sip of his scotch while looking out his window at passing federation vessels.
I have stopped taking sips as I listen intently but also for the fear of what’s coming next.
“After vice admiral Pilatas you are/were one of the best pilots we have. I know you always wanted to go exploring as you can’t be a fighter pilot anymore. I also know that your son just turned 2 and its possibly the worst time to ask this, but we need you to take vice admiral Pilatas place….”
In panic, I hastily take a gulp of scotch and have to fight back the cough it brings.
“…and commander, I unfortunately need an answer now. The departure date promised to the VIP's is the 04-08-3033 with an estimated time of 12months in the deep”
I completely miss the estimated mission time as my mind starts kicking into naval gear….and more so fighter pilot gear…and the most crucial for a fighter pilot…. preparation.
Cmdr Silvrav “but, sir, that is in 2 weeks? Exploration outfitting takes 12 weeks minimum. Not to mention procuring a new ship. You know federation procurement can take months to just get approval.”
Adm Pankina” We have already started the outfitting. We had an ex-battle class 8, Faulcon anaconda that was decommissioned. She served the federation for about 150 years and was recently replaced with a federation corvette. Luckily all the modules are still in storage and can be retro fitted to the “defiler” with some engineering.
I know I know, not the best name for an exploration vehicle so it’s up to you if you want to keep it or change it”
All while this conversation takes place my mind is running and thinking about the proposal. I always wanted an opportunity like this. I mean, it’s a once in a life time opportunity to see deep space, the unknown, the first man ever to be there. But then, my family….my wife, my son….
Adm Pankina “The current designated fit out is here https://eddp.co/u/7zr7HTur - I will send this to your holo-com for review if you want to change anything. There are no budget constraints.“
“We have left here with the bridge as is, and I am giving you clearance to take one federation officer with you if you wish.”
“Now, before you give me your answer see the suggested route that was planned for this journey. The route is not set except for the end point at beagle point”
Adm Pankina” So commander, I need your answer”
The Admiral definitely knows how to spark my interest…..and always has since our academy days.
I mull over a few more details…. the ship seems to be ready, the Admiral has obviously thought this though and again, it’s a once in a life time opportunity. The wife knows how I feel about this. She also knew she is marrying into a naval family and I will always be in contact with them via holo-me. Yes, it’s a hologram, but it’s as good as if I am there.
Cmdr Silvrav “ I will do it sir….on one condition. My family is ferried to beagles point on my approach. They are looked after in all aspects.”
Adm Pankina. “Done….now that we have you onboard the next 2 weeks is going to be hectic. I need you to review the ship and ensure you happy with it. Unfortunately, it is not here as Felicity is stuck at her fathers factory with a reactor that keeps overheating. She was gracious enough to agree to work on the Defiler as long as it is brought to her. So it was shipped to her with all the modules and mechanical teams yesterday morning. You will need to go out and inspect the ship before you depart in 2weeks time.”
“My secretary will have all the clearance papers and permits, and a Hauler + Johnny is standing by to use as required…. and commander…. Good luck.”
I sipped the last bit of scotch in my glass as I was staring out at the window at a beluga leaving the station. I place the glass down neatly on a coaster in front of me. I get up, shake the admirals hand and promptly exit his office, all while replaying in my head about what just happened……
……1weeks earlier
Star date 27-07-3303
I have successfully made it to Farseer inc in the Deciat system to come and inspect the Defiler and visit Felicty. Felicity is an old friend of my mothers and so far has done a great job giving this old girl a jump range of 58LY, but she mentioned she might be able to improve it even more.
Felicity Farseer : a legendary explorer, who engineered her own improvements to her Asp Explorer early in her career. She is willing to share some of that knowledge with fellow explorers and also operates an extensive training programme for technicians and mechanics heading out into the black. She based herself here at her father's mining and refinery facility, though in fact her operation is separate.
After some Deciat 3 coffee and homemade shortbread I head down to the hangar to inspect and run some system checks on the Defiler.
To Keep homage and respect to this old lady, I have decided to keep her name. On my surprise, the teams have done more than expected. The new hull extensions are fitted and she is painted, albeit still wet paint.
Some info on this class 8:The Anaconda is the pride of Faulcon deLacy's ship yards. The design was first manufactured in 2856 by RimLiner Galactic. After numerous mergers the template was eventually owned by Faulcon deLacy, who have made only minor changes to the classic design. The Anaconda is a versatile craft that can transport large cargos as well as pack a decent punch. Some smaller navies use the Anaconda in the light cruiser and frigate roles. The Anaconda can also be upgraded with a docking bay allowing small fighters up to Sidewinder size to be carried and launched.
I review the layout through my holo-com and ponder the idea of fitting a mining laser, but then again it adds more wait and I do have 2 SRV that I am taking with…I will give this a mull over and decide later on.
I decide to also head out and collect some resources while Felicity and crew works on the defiler. I discover this huge cannon and a small smile creeps up just thinking about the unknowns that I will discover.
After 2 days of very little sleep, mostly due to late nights catching up with Felicity I am back home. The family is nagging me that for a last family holiday before i leave, they would love to see the Quince system.
After some more talk, planning and packing we head down to the hauler, which is on standby to take us for one last family holiday before I head out.
MEMBERS INPUT : What is your thoughts on a mining laser?
Last edited:
