Monday, March 25, 2019

Referee Notes 8

Secret Service Banner (3FTSS/SPS)

3FT Secret Service

The 3 Fists Triumvirate Secret Service is the interstellar intelligence agency of the Republic of Krax.  Members of this elite force serve as the personal body guards to the three members of the triumvirate.  Like the Shattered Planet Security [SPS] service, the 3FT Secret Service [3FT] operates as a security unit throughout the Republic of Krax.  Unlike the SPS, the 3FT also operates beyond the borders of the Republic of Krax.  Rumor has it that an operative sits on the Moot of the Imperium.

The 3FT also conducts intelligence gathering, espionage, and assassinations.  Several planetary officials of the Republic of Krax have died mysteriously since the 3FT has come to power.  Many of these deaths have been attributed to the 3FT.

The use of the 3FT abbreviation can apply to the three ruling members of the triumvirate or it can also apply to 3FT operatives.  Basically, any activity of 3FT agents is fully sanctioned by the three triumvirate members. The term is therefore interchangeable between the rulers and the agency.  The mere mention of "3FT" strikes fear into the hearts of many throughout the Republic of Krax.

No planetary system within the Republic can contract with a mercenary company without the approval of the 3FT. Any mercenary units hired to operate within the Republic must include a 3FT agent.  This agent must hold the rank of Colonel at the minimum. There are also plans to assemble 3FT mercenary services for other interstellar governments.  These elite mercenaries, made up of only 3FT operatives, will hire out to those interstellar governments friendly to the 3FT.  The Mandanin Co-Dominion is a major supporter of the 3FT and are extremely interested in the implementation of these 3FT mercenary units. 3FT Agents reside within the ranks of all branches of the military.  Several elite ground units are solely made up of members of the 3FT.  These units operate attached to regular Republic of Krax ground forces. 3FT controlled naval fleets are also in the works. 

In the year 1119, the 3FT's reach is limited but growing with each passing year.  Operatives are concentrated along the borders with the Imperium and in those systems of the Republic who are showing resistance to 3FT rule.  Many subsectors have minimal 3FT presence, and several systems within these subsectors have no 3FT presence at all.  By the year 1133, 3FT operatives are present throughout the entire Republic of Krax.

Referee Notes 7

SPS Insignia

Shattered Planet Security [The SPS] 

The Shattered Planet Security force [SPS] was formed on the same day as the Shattered Planet Party [SPP] (250-1114).  This security force serves as as the official police force of the Republic of Krax.  The SPS coordinates with local system governments to monitor political dissident activities as well as maintaining security for all SPP officials.  It is also known as "the police of the police."  The SPS maintains overt agents (police) and covert operatives (agents).  Many of its officers have an excellent working relationship with planetary police force members.  SPS Leadership on the other hand does not.  Most planetary police members view the SPS Leadership with disdain.  This relationship is much like 21st century earth's rank and file police officers with their bureaucratic bosses. The SPS can be mobilized into a paramilitary authority if SPS Leadership deems it necessary.  This authority can also override  planetary military force leadership.  The military is not fond of this, but it also knows that resistance can lead to summary execution.  The 3 Fists Triumvirate Leadership (3FT) tolerates NO insubordination of planatery forces, police or military.  Mobilization events are occurring less and less with the 3FT's consolidation of power.  More and more systems of the Republic of Krax are becoming fervant supporters of the 3FT.  Things are beginning to return to normal and that includes working relationships with the SPS and local governing bodies. Most spying activities are the responsibility of the 3FT Secret Service.  The SPS maintains spies, but these operatives are usually restricted to their home systems.  If travellers are suspected of espionage, many SPS agents will transfer survellience to 3FT operatives.  Once a suspect makes a move to leave the SPS agent's system, the agent is required to transfer survellience to a 3FT operative. He or she will not follow the suspect off-world.

The SPS is also responsible for security detail when interstellar/planetary government members hold official functions within their respective systems.  Planetary security is never entrusted to local police.  Only SPS members serve in this capacity.  Minor governmental and local officials may use regular police for security details, but an SPS agent must be present to coordinate security.


Referee Notes 6

The History of the Shattered Planet Party's [SPP] Formation

1-1110

The smuggled group of terrorists known by Imperium officials as the "Gang of 3" finds their way across the core of the Imperium with the help of the Ine Givar Organization.  The Glimmerdrift Reaches resides on the trailing edge of the Imperium. The Krax Confederation exists within this sector of space.

Sir James Filmore, Sean Billman, and Titus Cromwell find their way to the Farwall system in the Even Subsector of the Glimmerdrift Reaches.  Slndn Hktar, the son of the Baron of Farwall, has brought the bedragled men to his family's estate.  A rumor has taken hold within the Imperium that these men are dead.  One problem with rumors is they are usually false. Such is the case with the "Gang of 3."  It is here on Farwall where the seeds of The 3 Fists Triumvirate are planted, watered, and cared for until they sprout into a powerful political apparatus.

1-1111

Discontent is growing on Farwall, as well as many other systems within the Krax Confederation.  Many believe officials of the confederacy are betraying their very own citizens.  Several contracts have been granted to Imperium Mega Corporations over those corporations that reside within the borders of the Krax Confederation.  Some powerful people within the Krax Confederation fear the Confederation will one day be absorbed into the Imperium.  This fear and concern came to a head when Baron Klyndn Hktar was arrested by the governing body of Farwell.  Evidence presented at his trial showed his involvement with a plot to secede governing authority of the Krax Confederation to that of the Imperium Government.  Baron Klyndn vehemently denied the accusations and claimed he was being framed.  He was found guilty and sentenced to death on 147-1111.  He was summarily executed the very same day.  The Baron's son, Slndn Hktar, pledged his undying loyalty to the people of Farwall and committed himself to defend the Krax Confederation's independence from the Imperium.  The uproar caused by the trial of Baron Klyndn and his involvement with the Imperium, forced the hands of government officials on Krax.  The ruling council on Krax voted unanimously with the ascension of Sldn Hktar to the position of Baron of Farwall.  Baron Sldn Hktar's first order of business was to establish a new political party on Farwall whose main purpose is to promote and defend the interests of the People of Krax.  That party was the Farwall Freedom Party.

1- 1113

The Farwall Freedom Party's first members were Sir James Fillmore, Sean Billman, Titus Cromwell, and Baron Sldn Hktar.  The party's message spread quickly and soon membership was growing at a rapid pace.  Confederacy officials on Farwall, as well as those on Krax, became concerned.  A growing hostility among the citizenry of the Krax Confederation with the Imperium government was becoming a real concern for these officials of the confederacy.  On 113 -1113, the Confederacy Ruling Council passed a resolution barring all members of the nobility throughout the Krax Confederation from membership to political parties on their respective systems.  This resolution became known as the "Imperium Dagger" to those citizens of the Krax Confederacy who despised the Imperium.  With the passing of this resolution, the "seed of civil war" had germinated.

1- 1114

Riots broke out on Farwall when news of the "Imperium Dagger" reached their ears.  Baron Slndn Hktar knew he was not in a position to oppose the hated resolution.  He resigned from the Farwall Freedom Party and made this now famous speech:

"It is now fully apparant where the hearts of our governing officials lie.  It is squarely in the camp of the Imperium.  I will honor this resolution as I officially withdraw my membership from the Farwall Freedom Party.  I do so not out of respect for the governing council on Krax, but out of my undying loyalty to the citizens of Farwall and to all freedom-loving citizens of the Krax Confederation.  I pledge my undying love for them and to them alone.  The traitors have made their bed with the Imperium.  They will have to lie upon it as well.  Loyal citizens will see this resolution for what it truly is.  A sellout to Imperium interests and a deep betrayal of the great people of the Krax Confederation.
My deepest desire is to see the rise of true leaders who will free us from the chains and shackles of Imperium oppression.  I believe those leaders are with us today.  My hope is they will take the initiative and lead us in the way of true freedom from Imperium slavery.  I believe they will."


249-1114
The Farwall Freedom Party officially disbands.


250 to 275 - 1114

The Shattered Planet Party (SPP) is formed and Sir James Fillmore, Sean Billman, and Titus Cromwell are elected "Leaders for life."


SPP Battle Flag




SOLO Campaign- Dean Team 4

SOLO Campaign-Dean Team Part 4

Current Adventure: Infiltrate
Date: 110 - 1120
Subsector/Sector Location: Tri-Empire/Glimmerdrift Reaches

Cast of Characters (Dean Team):
Dean Halvaard (Force Commander)
Character Reactions (SOLO p.18): Considers Keter an enemy.
Striker Anderson (Major)
Character Reactions (SOLO p.18):  Considers Dean a rival.
Jansen Trueblood (First Lieutenant)
Character Reactions (SOLO p.18):  Admires Kilgar.
Keter Lancel (Lance Sergeant)
Character Reactions (SOLO p.18):  Friendship with Dean through guilt.
Kilgar Plenson (Lance Sergeant)
Character Reactions (SOLO p.18):  Knows about Striker's gambling problem.
Kyle Rheimer (Lance Sergeant)
Character Reactions (SOLO p.18):  Likes to ridicule Jansen.


Free Use Pixabay/kalhh
110-1120  Negotiations with the Ginlenchy Concordance
Negotiations begin with the Ginlenchy Concordance (GinC) for contracted mercenary services provided by the Golden Company for any interested systems within the GinC.  The group meets with Verenson Kull, a diplomat for the GinC.
Verenson Kull is a staunch ally of the Imperium.  Most systems within the GinC are extremely nervous with the rise of the 3 Fists Triumvirate within the Republic of Krax.  Verenson believes the independence of the entire GinC is at risk.  He has known Dean Halvaard for many years and fully trusts him. Verenson assures the Golden Company representatives (Dean Team) this meeting is a mere formality.  The GinC is more than ready to sign the agreement with the Golden Company.
117-1120 The Deal is Done!
The contract is signed with great enthusiasm by all participants.  The official meeting ends on the first day, but the rest of the week was filled with relaxation and entertainment, courtesy of the Ginlenchy Concordance.  The team is refreshed, and ready to start its next mission.
Verenson Kull meets with the Dean Team in their private quarters at a villa near the Bakcyon startport.  He provides the group with documents for their new identities.  The first set of IDs has the Dean Team serving in the Ginlenchy Scout Service (GSS)  They will be serving as scouts aboard the GSS Hawk.  The second set of IDs has the Dean Team serving as crew members aboard a merchant ship.  The crew is scheduled to join the Far Trader, Free Enterprise, at Jeffer-Scott/Williamsburg/Glimmerdrift Reaches.  The Free Enterprise is scheduled to depart Jeffer-Scott on 229-1120, so the crew should have plenty of time to reach their destination.  Merchant ships often keep their regular schedules, but delays do occur.  The team will need to carefully monitor their progress to avoid any delays.  The Free Enterprise will not delay their departure for long, since free traders need to keep moving in order to make money.  Any extended delay by the Free Enterprise, apart from mechanical issues, will rouse suspicion.  Jeffer-Scott and Spadling are known to be infested with 3FT spies.
118-1120 The Mission Threatened
Dean decides to rid himself of an enemy by sending Keter Lancel back to Golden Company Headquarters with the newly-signed agreement.  The Dean Team meets to discuss the next phase of the mission, and Dean breaks the news to Keter.  Keter becomes  enraged and demands someone else should do it.  "You don't need me to be a delivery boy.  Send it the way documents like this are sent...THROUGH A COURIER!"  Keter began to visibly shake from his rage.  Dean quickly retorted, "You will do as you are ordered, Lance Sergeant!  I want this contract HAND DELIVERED, and it WILL NOT BE DELIVERED BY A COURIER! The information in this agreement will NOT fall into the hands of spies because of some errand boy's failure to properly guard its contents."  "Get someone else," Keter replied.  Dean's response was quick, "NO, I ORDER YOU TO DO IT AND THAT'S FINAL!" Keter stormed out of the room and headed back to his quarters.  Striker began to follow Keter, but Jansen replied, "Let him cool off for awhile." Striker agreed.  The rest of the team members concured, and began discussing their plans for infiltrating the Krax Republic.
After about twenty minutes, Keter returned to the meeting room holding a metal trash receptacle which contained the dying embers of a small fire.  Keter sat the receptacle down before the rest of the team and with an evil grin replied, "I just torched all of my original identity papers.  I'm not going anywhere!"  The entire team was speechless for a moment, then Striker responded, "What have you done?!"  At this point, the room erupted into a shouting match of curses, accusations, and insults.  After several minutes, the team members began to compose themselves.  "If you don't like it, too bad.  Maybe I'll report this whole mission to the media.  I am going back to my villa.  Later, losers" was Keter's response to the rest of the team members. The team stood there dumbfounded, as they silently contemplated the ramifications of Keter's threat.
The heat of the moment soon passed, and cooler heads prevailed. Dean contacted Verenson Kull to see if it was possible to have Keter arrested and secure him until Golden Company forces arrived and placed him into custody. Verenson's secretary informed Dean that he had just departed Bakcyon for a long-planned vacation to Aldrus (Tri-Empire/Glimmerdrift Reaches).  The team resumed its discussion on what to do.  Jansen and Kyle insisted Keter cannot remain a part of the team.  Striker and Kilgar were not as resistant to Keter remaining as Jansen and Kyle were, but both Striker and Kilgar believed something must be done.  After about an hour of discussion, the team reached a solution.  Dean will have to fire Keter.  Kilgar volunteered to return to Imperium space and deliver the contract to Golden Company Headquarters.  He would return to Bakcyon with the first contingent of mercenaries as soon as possible.
The group sent for Keter, and informed him of their decision.  Surprisingly, Keter had already resigned himself to this outcome and agreed to abide by their decision.  He turned to Dean and replied, "I agree with the team's decision, Commander.  I will honor it as well as my oath to the 4518th. I will remain on Bakcyon for the foreseeable future and contemplate my future."  Keter saluted Dean, turned, and left the room.  The entire Dean Team believed Keter would not betray them as he had threatened to do earlier.
119-1120 to 173-1120  Preparations for Next Mission
The Dean Team rests for a few more days, then begins training for the next leg of their journey.  The preparation is intense and requires training in scout ship duties as well as merchant duties.  The team feels confident their training will help them to pass as scout/merchant ship crew members.  The team hears and sees nothing of Keter.  Kilgar salutes his team members as he boards a transfer ship. This starship will take him back to Simulacrim where he will wait to board the Illustrious Star as it makes its way to Simulacrim , following its regular travel route.  It may be a long time before the team sees Kilgar again. It is  also possible they may never meet with him again.  Only time and good fortune will tell.