Today marks my first day serving in my new role as the head of Starfleet. The Federation has invested an awesome responsibility in me, one I intend to live up to. It is a new century now, with the dawn of the year 2301 in the old system. We have peace with our old rivals, the Klingons, and a new era of peace, exploration, and expansion is underway.
Yet it will not be easy. Even without sworn foes, space is always as full of dangers as it is wonders. And it is ever full of wonders. Exploration is never to be taken lightly. But Starfleet's core mission is exploration, especially with the new peace. An organisation dedicated to seek out new life and new civilisations. I am eager for the task, and finding out what I can bring to Starfleet. Because of my heritage as a...
[X] ... Human, I am familiar with Earth and her awesome industrial power. We are a people who work selflessly to a common good.
[ ] ... Vulcan, I know that wisdom and rationality will be the key to leading Starfleet. Humans may be the heart of Starfleet, and the Andorians its muscle, but we Vulcans are its brain.
[ ] ... Andorian, I know that you must be prepared to fight, even when you hope not to. Your people's slender builds may not look intimidating, but there are none fiercer in battle.
To make matters worse, it looks like my predecessor's empire building ways mean their people still occupy most of the key posts of Starfleet. My ability to carry out my mission will be constrained until I can convince the Federation to let me replace these roles.
Thankfully, I was able to influence the person who would take over the Explorer's Corps, as the incumbent retired at the same time my predecessor left. As a result, my old friend has been promoted to Rear Admiral and put in command. It will be good to work once more with trusty...
[X] ... Patricia Chen, who is one of the most daring commanders I know, and one of the great escape artists.
(Female Human, 44, re-roll failed Hull checks, increasing chances of your explorers escaping destruction)
[ ] ... Salok, whose mind can pierce through to see what others miss.
(Male Vulcan, 135, re-roll failed Science checks, increasing chances of your explorers succeeding on science events]
[ ] ... Thel, who had saved you on more than one occasion with their ferocity in battle against Klingons and Romulans.
(Female Andorian, 48, may choose to re-roll Combat checks, second result stands]
Also, my own friends within Starfleet and I think we will have Starfleet Construction resolved in time for the next budgetary period, which will coincide with the completion of a set of ships. Getting R&D back into the fold should happen shortly after that. But I'll have to work for some of the other areas to consolidate my ability to run this place.
Once I get settled in, my first order of business will be picking the captains who will take on the new Five Year Missions of exploration. The Federation President told me personally that no fewer than three such missions are expected to be underway at all times. My predecessor was suspected of looking to militarise Starfleet, so this is now something that they are on watch for.
"Your watchwords will be exploration, science, and peace," they told me. A charge I will take seriously.
Computer, End log.
Welcome to Starfleet, Admiral
Welcome to 'To Boldly Go...', a quest about Starfleet Command. This will be a quest about exploration, random events, pulling your hair out at what your crazy captains are doing, and also a bit of making, naming, and researching new ships. There are some basic mechanics to observe. You start off as a newly minted full Admiral, appointed to command Starfleet, one of the most significant forces in the galaxy.
With the recent signing of the Khitomer Accord, the Federation wants to get back to the business of science and exploration, not phasers and photon torpedoes. Of course, as an Admiral you know that the Federation cannot survive by tricoder alone. Nonetheless, the Federation will track your actions for how militarised they are. As you acquire Militarisation Points, you will find the Federation clawing back your resources, forcing commanders into early retirement, or even replacing you entirely. These points cannot exceed the current Threat Level.
You have three types of ship: the big explorer cruisers, the light cruisers, and the escorts. At present, those are Excelsior-class, Constellation-class, and Miranda-class ships. The explorers are designed to operate on their own for long missions, perfectly suited to carrying out the famous Five Year Missions of discovery that your superiors prize. They have the best science packages, while also packing a punch. Of course, this makes them very expensive. Constellations and Mirandas, however, have limited science capacity, but are cost-effective combatants.
We'll go into ships and other mechanics in more detail in the next update.
(A/N: I'm going to be putting a lot of effort into spreading out the options and choices to avoid spam and keep updates shorter and sharper, and also help ease players in. Let's see how we go!)
- Provides: 50br, 25sr, 10pp, 5rp, 0.0 Officer, 2 Enlisted, 1.5 Tech
- Installations: High Comb Station [Starbase I], Intazzi Fleet Yards, Grand Hive of the Apiata@Apinae(1 x 2.5mt berth, 4 x 600kt berth), Extra Outposts in sector
Currently occupying a past Amarkian/Caitian space, up to the near edge of Indorian space
- Installations: Lapycorias Station/Starbase 9 [Starbase I], Orion Imperial Yard (Indorian shipyard in deep space)
Currently occupying a belt of space lying along the coreward edges of the Sol, Tellar, and Amarkian Sectors.
- Provides: -none-
- Installations: Vega Station/Starbase 8 [Starbase I], Green Hook Fleet Yards (Vega), Cedrun Agrun Yards (Klivvar Proxima)
Currently occupying a belt of space lying along the tailward edges of the Rigel and Sol Sectors.
- Provides: Ulen Gao VII, Mica III, An Arai V, Piara IV/V, Costaun
- Installations: Clover Outpost [Outpost I], Kappa Tau [Outpost I, Starbase I]
Federation Council Objectives: 200 Science by 2321 [Currently 124]
250 Defence by 2321 [Currently 137]
Accomplished
Starfleet Ambitions: Operate no fewer than 5 concurrent Five Year Missions by 2311. [Currently 5!]
Get the Ambassador prototype into production by 2321
Federation Council:
President - Jime Okaar, Pacifist Faction
Known Wars
None presently ongoing
NB: Severe tensions on Federation-Harmony Border
Arcadian-Commune hostilities on ceasefire
Federation Ongoing Projects
-
Federation Completed Projects
Request Start of Heavy Explorer project, receiving one-off boost of Research Points and go-ahead for some projects, 34pp
Request new Shipyard at Betazed, 18pp (8 turns, 2 1mt Berths) - ETC 2316.Q2
Request Mining Colony at Ulen Gao VII, 8pp (4 turns, gain +20 (25) br/year) - ETC 2315.Q2
Request Mining Colony at Peco Sigma, 8pp (4 turns, gain +10 (20) sr/year) - ETC 2315.Q2
Request Mining Colony at Castor IV-2, 8pp (4 turns, gain +20 (30) sr/year) - ETC 2315.Q2
Request Refit Program for Excelsior class [+1 C, S, L, P for 50br, 30sr, 1 Year (4 turns)], 6 turns, 18pp (NB: new unit cost for Excelsior will be 230/160) - ETC 2314.Q4
Deploy Improved Listening Posts to a Border Zone to gain a 25% chance of generating +1 Intel report for powers on that border. (Cardassian Border Zone), 20pp
Request new Starbase I [Betazed] - Starbase 12 - ETC 2315.Q1
Request Mining Colony at Corvo, 8pp (4 turns, gain +15 sr/year) - ETC 2313.Q2
Request Research Colony at Aga Carmide, 8pp (4 turns, gain +7rp/year) - ETC 2313.Q2
Request Research Colony at Ke'Luur, 8pp (6 turns, gain +7rp/year) - ETC 2312.Q4
Request Mining Colony at Tagh Pakot, 8pp (4 turns, gain +15 sr / year)
Request Mining Colony at Lapycorias XIII, 8pp (4 turns, gain +25 br/year)
Request new Starbase I [CBZ: Lapycorias] 20pp - ETC 2311.Q4
Request Refit Program for Miranda class [+1 S,H,L for 20br, 10sr, 1 Year (4 turns)], 6 turns, 35pp (NB: new unit cost for the Miranda will be 60/45) - ETC 2311.Q4
Establish Betazoid Counsellors in Starfleet vessels, starting with Explorer Corps, 8 turns, 40pp (Increased Retention nets +.25 Officer/Crew/Technician in Explorer Corps)
Request Mining Colony at Gamma Canidae V, 8pp (4 turns, gain +20 br / year) - ETC 2311.Q2
Request Mining Colony at Lapycorias VII, 8pp (4 turns, gain +25 br/year) - ETC 2311.Q2
Request new Starbase I [Sol-Sector: Vega] 20pp - ETC 2311.Q2
Request expansion of Ana Font Shipyard, 10pp (4 turns, gain 1 new 1m t berth), ETC 2310.Q2
Request new Starbase I RBZ 20pp, 6 turns, ETC 2309.Q4
Establish forward Outposts in the Cardassian Border Zones, 4 turns, 20pp (create Outpost Is at Beta Corridan, Aelin, and colony worlds Vintus and 15 Themis), ETC 2309.Q4
Request Refit Program for Constitution class [Constitution-class acquires stat block listed below], 8 turns, 35pp, ETC 2309.Q2
Request Mining Colony at 21 Themis VII, 8pp (4 turns, gain +15 (20) sr / year), ETC 2309.Q2
Request Mining Colony at Galus V, 8pp (4 turns, gain +15 br / year), ETC 2309.Q2
Request Research Colony at Meridia VI, 8pp (4 turns, gain 5(6) rp/ year), ETC 2309.Q2
Request expansion of Utopia Planitia, 40pp, (4 turns, gain 1 3mt, 1 1mt berth), ETC 2309.Q2
Request expansion of Lor'Vela Orbital Construction Facility, 10pp (4 turns, gain 1 new 1m t berth), ETC 2309.Q2
Request expansion of Outposts in the Amarkia Sector, 10pp (4 turns, +5 Defence in Amarkia, more colonies with outposts if state of emergency ensues), ETC 2308.Q2
Request Mining Colony at Beta Corridan, 8pp (4 turns, gain +10 br / year, +15 sr / year), ETC 2308.Q2
Utopia Planitia Shipyard [2 berth 3m t, 2 berth 1m t] - ETC 2308.Q2
Refit Program for Centaur class [+1 S,L,P,D for 15br, 15sr, 1 Year (4 turns)], 6 turns 45pp (NB: new unit cost for the Centaur will be 80/70), ETC 2307.Q4
Research Colony at Athos V with Romulans [+7 rp / year], ETC 2307.Q2
Mining Colony at Pygmalion 337 IV-3, 8pp (4 turns, gain +20 br / year), ETC 2307.Q2
Outposts in the Tellar Sector, 10pp (4 turns, +5 Defence in Tellar, more colonies with outposts if state of emergency ensues), ETC 2307.Q2
Lor'Vela Orbital Construction Facility [1 berth, 2.5m t] - ETC 2306.Q4
40 Eridani A Expansion [1 berth, 3m t] - ETC 2305.Q4
Tellar Prime Shipyard Construction [1 berth, 2.5m t] - ETC 2304.Q4
SR/RP Mining Colony, Biroth System [+20 SR/yr, +7 RP/yr] - ETC 2304.Q4
BR Mining Colony, Josephine III [+20 BR/yr] - ETC 2304.Q2
SR Mining Colony, Hophos III-2 [+25 SR/year] - ETC 2303.Q2
40 Eridani A Expansion [+1 3m t berth] - ETC 2303.Q2
Research Colony at Aelin System, [+7 rp / year], ETC 2306.Q2
Expanded assets for Starfleet Intelligence Command, ETC 2307.Q2
Chief of Staff, Starfleet Command, Vice Admiral Iorinn Gran (-)
Starfleet Departments
Chief of Starfleet Operations - Allows you to replace existing Sector Commanders with your own, who will have their own traits
Starfleet Explorer Corps - Allows you to pick which ships will get Explorer Corps crews, and which Captains will take them on Five Year Missions.
Starfleet Shipyard Operations - Allows you to decide on shipbuilding assignments
Starfleet Ship Design Bureau - Allows you to pick research projects
Starfleet Academy Commandant - Allows you to adjust recruitment policies
Starfleet Personnel, Rear Admiral - Allows you to pick Captain candidates from the Promotion Board
Starfleet Intelligence Rear Admiral - Allows you to pick a number of potential reports during the year
Starfleet Tactical Vice Admiral - Allows you to set fleet postures and doctrine, plus define the ship roles you require.
Captain Maeth th'Irnyar - 10% Discount off required Logistics level
Current Posting: Chief of Staff, Starfleet Medical Logistics Command, Starfleet Medical Command
Rule-Abiding: Medium
Aggression: High
Nerve: High
Diplomacy: Low
Politics: Low
Captain Rosalee McAdams
Current Posting: Captain, USS Courageous [Essentially unposted due to repairs taking past duration of FYM]
Rule-Abiding: Medium
Aggression: Medium
Nerve: High
Diplomacy: Medium
Politics: High
* Acting Director of Personnel would like to see Captain McAdams in a support or desk role before a new task force command role
Captain T'Mina
Current Posting: Captain, USS Cheron
Rule-Abiding: Medium
Aggression: Medium
Nerve: Medium
Diplomacy: High
Politics: Medium
*May be Promoted
Captain Iorin Grann
Current Posting: Captain, USS Yukikaze
Rule-Abiding: Medium
Aggression: Low
Nerve: High
Diplomacy: Medium
Politics: Medium
*May be Promoted
Captain Ferath zh'Kylarrth
Current Posting: Chief, Member World Coordination Office
Rule-Abiding: Low
Aggression: Medium
Nerve: Medium
Diplomacy: High
Politics: High
*May be Promoted
Captain Watanabe Shoichi
Current Posting: Explorer Corps Mission Control Director
Rule-Abiding: High
Aggression: Low
Nerve: High
Diplomacy: Medium
Politics: Medium
*May be Promoted
Commodore Jessica Rivers
Current Posting: Commander, TF 1, Gabriel BZ Fleet
Rule-Abiding: Medium
Aggression: Medium
Nerve: High
Diplomacy: Low
Politics: Medium
Commodore Revak
Current Posting: Commander, TF 2, Gabriel BZ Fleet
Rule-Abiding: Medium
Aggression: Low
Nerve: Medium
Diplomacy: Medium
Politics: High
Commodore Brufraogm Wev
Current Posting: Commander, Andor Sector
Rule-Abiding: High
Aggression: Medium
Nerve: Medium
Diplomacy: Low
Politics: High
Commodore Hurgok Sagek
Current Posting: Commander, Tellar Sector
Rule-Abiding: Medium
Aggression: High
Nerve: Medium
Diplomacy: Low
Politics: Medium
Commodore Syzi ch'Zelil
Current Posting: Commander, Klingon Border Zone
Rule-Abiding: Medium
Aggression: Medium
Nerve: High
Diplomacy: Low
Politics: Medium
Commodore T'Lam
Current Posting: Commander, Rigel Sector
Rule-Abiding: Medium
Aggression: Low
Nerve: Low
Diplomacy: High
Politics: Medium
Commodore Tomas Meyer
Current Posting: Commander, Ferasa Sector Fleet
Rule-Abiding: High
Aggression: Low
Nerve: Medium
Diplomacy: Medium
Politics: High
A talented bureaucrat and political operator, I feel that Captain Meyer requires more space side command and would rather see him promoted to a home sector command than further desk assignments.
Commodore Gorac Crogan
Current Posting: Assistant Deputy Chief of Staff (Operations), Starfleet Command
Rule-Abiding: Medium
Aggression: Medium
Nerve: Medium
Diplomacy: High
Politics: High
A long-serving Tellarite officer with significant experience already acquired in planet-side billets. In order to be satisfied that they are ready for a Rear Admiral billet, however, it would be best to see them take to space once more.
Commodore Thraan th'Marlaas
Current Posting: Chief of Staff, Starfleet Shipyard Operations
Rule-Abiding: Low
Aggression: High
Nerve: Medium
Diplomacy: Medium
Politics: Medium
A long serving officer in Shipyard Operations, I believe he is chafing with a long series of planetside assignments, and would like to see his talents verified through a different command before pushing him towards a Shipyard Command.
Commodore Michel Thuir
Current Posting: Operations Officer, Starfleet Tactical Field Command
Rule-Abiding: Medium
Aggression: High
Nerve: Medium
Diplomacy: Medium
Politics: High
An officer who has been proven in dangerous situations, with experience in command during the Biophage, and who has completed a Five Year Mission.
Commodore Nash ka'Sharren
Current Posting: Pending
Rule-Abiding: Low
Aggression: High
Nerve: High
Diplomacy: High
Politics: Medium
Commodore Constance Lecras
Current Posting: Deputy Chief of Staff, Starfleet Operations
Rule-Abiding: High
Aggression: Low
Nerve: Medium
Diplomacy: Medium
Politics: High
Commodore Charlotte O'Dea - 1 Free GBZ Intel Report
Current Posting: Dean, Starfleet Special Analysis School, Starfleet Academy
Rule-Abiding: Low
Aggression: Medium
Nerve: High
Diplomacy: Medium
Politics: High
Commodore Alejandro Suarez - Expanded Field Repair capacity
Current Posting: Chief of Staff, Starfleet Industrial Command, Shipyard Operations Command
Rule-Abiding: High
Aggression: Low
Nerve: Medium
Diplomacy: Low
Politics: High
Commodore Erzath zh'Darlyth
Current Posting: -None
Rule-Abiding: Low
Aggression: High
Nerve: Medium
Diplomacy: Medium
Politics: High
Rear Admiral Victoria Eaton
Current Posting: -None
Rule-Abiding: High
Aggression: High
Nerve: High
Diplomacy: Medium
Politics: High
Rear Admiral Rachel Ainsworth
Current Posting: Commander, Explorer Corps
Rule-Abiding: Medium
Aggression: High
Nerve: Medium
Diplomacy: Low
Politics: Medium
Rear Admiral Laura Mendoza
Current Posting: Deputy Chief of Staff, Starfleet Command
Rule-Abiding: Medium
Aggression: Low
Nerve: Medium
Diplomacy: Medium
Politics: High
Rear Admiral Waafrinch Iorin Skef
Current Posting: Commander, Starbase 4 [Tellar Prime]
Rule-Abiding: Low
Aggression: Medium
Nerve: High
Diplomacy: Low
Politics: High
Rear Admiral Sirvk
Current Posting: Director, 40 Eridani A Fleet Yards
Rule-Abiding: High
Aggression: Medium
Nerve: Low
Diplomacy: Medium
Politics: High
A steady hand at the tiller of 40 Eridani A Shipyards, Sirvk's attention to detail has seen him his shipyard never skip a beat throughout his tenure, even as Excelsior after Excelsior slides out of the berths.
Rear Admiral Pathe Lathriss
Current Posting: Independent Research
Rule-Abiding: Medium
Aggression: High
Nerve: High
Diplomacy: Medium
Politics: Low
Admiral Lathriss has been your senior-most mind on battle doctrine. The fact that he is from outside of Starfleet originally probably says a lot. It will also make it harder for him to hold down his position, but Rear Admiral Seruk feels he is capable if people will give him the chance. (+4 to any Doctrine research, -10pp/year)
Rear Admiral Ikitha zh'Bessash
Current Posting: Commander, Starbase 5 [Amarkia]
Rule-Abiding: Medium
Aggression: High
Nerve: Medium
Diplomacy: Medium
Politics: Low
Rear Admiral April Wu
Current Posting: Director, Starfleet Communications Command
Rule-Abiding: High
Aggression: Low
Nerve: Low
Diplomacy: Medium
Politics: High
Rear Admiral Anyth sh'Nathriq
Current Posting: Administrator, Operations Mission Control
Rule-Abiding: High
Aggression: Medium
Nerve: High
Diplomacy: Low
Politics: Medium
Rear Admiral Clarg Aghluk
Current Posting: Director, Starfleet Drafting Command
Rule-Abiding: Medium
Aggression: Medium
Nerve: Medium
Diplomacy: Low
Politics: High
Rear Admiral T'Lorel
Current Posting: Pending
Rule-Abiding: Medium
Aggression: Medium
Nerve: High
Diplomacy: High
Politics: Medium
Rear Admiral T'Lam
Current Posting: Commander, Starbase 6 [Beta Indi]
Rule-Abiding: Medium
Aggression: Low
Nerve: Low
Diplomacy: High
Politics: Medium
Vice Admiral Nyota Uhura
Current Posting: Chief of Starfleet Operations
Rule-Abiding: Low
Aggression: High
Nerve: High
Diplomacy: High
Politics: Medium
Vice Admiral Shey ch'Tharvasse
Current Posting: Chief of Staff, Starfleet Command
Rule-Abiding: High
Aggression: Low
Nerve: High
Diplomacy: Medium
Politics: High
Vice Admiral T'Faer
Current Posting: Director, Starfleet Logistics Command
Rule-Abiding: High
Aggression: Low
Nerve: Medium
Diplomacy: Medium
Politics: Low
Vice Admiral Sotak
Current Posting: Theatre Commander, Central Theatre
Rule-Abiding: High
Aggression: Low
Nerve: Medium
Diplomacy: High
Politics: Medium
The longserving commander of Starbase 2 in Vulcan, Rear Admiral Sotak is a solid and talented commander. He had considerable diplomatic experience as a Captain and Commodore.
Vice Admiral John Harriman
Current Posting: Theatre Commander, Spinward Theatre
Rule-Abiding: High
Aggression: Medium
Nerve: Medium
Diplomacy: Medium
Politics: Low
Q1 - Construction
Q2 - Submissions to Federation Council, Intelligence Committee Steering (Locked until Officer is replaced)
Q3 - Research
Q4 - Promotion Boards (Locked until Officer is replaced), Academy Recruitment Policy (Every 4 years)
@anon_user
LCdr Usha will run Utopia Planitia Design Group in six years
@Briefvoice
* +0.2 Explorer Corps Techs as more Vulcans sign on
* Gain a political project to conduct a Constitution redesign to lower crew requirements
@AKuz
+0.2 Explorer Corps enlisted as more crazy Andorians sign on
@pheonix89
* USS T'Mir gains +10% Evasion in combat/hull re-roll out of combat
Admiralty Honour Board
Admiral Vitalia Yukiko Kahurangi (Commander, Starfleet from 2301-2311)
Admiral Valentina Sousa (Commander, Starfleet from 2312-2315)
Admiral Hikaru Sulu (Commander, Starfleet from 2316-2320)
Admiral Shey ch'Tharvasse (Commander, Starfleet from 2321-2325)
This post is now many in-game years out of date, please follow most recent EOY threadmarks for up to date details.
===================================
Current Resource Stockpile:
Bulk Industrial Resources: 368br
Special Industrial Resources: 153sr
Political Will: 233pp
Research Points: 123rp
(2317.Q4)
Current Personnel Pool:
Standard Starfleet: 9.75 Officer, 18.8 Enlisted, 32.2 Techs
Explorer Corps: 5.5 Officer, 6.7 Enlisted, 5.9 Techs
(2317.Q4)
Active Starfleet Shipyards
San Francisco Fleet Yards - one (1) large 3mt Berth, two (2) small 1mt Berths
40 Eridani A Shipyards [Vulcan] - two (2) large 3mt Berths, two (2) small 1mt Berths
Ana Font Shipyard [Tellar] - one (1) large 2.5mt Berth, one (1) small 1mt Berth
Lor'Vela Orbital Construction Facility [Andor] - one (1) large 2.5mt Berth, one (1) small 1mt Berth
Utopia Planitia Fleet Yards [Sol] - three (3) large 3mt Berths, three (3) small 1mt Berths
Oreassa Starfleet Yards - two (2) small 1mt Berths
Intazzi Shipyarsd - one (1) large 3mt Berth, one (1) small 1mt Berth
Annual Income*:
Bulk Industrial Resources: 1090br (2317.Q4)
Special Industrial Resources: 795sr (2317.Q4)
Research Points: 233rp (2317.Q4)
Political Will: 144pp (2317.Q4)
Starfleet Academy:
Officers (O): 18.10pts (+4 Explorer Corps)
Enlisted Crew (E): 22.4pts (+3.45 Explorer Corps)
Science Techs (T): 23.25pts (+3.2 Explorer Corps)
(2317.Q4)
Under construction
Research Colony, Cronulla VI, [5 (7) rp/yr, (1 pp/yr)] ETA 2316.Q2
Bonuses in effect:
+5 br from each BR mining colony.
+10 sr from each SR mining colonies.
+2 RP from each research colonies.
+2 RP from each non-research colonies.
+1 PP from each all colonies.
Currently Under Construction:
Follow most recent Shipyard Ops - Results threadmark.
1 Excelsior-class (NCC-2023) @ Ana Font Shipyard Berth A (ETC 2317.Q1 - Crews deduct 2316.Q1)
1 Renaissance class ship (NCC-2602) @ Ana Font Shipyard Berth 1 (ETC 2317.Q2 - Crews deduct 2316.Q2)
ETC = Estimated Time of Commissioning. The bays are clear and new ships can be created as of this date. Crews are deducted 1 Year before Commissioning date to begin specific training and shakedown work.
Ship Stats : Ships have a Combat rating (C) for the ability to fight; a Science rating (S) for ability to carry out science missions; a Hull rating to indicate toughness and ability to survive fights and accidents; a Shield rating (L) used in battle to protect the hull; a Presence rating (P) to indicate how well they are received as diplomats and peacekeepers; a Defence rating (D) to indicate how much they contribute to protecting a system.
Crew Rating : Explorer Corps crews are the best and the brightest, and a little bit of polish can go a long way. Through events, traits, or time served, a crew can advance in experience. The progression is Green -> Blooded -> Veteran -> Elite. Each tier past Green gives +1 to all stats except Defence. These stats do not count when tallying for things like your Maximum Combat. Some other non-Explorer Corps ships can also gain points of veterancy, through rewards or events.
Explorer Corps : This is a special sub-set of Starfleet, from which the crews of the Five Year Mission crews are taken. They are the best and brightest of Starfleet, the most capable and prepared for taking on the weird, wondrous, and terrifying adventures of deep space exploration.
Five Year Missions : The Federation wants a minimum number of Five Year Missions underway at any given time. Falling below this level earns a Militarisation point.
Captain's Log : The main heartbeat of the quest is the Captain's Log turn. This is a report from your ships as to occurrences and events that take place during a given quarter of the year. This is your greatest source of opportunity, danger, resources, adventure, political goodwill, and advancement in the game. Every ship on a Five Year Mission will have an automatic event rolled for it each quarter. Every Sector of space, however, will also have a roll attached to it, with about a 1 in 4 chance of triggering an event. These events will be handled by ships that are garrisoning that region of space.
Key Systems : Each key system in the Federation provides resources to Starfleet's budget. They also require a certain level of defence. That system will suspend providing political will for as long as that level is not met. See Garrison below.
Schedule : Construction will be decided in the 1st Quarter of every year, starting 2302. Research will be decided in the 3rd Quarter of every year, starting 2302. Starfleet's main report to the Federation Council occurs in 2nd Quarter. The Captain's and Admiral's promotion board meets during 4th Quarter. Every normal quarter has a "Captain's Log" phase.
State of Emergency : A State of Emergency is declared in circumstances when a force, entity, prospective event, or other agent threatens to visit systemic harm to the Federation. In other words, war, alien invasion, mass plague outbreaks, subspace shenanigans. Turns shift from quarters to months, and a system of mobilisation begins, whereby assets are provided to you for directing to different strategic tasks.
Starfleet Ambitions : This is here as a helpful little reminder for players of what long-term goals they have set for themselves. When you set a ten-year ambition, you let the Council know what you are looking to achieve in your time. Accomplishing this gets you more influence with the Council. When you set an ambition, depending on what it is, the Council may assist or potentially even stymie you, depending on what it is (hint: don't say war with the galaxy is your ambition).
Research : In To Boldly Go, you control R&D through your Ship Design Bureau. Although it is called Ship Design Bureau, you actually get to control a pretty wide range of topics. All the little technologies are grouped into Categories. Rather than pick an individual tech to research, researching works by assigning a Research Team to a category. That Research Team will then make progress on all the techs that belong to that category. As a boost, one tech at random gets an extra +5 progress. This process takes place on the 3rd Quarter of each Year.
Research Point : A Research Point is a fungible "unit" of research. Use Research Points to activate Research Teams.
Research Team : A Research Team is a unit that has a preferred type of research and a skill level. Each point of Skill means one point of progress on the techs you research. If the category you are researching is the preferred category of the Team, then double the progress.
Shipbuilding : To get new ships, you need to build them. To build a ship you need: Bulk Resources (the basic material that makes up the bulk of the ship), Special Resources (material like warp coil alloys, deflector emitter components, computer components, etc), an big enough, available shipyard berth, and crew. Ships take a long time to build, even the small ones require two years to complete. Large ships can take four or more years. Shipyard assignments are determined in the 1st Quarter of each Year.
Shipyards & Berths : Starfleet has a number of Shipyards that it controls, that provide it with berths of a particular size. Each ship that you want to build requires a berth that has equal or greater mass than the ship. This berth is then tied up for the duration, and cannot build other ships. Think of them as pigeonholes for your ships.
Scale : The scale value of a ship is a term for when designing a new ship. Each point of scale gives an extra 300k t of weight allowance. Increasing scale eventually takes you from Escort size, to Cruiser size, to Explorer Size.
Crews : Crews are comprised of "points" of Officers, Enlisted, and Technicians. Exactly how many are in a point is deliberately flexibile, but as a rule of thumb it's around about fifty. Every ship you build requires a certain amount of each type of crew. An Explorer is heavy on all types of crew, particularly officers. An escort tends to be light on officers, heavy on enlisted. A science ship like an Oberth is full of Technicians. Crews can also be either Explorer Corps, or standard Starfleet.
Casualties : Ships in battle, or even in some events (particularly failed events) can take casualties in their crew. If a ship loses half their crew points, then the Veterancy of the crew is reduced by 1.
Political Concepts
Federation Council : The Federation itself is run by a Council. As the commander of Starfleet, you also answer to this Council, and can be called to account for the actions of Starfleet, as well as have tasks and objectives set that you must carry out or face replacement. However, you can also spend your political influence in order to convince the Council to undertake projects for Starfleet. In a post-money economy with the Industrial might of Earth and Tellar Prime, typically the stumbling block to the Federation getting something done isn't capacity, it's will. The Council calls you before the budgetary committees in the 2nd Quarter of each Year.
Political Will : Use this in order to get things out of the UFP, including new shipyards, expansions to shipyards, new ship design programs, increasing resources, expanding the Explorer Corps base, appointing new explorer-capable Captains, creating new fleets, raising threat level, reducing militarisation level, some R&D programs.
Projects : Various projects can be 'purchased' from the Council. These will typically have an development period before they come into effect, which will be listed along with the option.
Militarisation : The Federation will clamp down on you if you are seen to be overtly militarising while outside of a wartime/existential threat footing. Failing to maintain the requisite minimum of science points and exploration missions generates Militarisation. You have a soft-cap Maximum Combat Points, which is the tally of the base combat stat of your ships (not counting crew bonuses). For every ten points that you exceed the cap, your Militarisation is increased by 1. Beyond that, Militarisation is like obscenity, I'll know it when I see it.
Threat Level : The Federation's current appreciation for the threat posed to it by external forces. Having Militarisation points higher than your Threat Level causes the Federation to start acting to rein you in, by removing resources, cancelling shipyard contracts or research projects, beaching particular commanders, and even removing you from office. Every point of threat level increases the level of Militarisation that you can carry.
Minimum Science Points : The Federation has a mandate for a minimum amount of Science points to keep up Starfleet's mandate as explorers. This is the sum total of Science points attached to every ship.
Federation Membership : The Federation is always looking for fellow like-minded species to join them. There are two stages to this. If the Diplomacy rating of a species (which increases via events or selecting Diplomatic Push during a Council turn) reaches 100, they become "Affiliate Members". These are not formally part of the Federation, however they are friendly, willing to work with you, and will allow sharing of some facilities. Depending on your policies and researched technologies, they also can provide resources and crew. When they reach 500, they become full members, and become fully contributing parts of the Federation.
Diplomacy : The Federation's relationship with other species is tracked. It is changed by some events, and by deliberate actions by you. For affiliate members, there is an increase roll made every year during the Fed Council turn.
Operations
Operations : As head of Starfleet, you are responsible for a number of areas. One of them is the overall distribution of your fleet.
Defence : Every ship and installation has a "Defence" value, the amount which that ship contributes to providing a flexible response to that area. In a way, you can consider this a function of "Speed" and "Combat power"
Garrison : The Federation Council wants you to make sure every important sector is protected. Having enough ships to meet the minimum requirement of each area is a key part of your job. If you don't meet these requirements, the sector you are short changing will start to cause a lot of trouble at Council for you, and you start missing out on their contributions to Starfleet's budget. These are periodically altered by the Federation Council in response to developments in-universe, such as new, unfriendly species being discovered.
Resources
Budget : As you are in a "post-money economy", a Budget should not be thought of in terms of dollars and cents. You don't draw a wage, after all. Rather, it is the raw resource allotment that the Federation Council sees fit to allocate to you.
Annual Income : At the start of every year, your stockpiles of resources are increased by a given amount. Through new colonies, expansions, and certain characters, you can alter the amount you receive.
Exploration : Captain's Log turns often turn up new resources in the course of their treks through the stars.
Bulk Resources : Your large basic metals. The sort of alloys that form the hulls and framework of your starships.
Special Resources : These are the exotic materials, that are harder to acquire and used in lesser quantities in ship construction. Things like dilithium, or rare materials used in warp cores, shield emitters, warp coils, phaser banks, and a variety of specialised purposes.
Political Will : Collect Political Will to curry favour with the Federation Council. Some actions or characters will cost Political Will, some will gain it.
Research Points : Collect research to activate research teams to assign.
Personnel Pool : Starfleet Academy pumps out crew in three flavours for your ships: Officers, Enlisted, and Technicians. One thing that is important to remember is that there is a special sub-set of crew, called Explorer Corps, with its own intake rate. You will find both pools listed side by side.
Personnel, Promotions, & Billets
Rank : As the head of Starfleet, you sit at the apex of a great pyramid of officers as the only full Admiral. Beneath you are a handful of Vice Admirals, a lot of Rear Admirals, Commodores, and Captains. Almost everyone is trying to make their way up the chain. One of the most common votes you will undertake in this quest is choosing officers to be promoted into one of the senior roles within Starfleet.
Up or Out : With the number of officers coming through, and the limited number of spaces, eventually officers who cannot achieve promotions are squeezed out. The biggest bottleneck is the one that lies between Rear Admiral and Vice Admiral. Positions will open up as other officers retire, get promotions/reassignments of their own.
Rat Race : Every year in the 4th Quarter, you will get a summary of promotions, retirements, reassignments, and other important career changes to your key personnel. This also includes changes to the Explorer Corps' Panel of Captains, which you will find more detail on below.
Billets : There are a lot of individual Commands within Starfleet, covering areas like Operations, Medical, Shipyard Ops, Ship Design, Intel, Tactical, and others. Having the right commander in place, providing the right bonus, can be crucial to making the most of your time in space. When one of the senior billets becomes available, you will get a choice of three officers who are either the right rank or eligible to be promoted, along with some detail as to who they are, and what bonus they provide.
Old Guard : Your predecessor's appointments are by and large doing their own thing, and you have a limited ability to influence what happens in their areas of responsibility. As you replace these officers, you will start to have more influence over Starfleet as a whole.
Bonuses : Every officer has a bonus that they can apply if placed into a given command.
I am settling into my new role as quickly as able, but Starfleet is an organisation with tens of thousands of officers, and many times that supporting in starbases and ground facilities. Taking charge is no small matter. Even so, I relish the challenge. Starfleet is in many ways the guiding light of the Federation. Right now the Federation is filled with potential.
It is my solemn mission that I shall leave the Federation greater, wiser, and more inclusive than when I found it. I care not whether history remembers my name, only that they remember this as the most prosperous and peaceful time as possible.
[Human selected: Gain 10% discount on political cost of expansions to Industrial items, such as shipyards]
Patricia, thankfully, has settled in much faster than myself. The newly minted Rear Admiral is pursuing her new role with gleeful vigour, an inspiration to myself. Already I have a list of six candidates for the three new missions sitting in my inbox, which I will review shortly. I am eager to look through them. The Explorer Corps are our finest. The best and the brightest of Starfleet, and the ideal to which our service strives.
The three that we select will take command of the Enterprise, the Courageous, and the Sarek, all Excelsior-class ships. The pride of our fleet. They will depart on five year missions of exploration, like my grandmother once did, and enrich our knowledge of the universe.
This is a weighty decision that deserves much careful thought.
Computer, End Log.
xxx
From: Rear Admiral Patricia Chen, Commander, Starfleet Explorer Corps
To: Admiral, Starfleet, Commanding
[ ] Write in: Player name
Subject: Explorer Corps Panel of Captains
Hello Admiral,
I hope this message finds you well, and you've had an easier time settling into your new offices than I have. I haven't been able to sit still for a moment in the last three days!
I have compiled and attached a list of six candidates for the missions. As you know, we have three ships to assign people to. My people will handle the officers and crews, but you have final say on the Captains selected.
I await your reply in the following format at your discretion:
[ ] Select Captains
-[ ] USS Enterprise: Write in
-[ ] USS Courageous: Write in
-[ ] USS Sarek: Write in
Yours Sincerely,
Rear Admiral Patricia Chen
Commander, Starfleet Explorer Corps
Attached File is as follows:
Captain Rachel Ainsworth
Human Female, 38
Current Assignment: USS Kearsage, Constellation-class, Romulan Border
Forewarned is forearmed, thus it is best to find the threats in their system before they find you in your own system, ship gains +1 Combat, +1 Hull, Starfleet gains +1 Militarisation
Captain T'Lorel
Vulcan Female, 68
Current Assignment: USS Chreon, Constitution-class, Vulcan Sector
The very soul of patience and insight, may re-roll failed First Contact events
Captain Trinnarv Xursh
Tellarite Male, 44
Current Assignment: Chief, Resources Division, Starfleet Shipyard Operations
A keen-eyed explorer with a mind for metal, re-roll failed resource acquisition events.
Captain Revak
Vulcan Male, 51
Current Assignment: Starfleet Academy, Lecturing Political Science
A competent if unspectacular Vulcan with ambitions and strong patrons, gain +5 Political Will per year.
Captain Nash ka'Sharren
Andorian Female, 32
Current Assignment: USS Lion, Miranda-class, Klingon Border
A cowboy, wild, unpredictable, and successful, she makes the council pull their hair out, but gets things done, Crew Rating + 1, -5 Political Will per Year
Captain Victoria Eaton
Human Female, 46
Current Assignment: Deputy Director, Operations, Starfleet Cartography
As methodical a mind as there is with an eye for every detail, re-roll failed mapping missions.
The three new captains of the Enterprise, the Courageous, and the Sarek have arrived and taken up their new positions. Today they depart from Starbase 1 to take on their new roles as the beacons of the Federation. An Andorian, a human, and a Vulcan are among them, a cross-section of the diversity that makes our Federation strong.
With the Sol Sector's garrison included, we have four Excelsior-class explorers in orbit. From a certain point of view, this is the mightiest collection of military power we have ever seen collected. Yet I prefer to think of it as the greatest display of industry, and the greatest meeting of our best, and our brightest, since the birth of the Federation. Brave Captain ka'sharren, who stops at nothing to do what she knows is right. Methodical Captain Eaton, who seems as at home in unexplored space as she does in Earth orbit. And Captain T'Lorel, who combines Vulcan dispassion with uncanny insight, able to wear down the most hostile of bluster like the water wears down the stone.
It is my heavy honour to send forth these sterling officers into the final frontier. I am sure that they will do credit to the finest traditions of our service.
Computer, End Log
===
The departure ceremony itself lasts for an hour, and various dignitaries and ambassadors are on hand to farewell the explorers on their long mission. You are of course present as well, resplendent in your crimson officer's uniform, the dazzling device of a full Admiral upon your right breast. You have to admit, it's hardly the most comfortable uniform. Of course, when you first started your service in Starfleet, they still had that minidress uniform for women, so at least this is a bit more practical.
It has come time to send the three captains on their way. All three ships are sitting in dry-dock. The shimmering blue of their warp nacelles illuminates the skeletal docks. The bone white of their hulls stands out starkly against the void.
The Andorian captain is on your viewscreen now. She slouches in her command chair, not lazily, but like a great cat, waiting and ready to spring. Nash ka'Sharren has a reputation as the boldest Captain in the fleet. Who better to carry forth the name Enterprise once more into the void?
"This is USS Enterprise, requesting permission to undock from Starbase 1," you hear the helmsman of the ship request.
Nothing can keep the grin off of your face. "Permission granted, Enterprise."
Nash ka'Sharren stood from her command chair and tapped a communicator to address her crew. "USS Enterprise, departing on a five year mission to seek out new life, and new civilisations. To boldly go where no Andorian has gone before. Helmsman, take us out."
Applause ripples through the observation deck where you watch with the dignitaries. Soon you go through the process with the Courageous and the Sarek, and the three sleek Excelsiors are making their way out into space. A new era of Starfleet has now begun under your watch.
===
Captain Nash ka'Sharren folds her arms over her chest, her antenna twitching as she regards her crew. This assignment, the Enterprise, on a new mission of exploration, is the single most prized assignment in all of Starfleet. And now it is hers. Her smile is giddy, and she doesn't care to suppress it.
"Set in a course for the Connaught System," she orders. "Warp factor eight."
"Course set, Captain."
"Onward, helm!"
The Enterprise lurched forth into the stars.
===
Captain Victoria Eaton remains seated, reviewing every report that comes to her command chair. "Very well," she says at last. "Everything is in order. Helm, course change. Set to Tycho System, warp factor seven."
"Yes, captain. Confirmed."
"Execute."
A second Excelsior departs on her mission, long lines stretching into infinity for an instant.
===
Captain T'Lorel stands between Ops and Helm where she can see all the activity around her as excited new crew handle their stations for the first time outside of a simulator. As illogical as their giddiness is, T'Lorel knows to expect it. Indeed, she would be more concerned if the emotional races around her were not so. They may frustrate many Vulcans, but for T'Lorel, as long as they illogically behave in the way they logically should, then she was comfortable. Finally she walks to her command chair and sits anew.
"Helm. Prepare a course to our first mission waypoint. Goslauth System, Warp factor six."
"Aye, Captain, Goslauth system, course set."
"Commence course."
The third Excelsior reaches for the future and spears into subspace.
===
Captains Log, Victoria Eaton, USS Courageous, Stardate 20564.4
While conducting sensor sweeps of the planet Ethur IV, we have been confronted by two light cruisers belonging to the Yrilian people. They have demanded our surrender to be tried for piracy and mayhem. It appears there is a case of mistaken identity. We are being blamed for an attack on this species outer colony. My tactical officer has been urging me to fight my way out and while I concur that we should win, I feel there is still a chance for peace here, if I can convince them to look at the sensor sweeps we have taken.
-
Captain's Log, Nash ka'Sharren, USS Enterprise, Stardate 20565.2
Things have started quietly. Almost too quietly. Nonetheless, we have quickly found an early boon to our adventures. While scanning asteroid belts at the Kopal-Watts System, my science officer has uncovered crystalline deposits that warrant closer inspection.
-
Captain's Log, T'Lorel, USS Sarek, Stardate 20565.4
Science and exploration have proven their worth anew. While mapping the Josephine System, I have encountered a mineral-rich world that can be easily exploited. We have signalled Starfleet, and the USS Intrepid has arrived bearing a mineral research team, who have extracted some of the ore. Should the Federation desire, a mining colony could be settled here.
[+50 Bulk Resources to stockpile]
[New Mining Colony added to Federation Council Options]
-
Captain's Log Victoria Eaton, USS Courageous, Stardate 20565.9
I have convinced the Yrilian commander to examine our sensor logs that show where our wake has been. It proves we could not have been responsible for the dreadful attack on their colony. As a result we have entered orbit around Ethur II and are providing medical aid. The Yrilians are effusive in their gratitude, and have promised to contact Starfleet.
[+5 Political Will gained]
-
Captain's Log, Nash ka'Sharren, USS Enterprise, Stardate 20571.4
I nearly lost the first crew member of my voyage when Crewman Cirak was electrocuted by an energy discharge from the crystalline formation. Thankfully, after warping to the nearby second world of this system to retrieve the unique Red Tiger Paw flower for our protein resequencers, our medical team was able to save his life. Further, after reviewing the discharge, my science officer has determined that these crystals could have many applications for starship creation. We have harvested those that are present, and will keep our eyes peeled for more.
Captain Nash ka'Sharren's antennae quiver in excitement as she takes her shuttle close to the spindly spacedock that cradles the USS Enterprise NCC-1701-B.
Dozens of small work pods buzz around the dock and the Enterprise; completing the Excelsior class' refit.
The long graceful form of the ship brings to mind speed, efficiency, and grace. The Enterprise is beautiful… and she belongs to the lithe Andorian woman now.
Or she will as soon as Captain ka'Sharren steps aboard her and takes command from her current Captain. The blue woman is only a little jealous that she won't be the Starship's first.
Still, it's the Enterprise!
(And she's in good company - Kirk wasn't his Enterprise's first Captain either!)
She takes her small shuttlepod in close to the saucer section, staying just far enough away that she isn't technically violating regulations, as the Starfleet officer studies every line and curve on her new love.
Enterprise is a big girl too, despite her grace and delicate look. She's easily twice the length and many times the mass of Ka'Sharren's last command, the nimble Miranda class USS Lion.
Ka'Sharren lets the shuttle drift lazily along as she drinks it all in and basks in the knowledge that this beauty is going to be hers.
Next to her someone coughs gently, then sighs.
Ka'Sharren puts her hands back on the controls, "Can you really blame me Sam? She's quite the looker"
Lieutenant-Commander Samhaya Mrr'shan, formerly the tactical officer of the USS Lion, sighs. She's used to her Captain's ways.
The Caitian officer has seen her Captain fall in love before, but never so completely or so deeply. Samhaya's almost a little jealous, but she decides to keep her dignity intact rather than drool over Enterprise.
Of course, if any ship deserves to be drooled over, it's the Enterprise.
"I suppose she is Captain, I just thought I'd remind you that we are still on a tight schedule."
The Andorian gives a small snort, as she brings the small shuttlepod around and programs it for the Enterprise's shuttlebay, "I suppose we are. You're right as usual Sam"
"I usually am," says the Tactical officer with feline pride.
Ka'Sharren flips a switch on the panel as the open deck of the Enterprise comes into view. "Enterprise shuttle control, this is Captain Ka'Sharren, we're on approach. Handing over control... now"
The voice on the other end of the line sounds surprised, and pauses for a moment, "Right, Shuttle control taking remote control Ma'am."
The two female officers step back from the window and head towards the rear hatch, Captain Ka'Sharren stopping to address an Ensign along the way, "Thank you Ensign, I appreciate you letting me borrow your shuttlepod. She's yours again, keep her safe."
He scrambles to his feet from a bench in the passenger section, eyes wide, "Yes Ma'am!" he says, snapping off a quick salute.
The two more senior officers return it, Captain Ka'Sharren with a slight smile, and Lt-Commander Mrr'shan with an air of solemnity she feels the ritual deserves.
As the shuttle lands, the Caitian begins to examine her uniform, straightening it out, and making sure that every pleat was still pressed.
"Sam," says the Andorian, "Sam, you look fine", Ka'Sharren says, straightening her cuffs.
"An officer should always make sure she's presentable, especially for first impressions!" the Caitian says, patting down a bit of ruffled fur on her neck.
"Well. We've got that down too," the Captain replies as the shuttle hatch swings down onto the shuttle deck.
There are a dozen officers there to meet them; the outgoing senior staff and the Ka'Sharren's new set of senior officers.Captain Ka'Sharren strides confidently down the shuttle ramp almost before it hits the deck; this is her ship, she's in Command.
From among the cluster of crimson and black uniformed officers a thin human, r steps forward, arm extended in greeting. His armband has the most gold on the cuffs.
The Andorian takes the hand with a broad smile and a vigorous shake, "Commodore Harriman, it is a pleasure to meet you in the flesh at last."
The Enterprise's outgoing commanding officer smiles back, tightly, "Captain Ka'Sharren. It is good to meet you."
The Andorian turns to her side slightly, indicating the slightly built, felinoid Caitian officer following her down the ramp, "This is Lieutenant-Commander Samhaya Mrr'shan, my tactical officer. We'd hoped to get here sooner, but Klingon freighters don't save themselves," she pauses with a smirk and a shrug, "Well, not that one anyway."
The Commodore chuckles slightly and walks her back towards the other officers, "I'd like to introduce you to your new senior staff."
"Thank you Commodore, I'm glad Starfleet approved my requests," she says as she reaches out a hand towards the nearest one, a green skinned Orion Commander with medical insignia, "'Doctor Asurva' I assume?"
The Orion smiles back brightly and takes her hand, "Commander Pritya Asurva at your service, ma'am," she beams, "I am really looking forward to this, it's all very exciting!"
"That it is Doctor, that it is," the Andorian says as she moves on to the next officer in line, a stone-faced Vulcan Lieutenant, "Lieutenant Stol, an Excelsior veteran and my new conn officer, yes?"
The Vulcan nods gravely, "Yes Ma'am."
The Captain returns the grave nod and moves down the line to a light-skinned human, "Lieutenant-Commander Diego Zaardmani, Captain. I will be taking charge of your science division," he says extending a hand human-style.
Ka'Sharren reaches out her hand in return, "I remembered that Captain Yates recommended you highly, so when I saw your name on the roster, I knew I had my man."
Captain Ka'Sharren reaches the end of the line; a solidly built dark-skinned Human woman with close cropped black hair, who takes Ka'Sharren's proffered hand with aggressive energy, "Commander Maryam Ajam at you service Captain, I'm pleased to be serving with you."
Captain Ka'Sharren grins at her new first officer, "The feeling is mutual Commander."
The Andorian looks around the shuttle bay for a moment, confused,"...We're missing someone."
The executive officer nods, "Yes Ma'am, Lieutenant-Commander Bazeck is still in engineering."
"An appropriate place for an engineer, then. I'll have to pop in and say hi later!"
The Captain turns back to her predecessor, "I wish I had the time to talk Commodore, and pick your brain, but-"
"-that Klingon freighter didn't save itsel,f" he finishes, almost wistfully, "Sometimes our first day doesn't always go as planned," he sighs, "count yourself luck that you're merely running behind."
Harriman holds out his hand again, and Ka'Sharren takes it, pulling back in surprise with something in her hand.
It was a round patch with a picture of an old NX class ship in the middle and 'Enterprise, NX-01' written around the outside.
"Archer gave that to Captain April, he gave it to Pike, Pike to Kirk, and Kirk gave it to me on my first day…" he trails off momentarily, "Now it's yours on your first day. Lateness aside, I hope your first day on Enterprise goes better than mine."
He smiles, "Which is why I'm leaving now, I don't want to jinx you," he gives a tired chuckle, "Besides, I know how annoying it can be to have a pair of fancy cuffs hovering over your shoulder."
Harriman looks around the shuttle deck, as his officers board the shuttle, taking it all in one last time, "Enterprise is your ship now, Captain Ka'Sharren Take good care of her, and She'll take good care of you," he smiles gently, blinking noticeably, "Godspeed and good luck Captain Ka'Sharren."
"Stay safe Commodore," Captain Ka'Sharren says solemnly as Harriman turns to walk up the ramp.
As the Shuttle lifts off, the Andorian turns around to face her new officers, "Well, we don't want to keep Admiral Kahurangi waiting."
The blue woman strides towards the nearest turbolift, she's so close to taking command now, she can taste it.
There is an awkward silence in the Turbolift at first, as Ka'Sharren uses the controls, and turns around, "So, are we ready? Is Enterprise ready?"
Her officers nod or give agree verbally.
The turbolift begins to slow down, "Then we get out there and impress the brass and the civvies. Make them proud, and the Crew proud."
Captain Nash Ka'SHarren takes a breath and steps out onto the Enterprise's bridge. She confidently strides towards that coveted centre seat as an Enlisted calls out her presence.
She's been waiting to say these words for days now, they were only thing on her mind during the ride out to Enterprise, and until she saw her new love in person, these words were the only thing in her mind.
As she stands in the center of the Excelsior class starship's bridge, her new XO hands her a PADD with those words on it.
"Put me through to the crew."
An enlisted woman nods, and the entire bridge quiets down.
"To Captain Nash Ka'Sherren, Stardate 20554, you are hereby requested and required to take command of the USS Enterprise, NCC-1701-B, as of this date. Signed: Rear Admiral Patricia Chen, Starfleet Command."
"Admiral Kahurangi, we are honoured to have you with us," the committee chairman invoked.
"Honoured to appear here, Councillor," you reply as you stand behind an elaborate table. "The Federation Council is the cornerstone of everything we strive for." You know this is laying it on a little thick, but what the heck. You've never known a political type who didn't like being talked up.
At your side you have the head of the Explorer's Corps, Patricia Chen, who is still looking like the cat that ate the canary after her ships had successful starts to their voyages. Your Yeoman is there, young, bright-eyed and bushy-tailed. At your age and rank, you think the safe term to use is 'adorable'. You're accompanied by the Starfleet Chief of Operations, Vice-Admiral Hamsfeld, one of your predecessor's appointments and someone you would quite like to replace. In the gallery behind you is a small army of red-clad officers, a veritable rogue's gallery of division heads, section chiefs and who knows what else.
"Thank you, Admiral, you may take your seat while we prepare to swear you in."
You gratefully sit down, and take the moment to look around at the vast array of different species and cultures present in the room. The pomp and pageantry of these Parisian chambers is suitably majestic and, most of all, intimidating. A careful hand guards your whisper to Patricia: "Remind me why I let them promote me off the bridge of a ship again?"
"I was just asking myself the same thing," she whispers back.
===
Starfleet Commander's Log, Stardate 20611.1
My first experience making my annual presentation to the Federation Council. Quite the experience. I have, of course, been present on other occasions, but never as the 'guest of honour'. There are many in Starfleet with a possibly idealised view of how the universe works. However, I daresay that none of them come close to the view from the Federation Council chambers in Paris. But no matter.
As I have only been in the position for a few scant months, and do not yet have much to report, it seemed that this was more an exercise in laying down what the Federation expects of me. To be truthful, though the aims are daunting, I appreciate having goals to strive for. An increase in the scientific capacity of the fleet, a cap in the military strength, and a minimum for missions of exploration were mandated. As well, the Federation gave me their views on the current militarisation of Starfleet, and what they perceive as the major threats.
Most of this was simply dictating terms to me. However, I was able to successfully argue that...
[ ] [REQUIREMENT] ...the Science Requirement requires more time.
[ ] [REQUIREMENT] ...the Maximum Combat should be higher.
[ ] [REQUIREMENT] ...the current Threat Level should be higher
[ ] [REQUIREMENT] ...the Budget should be increased.
[ ] [REQUIREMENT] Write in:
There was an interesting turn after that. I was asked what I considered Stafleet's ten-year goal to be. It was a question we had suspected was coming, though. The night before I had ironed out an answer along with Rear Admiral Chen.
[ ] [GOAL] Starfleet would see at least two new species join the Federation by 2311.
[ ] [GOAL] Starfleet would see the replacement of the Excelsior-class enter production by 2311.
[ ] [GOAL] Starfleet would see the replacement of the Constellation-class enter production by 2311.
[ ] [GOAL] Starfleet would facilitate the opening of peace talks with the Romulans by 2311.
[ ] [GOAL] Starfleet will have no fewer than 5 ongoing Five Year Missions by 2311.
[ ] [GOAL] Write in:
They seemed to ponder my answer for a while. I'm not sure if it was what they expected to hear, but it seems to have been well received in the end.
In any case, it looks like I have escaped the Viper's Den with my skin intact. Indeed, I think I made a good showing of myself, and now both myself and the Council know where we stand. It is good to have a goal to strive for.
Computer, End Log
====
Federation Grading:
Current Minimum Science = 50 [Now 56]
Current Maximum Combat = 100 [Now 71]
(Soft cap, will gain +1 Militarisation per 10 pts over - will increase with Threat Level by 10)
Minimum Concurrent 5 Year Missions = 3
Current Militarisation Level = 3
Current Federation Threat Level = 5
Council Objectives:
85 Science by 2311
2 New Oberths by 2311
Starfleet Ambitions:
<TBD>
Current Federation Full Members:
Humans
Vulcans
Andorians
Tellarites
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