NationStates Jolt Archive

Somewhere in Vrak…

Translated from Vrakian.

-Enter.
-Hello Intelligence Director.
-Ah, High Researcher. How are you?
-The same. Work however has been slow.
-Oh?
-This new technology, [a brief flipper wave] well, we can’t figure it out.
-I thought you had the best scientists on it.
-We do, but much of this is too advanced for us. That is, we can most likely figure out the principles but to replicate it…that will take some time. Whole new industries will have to be created, such as new alloys and whatnot. It’s not so easy to reverse engineer something.
-But don’t you have any working items?
[A sigh]. Yes, but mostly with the smaller items. Most, if not all the SOATs were destroyed and nearly beyond repair. And few of the larger items were captured intact. To say nothing of the large flying vehicles that Dozle used.
-So, what do you need?
-We need outside expertise here. Otherwise, it will take decades to even begin a working prototype.
-Let me think on that.
-I cannot stress the urgency of my request, especially that our rebuilding efforts include incorporating this new technology to its fullest.
-Yes, I know. But this matter required more than my say so. Perhap an audience with the King would be better.
-Indeed.

Within the day, the King himself granted an audience with his chief advisors. After weighing the issue with its implications, he greenlighted the plan to call in outside help. Due to the delicate nature and possible future implications, politically and militarily, a King’s Own (OOC: Vrakian special forces) courier was sent to the appropriate governmental agency, who delivered the message verbatim. That is, no written, recorded or otherwise form of message existed, save for what the courier perfectly memorized - who was careful not to reveal the entire message to just anyone.

To: Whom It May Concern
From: Vrak Military Research Division
Subject: An important matter

Our nation is currently engaged in a matter of utmost importance but we find that we lack the expertise. Essentially, we require your expertise, specifically in the fields of advanced engineering, physics, chemistry, biology, and military sciences. We are prepared to reward your experts handsomely or perhaps some other type of arrangement could be made. Please let us know of your decision ASAP.

Thank you.

At the end of reciting the message, the courier was instructed to give a special ring or rings, depending on how many would come, and memorize the features and voice of those who could come.

OOC: Open to all Klatchian and Order of the Seraphim members only. To speed it up, we can say that the experts have arrived and passed through the necessary security clearances - but it's up to you. Taka can offer his OOC input since this is his stuff we recovered from the Dozle war. All others may OOC tag if you wish – but very doubtful you would know anything about this ICly. Thanks.

OOC: Finally found the link. This is some of the stuff that we were able to salvage. Not the big space ships, but mainly ground equipment. Most likely, the biggest thing we could find would be the gunship - which we had fun with our wet navy battleships.

http://www.nationstates.net/forum/viewtopic.php?p=1840121#1840121

*tag* as it is my stuff.

Somewhere in Vrak…

Translated from Vrakian.

-How is the research proceeding?
-Painfully slow. Word on the outside experts?
-Still waiting High Researcher. Still waiting.
-Well, we could use their help.
-Indeed. And if that path fails, I always have another plan.
-I'm sure you do.

"Well, what do you think Dr.?"

"Well Dr., we have just only gotten into this type of stuff. But I believe that we may be able to do something here."

"Yes I agree with that assesment Dr. I have gazed over the possible list of salvaged equipment and I think that working with the Vrakians will help them as well as help our cause."

"Very well Dr. I shall leave immediatly with my assistants."

"Godspeed Dr."

------------------------------------------------------

Two days later the Jiggady Airlines 747 lands in Vrak and a small contingency of scientists from Jiggady disembark. Moving through the throngs of people they find their waiting limos and peel away towards the location they were directed to by the Vrakian science team.

A receptionist sits lazily behind a desk, desperatly fanning herself in the warm un airconditioned room. The slidding doors open and she looks up, welcoming the distraction from the monotonous afternoon.

"Goodday Miss. I am Dr. Maxwell and this is Dr. Max." Two men step forward from the group of five individuals in suits that walked through the front doors. The man introducing himself as Dr. Maxwell, extends his arm and places a document on the desk; their papers and authorizations for comming to the facility. She looks up to him and notices Dr. Maxwell's thinning blond hair and awkward trembling smile that forces him to refix the glasses on his face. Turning towards Dr. Max, she surprisingly notices that he looks eerily similar to Dr. Maxwell.

Twins? Clones? mused the receptionist – who was actually a Major in the King’s Own. But she kept such thoughts to herself as she perused the documents. Momentarily, she smoothly stood up and said in a silky voice, “Please follow me gentlemen, and welcome to our lands.” Behind her were six King’s Own – but they would be indistinguishable from regular soldiers. Two of them detached themselves from the group and were ready to provide an escort.

With cat-like grace, she walked along the huge concrete hallways lit by glaring fluorescent lights. She made some brief small talk, explaining that this was one of the nation’s military research facilities but as to what its exact purpose was she remained quiet, or simply didn’t know.

Presently, the small group arrived at a blast door outfitted with all manner of identification systems. She quickly punched in a long series of numbers and soon the steel door yawned open. She then led them down another hallway and soon into a conference room. Inside, three large walruses were busy settling themselves, as if ready to make a presentation. Upon seeing their fellow Klatchians, they bowed their heads and one waddled over.

“Gentlemen, may I present Dr. Maxwell, Dr. Max, and their colleagues of Jiggady.”

The nearest walrus bowed and exclaimed, “Welcome gentlemen. I am the Head Reasearcher of this facility. Please make yourself comfortable and I will explain everything shortly. Care for some fish?”

He gestured to the small, but heavily-laden buffet table at one corner of the room.

edit: fixed a typo.

OOC: the forums were acting shaky, so this is Jiggady's post

Dr. Maxwell shifted his eyes to the table and felt his stomach grumble in irritation. Dr. Max put a hand to his mouth to keep from coughing, they both reajusted their glasses and tried to smile.

"Fish doesnt sit right with us." Said Dr. Max.

"No, it doesnt sit well with us at all." Continued Dr. Maxwell

"Gives us terrible indigestion." Followed Dr. Max

"Yes, terrible terrible indigestion." Finished Dr. Maxwell.

Dr. Maxwell looked about the room, it was grey like most of the complex. During the walk down the various halls he made sure to pay strick attention to whatever he saw, comparing it to the complex they came from. He listened to the receptionist ramble on, with half interest. However, he was more interested in details but got nothing out of her. When he tried to ask about how they ran security or how many other scientists were at the facility she merely smiled and led them on.

They weren't all that hungry anyways, being more interested in getting right down to work. They had minimal experience with the materials that the Vrakians had mentioned in the letter, but they were the best from the complex. The progress they had made with this type of weaponry was still in its infancy but DYBBUK Complex had pushed hard for progress and what they came up with vastly surpased anything else in Jiggady. Their only problem was that DYBBUK was underfunded and progress was slow, hence their desire to get to work here. Dr. Maxwell turned his attention back to the walrus hosts and smiled, he glanced down at the odd ring on his finger and tucked his hand back under the long sleaves of his coat.

"Well, we thank you for the opportunity to work here. We are very interested in getting right down to work."

"Yes, we are most exited to work with your researchers and pool our talents."

"The materials you mentioned we are most interested in learning more about. We have made only minimal headway in our own facilities."

"Yes, we deffinetly want to know more about the weaponry you have assertained here."

The Max's continued on in this manner, talking in short sentances and picking up where each one left off.

ooc: DYBBUK is a secret organization, not known publicly.

Dr. Maxwell shifted his eyes to the table and felt his stomach grumble in irritation. Dr. Max put a hand to his mouth to keep from coughing, they both reajusted their glasses and tried to smile.

"Fish doesnt sit right with us." Said Dr. Max.

"No, it doesnt sit well with us at all." Continued Dr. Maxwell

"Gives us terrible indigestion." Followed Dr. Max

"Yes, terrible terrible indigestion." Finished Dr. Maxwell.

Dr. Maxwell looked about the room, it was grey like most of the complex. During the walk down the various halls he made sure to pay strick attention to whatever he saw, comparing it to the complex they came from. He listened to the receptionist ramble on, with half interest. However, he was more interested in details but got nothing out of her. When he tried to ask about how they ran security or how many other scientists were at the facility she merely smiled and led them on.

They weren't all that hungry anyways, being more interested in getting right down to work. They had minimal experience with the materials that the Vrakians had mentioned in the letter, but they were the best from the complex. The progress they had made with this type of weaponry was still in its infancy but DYBBUK Complex had pushed hard for progress and what they came up with vastly surpased anything else in Jiggady. Their only problem was that DYBBUK was underfunded and progress was slow, hence their desire to get to work here. Dr. Maxwell turned his attention back to the walrus hosts and smiled, he glanced down at the odd ring on his finger and tucked his hand back under the long sleaves of his coat.

"Well, we thank you for the opportunity to work here. We are very interested in getting right down to work."

"Yes, we are most exited to work with your researchers and pool our talents."

"The materials you mentioned we are most interested in learning more about. We have made only minimal headway in our own facilities."

"Yes, we deffinetly want to know more about the weaponry you have assertained here."

The Max's continued on in this manner, talking in short sentances and picking up where each one left off.

ooc: DYBBUK is a secret organization, not known publicly.

Thanks Vrak

OOC: No problem Jiggady.

IC:

The walrus noted the curious behaviour of the Jiggadians but managed to brush it aside. After all, talent is what mattered. And talent is what Vrak needed for this particular endeavour, despite any oddities.

"Ah, well. I favour the clams myself."

He relaxed himself a little and then said,

"Just to give you a hint here good sirs, we've managed to recover some items from the Dozle war but are at a loss how to make the stuff work. Heck, quite a bit of it has been left undisturbed for now while some more is still being searched for bombs and whatnot. That Dozle proved to be very sneaky, so we are trying to minimize any risks the best we can."

"... therefore decreasing our overall operating costs."

"Good," the Lord President said at last. "Andrew, I've heard from Miss Timothy, about this Dogle war materiel the Vrakians have-"

"Dozle, sir."

"-Dozle, then. What are your thoughts on the matter?"

Andrew Twilinger, 64, felt stunned. The President was asking him his opinion on matters of state.

He realized he shouldn't be so surprised. Compared to his predecessor, the current President was rather open and communicative with his cabinet. Andrew, however, was not among them, a mere military budget analyst. One of thousands. Hundreds of thousands, perhaps.

He thought his answer out carefully before giving it, keenly aware of the President's inquiring, commanding gaze. His first instinct, to say "Did you REALLY mean me? I don't know anything about it," was brushed aside. Clearly he meant him. There was no one else in the room, apart from the agent standing near the door.

"I've not been entirely informed of the situation, Lord President, but from what I've heard, it sounds like we should help them out," he said at last.

"Very well then," said Heinrid Abadas. "Any ideas who to send?"

Shock followed, but was again brushed aside. One didn't sit around looking dazed and confused when the President was asking you a question. "Well, perhaps some of the materials tech and mildesign advisors from CCCTG. Definitely from the Glom, sending one of the megacorps in with a team might send the wrong message..."

His voice trailed off.

"I agree. Good thinking, Andrew."

"Thank you, sir."

A beat. "So, when do you go?"

"M-me?" he couldn't help the stammer. "I'm not qualified in these fields, the only xenotech I've seen is in vids..."

The President waved his hands. "Yes, you. I know you don't know much about the guns and ammo specifically, as it were, but if the Vrakians are to make use of this technology for military purposes, you can assist in their research budgetary forecasting."

Not able to protest this line of reasoning-- although he had his suspicions about it being the Vrakian military budget that he would end up doing-- he asked, "What would be a good time?"

Abadas lifted his palm up questioningly, a faint smile on his face. "Up to you. Can you get me a specific list of people you recommend on your team by Thursday?"

My team? he thought. Quick, this had to change. He was no leader of foreign expeditionaries! He was just an old man. A widower, to boot. Working for the government. For the President.

Whose eyes bored holes into his skull. Gently.

"Yes, sir," he said, and was about to recommend some leader-types he knew among the ITDO-CCCTG, his brain searching frantically--

"Good. You're in charge of this one, but it reflects on me and this government, so don't let me down."

His eyes began to widen. The President smiled. "I'm only half-kidding," he said, half-apologetically. "Of course, this will mean an increase in your salary."

Hmmm...

---

A week later, he was on an aerospaceplane to Vrak, along with Dr Albrecht Lehrer, an ITDO research coordinator; Drs Chang and Mendoza, specializing in sub-molecular materials tech and high energy weapons research (respectively); Tactical Core Commander Garfield, an ITDO military simulations and sciences; and almost a dozen others, all hand-picked by Andrew Twilinger.

At least, as far as he knew...

The Santa Barbarans were escorted into their waiting armoured limousines and, after a convoluted series of paths and methods of transportation (of which one might say to throw off anyone who might try to follow them) arrived at their destination. The same receptionist greeted them and let them to the conference room. There, she introduced all present in that same luxurious voice and promptly went back to her desk.

“Ah, greetings Mr. Andrew Twilinger. I think we can get started soon. Any late arrivals will be brought up to speed. I’m the Head Researcher of this facility and…” a look around, “I suppose we can begin.”

The huge walrus ambled over to the buffet table and poured himself a scotch while the other two seated themselves near the front of the table. It was rectangular in shape and appeared to be made out of stone. The surface was highly polished and reflected the overhead lights. The chairs, however, were quite comfy and large enough to accommodate a giant.

Presently, the Head Researcher came back with his second scotch and rumbled,

“Well, I’ll tell you all what we are doing here. Most likely, our fellow Klatchians might have a better idea of what this is all about.”

A nod to the men from Jiggady. A press of a button and behind him, two panels slide open, revealing a screen. It flashed on and began to display images appropriate to imminent presentation.

“Basically, the FKC was attacked by the mad AI ‘god’ that called himself Dozle. With great effort, the FKC, along with allied help, was able to defeat this menace, but at a great price. However, as the old saying goes, there is a silver lining in every cloud.

“We were able to salvage some workable items from the war booty. However, most of the items are far beyond our technical knowledge. This is where you folks come in. Basically, we need your help to make this stuff work. I’ll show you specifically what we were able to salvage, but first, you might be wondering – what can I get out of this? Which is, of course, a reasonable request.

“I should add that we only approached our closest friends, that is, those within the FKC itself and the Order of the Seraphim. People we can absolutely trust, since this matter is highly sensitive.

“We are prepared to offer lucrative contracts and share of royalties for any new industries that are created from the result of this endeavor. Not to mention the free exchange of knowledge among those directly related to the project. I’ll let the legal staff worry about the finer points since there are free trade agreements among FKC nations and also within the Order. As well, we are prepared to compensate your time handsomely and expedite any immigration or legal issues that may arise. Make no mistake gentlemen, this project will likely take years. Our long term goals would be to create a working prototype of each major item that we found and ultimately, be able to mass produce them.

“Due to the secretive nature of this project, I also must caution you. While we are making final arrangements with your respective governments, it should be obvious that this project requires absolute secrecy and discretion on your part, with all that it implies. The same rules that I’m laying out for you also apply to me.

“Are there any questions so far?”

Dr. Maxwell leaned casually back in the chair as his hosts rambled on, next to him Dr. Max did the same though his attention was focused to the rest of their research group. The three research assistants, who were full fledged scientists in their own right, mumbled amongst themselves; they each had a plate of food from the buffet. Dr. Max looked at the fish and felt a chill up his body looking at the slimy scaley bodies, whose heads looked back up to him; lifeless eyes peering into his soul finding out who he was. He quickly turned back around and put a hand to his mouth to keep from vomiting.

The arrival of the new people into the room had offered the Max's a new curiosity while the walrus continued on with formalities. The small army of researchers crowded into the room, and the Max's stared openly at them. Their eyes relentlessly honed into what looked like the senior staff, they studied their faces, their actions, and generated a quick analysis of their new collegues.

The Max's quickly turned their attention back to the speaking walrus, it sounded like he was finally getting onto the important stuff. Dr. Maxwell shot a knowing glance to his companion Finally Dr. Max. Dr. Max looked back to him Yes finally Dr. Maxwell.

They listened to the oratory, sitting upright in their seats with full attention to the speaker. Their faces finally showed emotion for the first time, as they nodded when it was appropriate, and made interesting faces when it was appropriate though they hardly moved through the speech. Each of them smiled inwardly as their host discussed the project and when he was done they were ready to get right to work.

"Ahem, yes we do have some minor details."

"Yes we do. We are sure that whatever contracts you offer us will be acceptable. We are not worried about the money as much as we are hoping to bring some of this knowledge back to Jiggady."

"We want to make it finaly work in our own research labs."

The Max's smiled warmly, looking open to their hosts.

"There is the issue of government relations however."

"Yes there is that issue."

"As you probably know, Jiggady isnt a very militaristic nation."

"As could be seen by its non-involvement in the Dozle war."

"Yes, as could be seen by that. There are those in the government and the military that have pacifist feelings, and would condem any such research that we are going into."

"That is why we have been sent here by a seperate branch of the government, created for reasons such as this. Our higherups want to make sure that Jiggady does not fall behind the times, and god forbid in the event we are ever in war, we have the ability to properly defend ourselves."

"Yes, we only ask that ou take care in going through the channels back to Jiggady. We can promise you the utmost in secrecy, but need this from you to maintain this secrecy."

The Max's stopped their back and forth oratory and looked about the room to the others, and again smiled warmly.

Tagged ... bet that surprised you. ;)

The message was breif, and formal. As one would expect from the Var.

We will attend this meeting, we have questions about what you are attempting with your research into the demented one's weapons.
-The Research Council of the Lords

A few hours later the dark shape of what was described as a 100 ton bettle entered the Naf border check and then continued through. It was noted by the guards that the object didn't actually touch the ground.

The message was breif, and formal. As one would expect from the Var.

We will attend this meeting, we have questions about what you are attempting with your research into the demented one's weapons.
-The Research Council of the Lords

A few hours later the dark shape of what was described as a 100 ton bettle entered the Naf border check and then continued through. It was noted by the guards that the object didn't actually touch the ground.

OOC:

Indeed Battlecrabs, it did surprise me. Jump in if you wish. :)

IC:

As usual, communication with LOW seemed to fill the Diplomatic Corps with a sense of apprehension, although considerably lessoned after they fought together against Dozle.

**********
Encryption - MAX - FKC route - LOW; research council - route complete
**********
To: The Research Council of the Lords
From: Vrak Diplomatic Corps
Subject: A matter of importance

We apologize for not offerring further information through these channels since they could always be compromised - however remote that possibility may be. We look forward to your arrival.

Another walrus replied,

“Please let me introduce myself. I am Intelligence sub-director. Thank you for letting us know about your government’s stance, Dr. Max and Dr. Maxwell. You can be assured that we will be very discrete and can be trusted with secrets.”

Of course, the walrus didn’t mention his name (Gnash Turyuol) and that he has served extremely well under the Intelligence Director, having first passed his major test with the nearly-forgotten World Court.

"That is most excellent to hear."

"Yes indeed most excellent."

"We eagerly look forward to seeing the facilities in which we will be working."

"Yes, we would like to familiarize ourselves with what we will be working with here."

"I am sure that our collegues feel the same way. Though I imagined that there would be more researchers here from other countries."

"Yes we are most happy to have the pleasure of working with the Santa Barbarans on this project."

Both of the Max's were already in white labcoats, each one reached into the left breast pocket and pulled out a red pen and started clicking it in their fingers in synch. Dr. Maxwell eyed the new walrus speaker with great interest, wondering what he was doing here. He was obviously important enough to be present at the meeting. A government lacky keeping an eye over their precedings no doubt, no one to worry about. He itched his leg, the high black socks had created a rash on his thigh earlier that week and it was most annoying. Next to him Dr. Max did the same, having had the same problem for about the same amount of time.

"Ah yes, before I forget. We are expecting a package to be comming in soon. We were unable to get it aboard our flight here and had to send it on another."

"Yes terrible time at the airlines."

"It contains much of the equipment we brought from our own labs, and will be necessary for our work. If you could just see that it was delivered here."

"Yes, if you could make sure it arrived here after landing."

"Of course," replied the Sub Director to the oddly mannered doctors. He immediately pressed a button and urgently barked a few words in Vrakian. He then smoothly said, "Please let me know of any arrangement that need to be made in regards to specialized equipment you may need."

[OOC: That is, we can say that anything you have will encounter no difficulty in getting here.]

Meanwhile, the Head Researcher shuffled some papers and looked again at the room. If he was human, he would closely resemble a grandfatherly absent-minded professor.

"Ummm," he said, clearing his throat,"In a moment, I'd like to be able to show you exactly what we've been able to recover. Some of the items are quite large, and will necessitate a tour to a nearby hanger. However..."

A brief flipper wave. A door opened near the walruses and two men pushing a wheeled cart entered. With some difficulty, one of the men picked up an item from the cart and set it gently on the stone table. It appeared to resemble an arm from the robot - although somewhat skeletal in appearance. Grafted to the arm itself was some type of menacing looking gun. Nearer the wrist section, three curved blades were extended. Some of the other blades appeared to be broken off while traces of heavy caliber rounds could be discerned.

The other man also set down a damaged arm on the table, similar to the first one yet the gun looked different.

"These were from the SOATs, which were the primary infantry robot used by Dozle. We found that concentrated heavy machine gun fire was able to shred these...things. Yet, they did prove to be highly durable and inflicted a fair bit of damage."

Behind the walruses, a collage of images (gathered from intelligence reports) showed the capabilities of the SOATs.


OOC: Short post. Sorry. Here's an image of a SOAT.

http://www.hbrobotics.org/images/AMEE.jpg

The black object made it's way towards the Vrakian Facility with little in the way of following any roads or anything else. It skimmed along on a strait course and found itself finally at the gate.

As the black object neared the facility, perimeter alarms sounded but then were quickly muted. Soldiers rushed to man their heavy machine gun emplacements while two T-90 tanks approached the gate from the opposite side. They were formed in such a way that the gate could be rolled aside and their main cannons brought to bear without hitting eachother - or to let a path through. An intel officer on duty quicky recognized the LOW vehicle and then grabbed the phone, informing the Sub director. A brief conversation and then the gate opened, allowing the LOW vehicle in.


OOC: Possible for our intel folks to know about your type of craft, LOW? I can always edit.

"Excellent news, we thank you for this."

"Yes, thank you very much for this accomodation."

"It is a rather large sized crate that we couldnt get through customes in time to arrive here. The crate mostly contains our own equipment that we have developed for working on these projects, some prototypes that we have developed, and our other assistant."

The Max's exchange a glance, they had forgotten up to that point that their superior had sent Andrew along with them. Andrew would be most helpfull in the research process. Dr. Maxwell hoped that what they brought would work with what the Vrakians had recovered, it would be a great dissapointment if what they were working on back at the DYBBUK Complex, or working with for that matter, wasnt even on par with this equipment.

I have already invested the past few years of my scientific career into these projects. The head of DYBBUK was always looking for new projects to come across his desk, and mine had been most appealing to him. The idea of this type of weaponry had nearly made the Chief Scientist drool with thoughts of power. The nuclear projects had already panned out well beyond their expectations, but no other promising project had come up untill this one. I just hope this is a success, I will surely be pushed up the ladder, along with Max, if it is.

The Chief Scientist was counting on them to make this project a success, which was why they were here above anyone else that was working on the project. If they could bring back working plans for SOAT technology, than the quest of DYBBUK would become a reality; and Dr. Maxamilian would be most pleased.

The walrus' continued on with the specifications of the project, and finally the moment the Max's were waiting for presented itself. A cart was pushed into the room and several men lifted the contents onto the table. Dr. Maxwell and Dr. Max wasted no time in jumping from their seats to stand over the arm and get a brief annalysis of it. Their faces lit up like a child on christmas as they talked in hurried voices, their hands pointing out each little thing. The circled the table, barely allowing anyone else access as they made quick mental notes on the SOAT technology.

Yes we did this right! Oh what is this? Wow, we didnt think of that!

Dr. Maxwell smiled as he steped back to watch the screen and let the others get a glance, This would surely be a great investment

bump...this has certianly been slow going

OOC: Sorry for the long post everyone, but this is about what I realistically figure Vrak could salvage from the Dozle war, after checking over the threads again. Mind you, I still have to check my telegrams with Taka since he also gave some information there as well. Taka, please be sure if this list sounds about right and not too wanky. As well, I also managed to find the stats on the “flying frigates” that basically mauled our navy, since I got them confused with the gunships. However, I also cannot find any stats on your dropships and earth shaker rockets. I also may have overlooked something in the stats for certain items when going over the related OOC and IC threads.

http://www.nationstates.net/forum/viewtopic.php?t=82246&highlight=

http://www.nationstates.net/forum/viewtopic.php?t=115980&highlight=

http://www.nationstates.net/forum/viewtopic.php?t=118836&highlight=

Keep in mind, everyone that most of these items are nearly beyond repair, and that few systems will actually be functioning (a nearly dead powerplant here, a weapon system there, I’ll let you all be creative with what actually is found, since you are the experts and our scientists may have missed something). In other words, you are kind of determining our possible tech level.

Basically, these are the items coming up in the tour. The large items (frigates and gunships – say maybe 2 or 3 each) will be housed temporarily in a field nearby with a shelter over them. I’m going to wank a little and say that they were airlifted in through a combination of LOW gravships and dirigibles (on loan from WA). The smaller items were trucked or railed in and they are stored in more permanent quansit style huts (like the kind farmers use to store their tractors and whatnot). Of course, there will be far more of the smaller items recovered than the larger ones. Finally, this is not the only site where war booty is stored, but it is the main one.

So, without further adieu, here are the stats (minus the prices):


Takian Airforce

Frigate

The mainstay of any fighting force, the small but deadly Frigates, able to throw up a cloud of AA fire to screen approaching smaller craft, and agile enough to slip under capital ships and over whelm them with fire, the frigate is perhaps the most versatile of the Takian fleet, playing as everything from hospital ships, to merchant ships, to escorts, to raiders, and so on and so forth.
Armament: (3) AA missile pods (10) AA turret pods (2) weapons batteries, port (2) weapons batteries, Starboard
Armor: one layer of deflector shields, one back up generator, 1 m of titanium armor, 1 m titanium polymer blend, 30 cm tungsten ceramite, HEPD field
Fold drives: 1
Length: 500 meters
Crew: 50 minimum, 70 minimum combat crew, 100 max
Boarding Actions: 3 Kamakazi class boarding vessels, 30 marines both for boarding and repelling boarders.
Powered by: 3 plasma generators

Gunship

The largest ship in the Takian Fleet unable to sustain long space flights, its speed and armor are more than enough to protect it long enough to release its ordinance, and its fold drivers allow it to pull out of a dangerous position quickly. They come in two varieties, the anti-capitalship and the anti-escort, the first loaded with torpedoes, the second with heavy balistic weaponry.
Armament: (4) AA gun turrets, (1) AA missile battery, (1) Appocrapha class streamer cannon (5) torpedoes (optional, 2 railguns and 2 additional torpedoes, or 8 additional torpedoes)
Armor: single layer deflective shield, 30 cm reinforced titanium, 25mm tungsten ceramite, HEPD field
Fold drivers: 1
Crew: 2 skeleton crew, 15 maximum (Pilot, navigation, gunner, ordinance officer, engineer, 1 heavy boarding mecha, 3 light boarding mecha, 7 marines)
Power: 1 Matter/anti-matter battery, 1,000 hour combat operation

Bomber

The bomber has evolved much from its atmospheric predecessor, trading the old massive form for a smaller, faster, sleeker frame. Holding two pods massive enough to carry even the all powerful Fusion Torpedoes, even a single bomber can devastate an entire city.
Armament: (2) AA missile pods, (6) torpedoes
Armor: 5.0 cm reinforced titanium, 12mm tungsten ceramite, HEPD field
Crew: 3 (pilot, gunner, ordinance officer/navigation)
Power: 3 Plasma batteries, 150 hour combat running time each

Fighter

With the evolution of the Bomber, the fighter was forced to match pace with it, and pack larger weapons, meaning a slightly weaker overall frame on the old, winged designs, thus the creation of the flying wing, able to carry heavy ordinance, projectiles and laser weapons, keeping pace with even the fastest of bombers. While generally too weak to cause much harm against capital ships, a full squadron of them can cause problems for a lone escort, making fighters commonplace among pirates.
Armament: (2) laser cannons, (1) railgun, (5) hard points
Armor: 2.5 cm reinforced titanium, 10mm tungsten ceramite, HEPD field
Crew: 1
Power: 1 Plasma Battery, 150 hour combat operation

Interceptor

With the evolution of the fighter bomber, ships were needed to surpass them, an ultimate fighter, thus the creation of the Longbow and Crossbow class interceptors.
Armament: (2) light laser cannons, (3) hardpoints
Armor: 7.5 cm reinforced titanium/polymer blend, 5 mm tungsten ceramite, HEPD field
Crew: 1
Power: 1 plasma battery, 150 hour combat operation


Ground Forces

Apocalypse class Heavy Battle Tank

Armor: (from inside to outside)
3 inches titanium/polymer blend
2 inch neotitanium
1 inch tungsten ceramite

Armament: Main turret
x2 160mm smoothbore cannons, co-axial Plasma Flamer or .50 machine gun
Sides
x2 rocket pods, each with 5 200mm Earthshaker Rockets.
Speed:
On road: 40 MPH
Off road: 25 MPH
Crew: 5

Squallem class Main Battle Tank

Armor: from inside to outside
1 inch titanium/polymer blend
.5 inch neo-titanium
.5 inch Tungsten ceramite
Armament:
Main turret: 120mm smoothbore cannon, coaxial .50 caliber machinegun or plasma flamer
Sides: x1 missile pod, with 5 Stinger AA missiles
Speed:
On road: 65 MPH
Off road: 45 MPH
Crew: 3

Raider Class Light Tank/Heavy Recon

Armor: from inside to outside
3/4 inch titanium polymer blend
1/2 inch neotitanium
1/4 inch tungstun ceramite
Armament:
x2 80 mm cannons (forward facing)
x2 .45 machine gun (swivels on top of vehicle)
x1 missile pod, with 5 stinger AA missiles
Speed:
On road: 100 mph
Off road: 60 mph
Crew: 2 (driver/88mm gunner, navagator/20mm machine gunner, missiles can be fired by either as computer picks locations)

Landraider APC

Armor: from inside to outside
1/2 inch titanium polymer blend
1/4 inch neotitanium
1/4 inch tungstun ceramite
Armament:
x1 .50 caliber machine gun
Speed:
On road: 75 mph
Off road: 60 mph
Crew: 5 (driver, gunner, 3 passengers)

Tornado FAV

Armor:
1/2 inch titanium polymer blend
Armament: (interchangeable, both included for price)
x1 .50 caliber machine gun
or
x1 HEAT Anti-Armor missile launcher
Speed:
On road: 120 mph
Off road: 75 mph
Crew: 3 (driver, gunner, passenger)

SOAT

The SOAT-bot, or Special Operation, All Terrain Robot, is produced by Paladin Arms, a joint Resi Corp/Takian Arms company project. Only 200,000 of the units were created, because at nearly three million bullets *six million USD* a unit, they were deamed too expencive. . . however Adam obtained the plans, and with his control over a mechanized legion of worker drones, started mass producing them for his army. Nearly half a billion of the SOATs escaped from the palace as Adam, in the body of the Prince Dozle, made his exit.

Statistics

Weaponry
2 clawblades on the arms
1 automatic coilgun for engaging soft targets
1 Lascannon for engaging armored targets

Armor

Neotitanium plates over vital areas, with a titanium polymer skeleton makes the bots all but impervious to small arms fire, though the eye slot, shoulders, and under arm areas are unarmored to allow mobility, it would take a sniper with a high caliber weapon to hope to deal enough damage to put a bot down with a single shot. The best course of action is to drown the bot in a stream of constant fire, literally ripping it into pieces, because short of completely dismantling the bot, they will continue single mindedly on their mission.


Takian Infantry Weapons

Automatic Coil Gun (recovered from SOATs)
Using a coilgun to deliver metal spikes at super sonic speeds, the auto coilgun is known for its distinct roar as the rounds create a sonic boom shortly after leaving the barrel. As powerful as it is noisy, its just as effective as a psychological warefare weapon as it is as a killing weapon. Firing method: automatic
Magazine size: 6000 rounds
rate of fire: 1200 RPM
Effective range: 500 m

Las Cannon (recovered from SOATs)
The ultimate laser weapon on the battlefield, it consumes an entire batterie for a single shot and can put out 900 megawatts of power in a single, 1 second burst. It requires 15 seconds of cool down after each shot, though that is a moot point considering it takes about 20 second to reload the weapon.
Firing method: Single shot
Magazine size: 1 rounds
rate of fire: 4 RPM
Effective range: 5000 m

bump...this has certianly been slow going

OOC: A little, yes. :)

To speed things up, we could say that everyone has taken a look at the stuff and is about to go to work? I don't want to rob anyone of what they want to write here. Basically, after the arm the Head Researcher was about to take everyone on a little tour...

IC:

The Vrakians noted the keen interest of the Jiggadians. They nodded imperceptibly to one another and then the Sub director cleared his throat.

"Ah, err. If those who have extensive military training would like to follow me? I would like to show you something. Head Researcher?"

"Of course, Sub director. I was just about to show the rest of our recovered items after everyone took a good look at our...what is the word...teaser? Yes. That's it."

OOC:

Sorry! More stats on armour and HEPD fields. Couldn't find anything yet on ship-borne railguns.

HEPD Fields

Hutchison Effect Point Deflector Fields, or HEPD Fields work by projecting a screen of energy at a single point of space, redirecting inertial energy and sending solid object flying away from the ship. Used primarily to keep the ship from being damaged while moving through space debris fields and meteor belts, it has been found effective to stop incoming projectile weapons. It is too slow to stop energy weapons.

Deflector Shields

More of an absorbtion shield, it takes incoming energy shots and chanels them into generators which vent it into the main generators, charging batteries, and powering non-vital combat systems. Under intence fire it can overload, thus larger ships generaly have both redundant absorbtion shields as well as multiple generators.

Titanium Polymer Armor

A titanium armor with a polymer blended through it that allows it to flex and return to normal shape for absorbing heavy impacts, when hit, impact area goes ridgid while area around it flexes inward, after the energy has been dispurced, it goes back to its true shape within 45 seconds.

Tungsten Cermatite Armor

Heat deflection armor, designed to survive high heat conditions without melting, it distrubuted the heat over the entire surface rapidly, providing excelent defence against laser and plasma based weapons.

bump.... will post tomorrow, I was waiting for someone else to post again before I did.

OOC: Rubs up the paddles…clear!

IC:

The Sub director, accompanied by the third walrus from the previous room, led the military experts down a short hallway and into yet another conference room. Then he cleared his throat and bobbed his head to the other walrus.

“May I introduce to you General Youlj Sansaeya, hero of the Dozle war.”
“You are too kind Sub director,” replied the general. He tilted his head to the experts and said, “I apologize for the deception in not introducing myself earlier. We just can’t take any chances, even here.”

A pause. A press of a button and a screen appeared with various computer graphics, charts, and video footage to enhance the presentation.

“What I’m about to tell you is highly classified material. Basically, our encounter and subsequent war with Dozle forced us to rethink our tactics – such as countering orbital insertions - and also reliance upon new technologies. But first, let me tell you what we found out about the SOATs and Dozle in general. Interestingly, some unconfirmed reports say that Dozle was being manipulated by ‘Adam’ a highly sophisticated AI. We still don’t know exactly the relationship between the two, if any.

The SOATs themselves proved to be especially worrisome. They could man hovercraft, they could operate underwater and slice through our submarine hulls. They could spew out flak towards low-flying aircraft, but have to anchor themselves before they do. They even appeared to learn. They also came in at least two models: a regular infantry type and a steath infiltrator version. Most deadly the second one.

We think that the SOATs acted as eyes and ears for Dozle. A Dukratian general reported that a voice identifying it as such. I believe it said “How do you kill a god?”

As well, the SOATs were vunerable to sustained heavy machine gun fire and also EMP weaponry.

The tanks, especially the Apocalypse took a lot of pepper. Our heaviest weapons, the Titan guns, even had some difficulty due to aiming concerns. I should mention here that the titans are basically extremely long range artillery best designed for stationary targets or things like ships.

The flying frigates we believe are primarily space ships but proved to be quite able in offering ground suppression and attacking heavy targets. Our navy suffered greatly because of those things. But again, sustained fire from the Soyuz III 17 inch guns could hurt it and eventually bring it down.

It was a war of attrition and one that we nearly lost. So, we’re telling you this because we want to devise new ways to counteract this. We really don’t know if this Adam/Dozle actually was killed off. We are preparing for the worst.”

A sign and then the general reached for a whiskey.

====

Meanwhile, the Head Researcher, after everyone took a good look at the arm, led them down a short hallway. Behind them, the arm was quietly loaded back onto the trolley and wheeled away.

The blast door opened into a large factory floor - about the size of a football stadium. Huge overhead cranes could be seen carrying large bulker containers while on the floor itself various piece of military equipment lay in neat marked out squares. Each square had a team of scientists with all manner of equipment conducting tests. Elsewhere, some pieces were being hauled away into other laboratories. While it appeared to be various forms of junk within each square the overall appearance was of efficiency and order.

TacCorCom Garfield took it all in. The first thing he noticed was the meter-thick titanium armoring of the frigate, reminiscent of early Santa Barbaran design. Titanium was costly.

"Garfield, Tactical Core Commander," he declared. "Sub Director, I am curious, did the air frigates ever outnumber your ready naval forces at any point?" He didn't imagine they could have.

"Tactical Core Commander," said the Sub director, "not only did they outnumber our forces but almost the combined might of 3-4 other Klatchian nations. Dozle was able to draw upon an incredible manufacturing base and, quite frankly, we are astonished that he was able to build so much in secret without anyone noticing. This is one of the reasons why we are cautious. Was Dozle being aided by other nations that we didn't find out about? Did he somehow take over other nations and have them build for him without them knowing the true purpose? Very hard to imagine and I'm afraid the whole puzzle hasn't been solved."

Dr. Maxwell and Dr. Max had kept silent during the tour and the discussions by the general. It was one of the first times that the two of them had been silenced this long in the present company. But the two of them were to busy staring at the presentation and marveling at the production specs and clips of this SOAT technology. Their seemingly endless conversations, spoken one line at a time, were reduced to frantic hushed whispers as they watched.

"This general is obviously someone we need to talk to more"

"Yes, he saw this firsthand it seems. We must get his personal descriptions of the encounters."

"It will greatly help us realize the extent of this technology."

"Deffienetly, only now do we realize how far behind our labs are in this field."

"Yes, once we get working and unlock the secrets of this technology we will be able to further the cause of the Vrakians and our own."

"Yes, yes."

The Max's barely heard, or ignored the Generals comment on the Adam AI. To wraped up were they in his description of the tanks and the images, pointing out things they knew they could easily reproduce and things that were revolutionary to them. They didnt see it as their problem if it was gone or merely waiting...

The secure call came in, and the Head Researcher and General Sansaeya excused themselves for the moment.

[code:1:13f9c8e24d]
Tersanctus attack upon FKC imminent. Initiated Lockdown procedure Omega. Authorization: VMHC - Tango Victor Zulu 90913 sequence 7.
[/code:1:13f9c8e24d]

The general shook his head. The Head Research mumbled something and said, "Well, I guess I'd better tell our guest that they won't be going anywhere for the moment due to safety concerns."

A curse.

"This could set everything back if they don't feel safe here."

OOC:
Errr...a bit late...can I get a summary of what exactly is needed...theres too many long posts O_O
Yeah...Ill just *if theres any need* say my guy came, ate some bad oysters and went to his room for a while.

OOC:
Errr...a bit late...can I get a summary of what exactly is needed...theres too many long posts O_O
Yeah...Ill just *if theres any need* say my guy came, ate some bad oysters and went to his room for a while.


OOC: Sure. Basically, after the Dozle war (a mad AI tried to take over the world, starting with the Klatch but failed) Vrak, and quite possibly other FKC states, managed to recover Dozle tech. It is beyond our capabiities to understand so we brought in experts. Basically, this thread is to ICly establish the fact that Vrak is trying to understand the technology and will eventually incorporate it.

Or, as another put it, for the greater glory of wank tech! :)

You can say that you sent some scientists who are diligently working on the stuff.

OOC:
Well, being futuretech I suppose my guys would mostly be on as advisors for when you get stuck O_O

OOC:
Well, being futuretech I suppose my guys would mostly be on as advisors for when you get stuck O_O

OOC: Basically, yes. I'll use this thread to post Vrak's latest technological accomplishments.

Bastion 1 Research Center

-How is the research coming?
-Very well, Intelligence Director. With the help of the outside experts, we should have several working prototypes ready within the year. Of course, to mass manufacture such items are yet beyond our capabilities. After all, these prototypes would be stripping materials and what not from the salvageable items. To truly make it cost effective, whole new industries would have to be created, besides…
-Let me worry about that end of things. What have you got ready?
-Well, we should have a working plasma generator prototype to start soon. I would advice that such generators be hooked up to power non-critical functions and not be used as backups since we don’t know about their reliability, among other issues. The plasma batteries are also being worked on. A working railgun should also come to fruition, although we are having some scaling problems to make them man-sized. A naval version would not be out of the question though. A laser cannon should also be possible, although we are not sure yet where we can apply them.
-Excellent. Anything else?
-Well, the plasma weaponry recovered from the SOATs can have some industrial applications, such as in steel fabrication and cutting. We aren’t so sure about it being a weapon per say. The railguns and lasers would be better suited for that.
-How about those Earthshaker rockets that I’ve heard about?
-It is very difficult to recover any kind of enemy munitions since, well, they used them up firing at us. We also didn’t recover any sort of ammo dump that was used by the enemy when they landed in Remmonlands. So, designing ammunition to fit the existing designs might be hard. It would be better to use some of the frames mounted with more ‘modern’ armaments. As an example, we will be able to have an Apocalypse class type of battle tank frame using our existing armaments. Sort of a hybrid until other developments pan out.
-I see.
-We should also have a working SOAT prototype ready within the year as well. Again, the computational power along with miniaturization of key components has to be factored in. Here, another example of ‘modern’ weaponry being used on a…ah…more advanced type of frame. That is, the coil gun is still being developed but I see no reason why we can’t mount a medium or even heavy machine gun on these…robots.
-Very well. I’m glad to hear of the progress. There are some reorganizational issues in the works so that means you will most likely get a boost in funding and manpower.
-That is gratifying to hear.

Bastion 1 Research Center

-Good morning Intelligence Director.
-Good morning, Head Researcher. I must say that I’m very impressed with your latest report.
-Thank you. We expect the naval version of the railgun to be ready soon. Initial tests out in the Nef went very well.
-Indeed. And how about the other items?
-Well, a SOAT prototype is still a ways off. That is, we do have a preliminary model now, but it certainly cannot perform to military grade specifications. We are also having some difficulty in the fashioning of the new tank frames. That is, we can’t make the alloys perfectly. Still, a prototype did do well on its initial trials.
-How about those plasma generators?
-Well, they are the key. So far, we managed to actually recover one power plant from one of the frigates. We hooked it up and it seems to run, but it does have a high amount of downtime.
-Well, keep at it.

**********
SECRET – Intelligence Director ONLY
**********

Research has been rewarding with steady progress. We should be ready to mount a rail gun aboard on of the Soyuz III battleship platforms. Power issues have now been addressed since we now have a fully-functional plasma generator. As you may remember, earlier models and ones that have been recovered from the Dozle ships have been hooked up to non-essential functions within the country-wide power grid – within certain select communities. Basically, we were testing for reliability issues. Our regular power systems cut in when the plasma generators failed - but there were some blackouts.

As well, we’ve been able to develop a stable “plasma” battery in that it has an extremely powerful and long-lasting charge. Scaling is still an issue but we think we can mount several on our submarines – enabling them to run much quieter. However, we can’t say for sure yet how long the batteries will last but we estimate that one of our Typhoons can be supplied with all of its power needs for at least half a year. These batteries should also be able to provide power for railgun systems independent of the ship's regular power plant.

Other work is proceeding normally. Early railgun tests in the North Sea and in the Nef is went quite well. Finally, a space-frame prototype (modeled after the Dozle frigate) should be ready for launch in the near future.

OOC: As always, constructive criticism is welcome.

The very long track was finally complete. Nothing like this was ever undertaken before, although smaller tracks leading into the North sea did launch models roughly 1/50, 1/25 and then about 1/10 the size of the prototype. Today, though, the actual size prototype would be launched. It would be interesting to see if it really did fly and not end up in the drink or explode in a spectacular fireball.

The High Researcher, along with some of the experts from Bastion three were on hand. The affair was kept low-key however so as not to attract too much attention. But if this test went well, then it promised to move the state up to the next level.

The crew aboard the gunship itself were nervous. Some of their friends did die in the earlier launches so they were understandably nervous. The haunting voice from the ground control filtered through their comm systems.

Proto1. This is ground control. Initialize final checks.
Roger, Ground control.

Ground contrl then began calling out various complicated sequences and numbers. All received a positive “check” from the crew. Somewhere in the back, a monotone voice was saying, “T-minus 60 seconds, T-minus 59, 58, 57…”

The powerful rails hummed. For a moment, some of the crew could actually feel that they were floating. The humming began to increase…

Whoooom! With a lurch, the gunship zoomed forward. The helmsman kept the course steady but felt elated inside. This was it! This was IT!

http://upl.silentwhisper.net/uplfolders/upload5/Vrakian_gunship_prototype2.BMP

OOC: Sorry folks for the crap pic. Been having some comp problems. I figure anyone who had a satellite passing overhead can get a glimpse.

Earlier…

Bastion One R&D center

-Head Researcher? You are going somewhere?

The walrus merely shrugged and replied.

-I have to go somewhere, yes. Is that report that I asked for finished?
-Yes sir. Right here.

With a flourish, the man gave the walrus a thick binder which was promptly stuffed into his steel briefcase.

-I’ll be back soon. Don’t let the place fall down while I’m gone.
-Yes sir!

OOC: And this is where he is going (post#3):

http://forums2.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?t=358168

While other countries were busy with designing the latest tank or ship, Vrak was quietly concentrating on building up the technologies needed to make for a more efficient logistical train. As well, the Vrakians have been very busy digesting the influx of former Santa Barbaran companies and the technologies they possessed. And not to mention the still confusing (but now less so) war booty. Not to mention the booty from the New Cynthian war. In fact, Vrak had enough raw technology to propel them rather quickly up the ladder but, as always, did not seem to be able to coordinate the potential that it had.

Machines that could build houses within a day. Primitive AIs that can man the concept battleships armed with very long range gun systems. An underwater torpedo network spanning the Walrus Sea and other key chokepoints in the Federation armed with the latest and fastest torpedoes. Advanced UAVs based on the Cyclops design and and a ultra-range concept fighter jet that can be in any hotspot in the Klatch within a few hours.

The SOAT-bots were now fully realized and soon, mass production could be implemented at specially-designated mega factories. The experimental man portable coil guns, the remote mortar systems and the gradual automation of the logistical train were slowly becoming a reality. Several different dropship designs were in the works, along with an ultra-heavy sea carrier specifically designed for the larger tank and artillery systems. Orbital defenses were slowly being brought up to par with other similarily placed nations.

For the average Vrakian, more computing power was being made available through the ever-shrinking hand held designs along with a more powerful state web and interconnected Greater Klatch Internet. The civilian applications were enormous, with new drugs being made available, a wider range of foodstuffs due in part to aggressive efforts in food technology. Homes were being built out of studier materials. Motor vehicles were becoming more fuel efficient along with an increase in TDP plants and other “green” technology. More efforts were placed on medical research, especially in total organ regeneration. Not to mention the gradual and quiet conversion of the state’s power grid to plasma based on the powerplants from Dozle.

Tentative explorative efforts at building underwater complexes were being realized, along with possible orbital stations. Colonization was creeping upwards on the agenda due to a bulging population. While the Mercury habitats may be lost, some believed that other areas ought to be considered.

Within the throne room itself, other changes were at hand…