Galactic Colonization

[Screech]

Something had gone wrong for F.E.U apon their launch. The release clamps for their pod had misfired, leaving them still aboard. It took a short while for them to get fixed and, by the second orbit, the pod was launched successfully.

The journey to the surface wasn't quite as rough as could have been expected, even though there was still some buffering in the descent. The landing was worst as everything lurched forward as the impact with the ground braught the pod to a sudden halt.

The hatches were blown open, and the personnel started to disembark. The scene that met them was one of a low, flat landscape. It looked fairly fertile, but irrigation would undoubtedly be required to get the best crops. Clost to the landing site were a small collection of prefabricated buildings that housed the drop beacon, small power generator, and a number of basic ameneties for a small number of men. Off to the east, and not too far, was the sea, it's waves lazilly lapping apon the shore. There wasn't much to speak of to the south. Mostly marshland with a river running through in the far-off distance. Far away to the west was Stargazer's landing point, with GEM about the same distance north.

All in all, not too bad.

Mr McClure, the construction engeneer, was already directing the construction of the more basic structures around the central prefab, as David stood and survayed the land that would be his new colony.

"Hmmm. I wonder just what is in that sea. Could be useful stuff...."

 

[macmillian]

Gem Landing site # 1 B;

Andrew; Robert, have your men checked out the the animal that was killed..

Robert; Yes. We brought it back for the scientists to look over. We also were able to secure some of the vine that attacked one of the scientists. The scientist is in the infirmary. Th rest of the secienists helped identify more of the vines and we have marked them off and posted the land around them as off limits to all personnel.

Edward; Nothing to report yet, us scientists are still at work on both items. we will probably have answers within hours. Mean while I suggest that we keep everyone close and tighten up security. Till we Know, let's play it safe.


Andrew; OK. Get all our engineers together by the back ramp of the landing pod. Robert, you stregthen up all four approaches and prepare to hold. Set up defense in depth. Use as many of the expendables as you need and any of the colonists, except those with building skills. We will keep you fed and supplied from here. Take one division of engineeers to help you construct your positions.

Next; I want this plateau transformed in to an airstrip. A completed runway and a control and operations center. Build it out of rock and steel and to make it strong, very strong. Service buildings and revetments. I want the miners to drill a shaft down to the large cavern that lay at the bottom of the plateau and in the north wall . We have supplies, equipment and some of our people there too. We will need another way to get the people out, other than to climb the north wall in times of danger.


Agusta Perez; The radios and communication and a secured net is ready. All we have to do is get it to Erin Nova. I would rather carry it over then try to fly it in one of the smaller birds right now. They are not really ready to go. I'll take a patrol and head on over to our Irish Friends. I take with me what information we have and get what they have. Maybe we both can make sense out of all this.

Robert; OK, take two ATV's and two tracked land rovers and twenty five armed guards and the tech;s that will be staying with Erin Nova. Oh yea! Take on cargo van too. For the equipment. Leave just before sunrise and we can watch you for about five to seven miles from our vantage point.

Andrew; Robert, Set up a fifth position outside the cavern and run daily patrols out on the plain up to the foot hills. Survey the entire area from the foot hills to the plateau and from the river to our west to the edge of the forest east. Mark water sites, trails, and anything else that your group finds. Relay all information. Make it as through as you can.

Andrew to himself: Large Flying Birds!!, Carnivorius Plants!! What else have we not been told about this planet. Why have we been landed here where everything looks good and fine. A man injured, not killed, good luck. MAYBE? As soon as communications are set with Cahir and Erin Nova, then maybe we can figure this out.. I hope Cahir has good news and not more bad or mystries. Only time will tell. And time may just be too short. I am becoming more wary every day. I hope this is just being over protective of the people in my care and to my allies to our east.....

Our engineers and the construction crews are doing a excellent job. They are working well together and more then half the women have joined in and are helping with the lighter jobs and using their various skills. I am proud of my group. All of them, even down to our bots.

 

[macmillian]

GEM board of directors meeting @ approx. 4:00 am

The members of the board arrived shortly after they were summoned by Andrew Grant. They filed in and poured cups of coffee and took their seats. When everyone was seated, Andrew closed the door and walked to the head of the table.

Andrew; Last night we had made preperations for Agusta Perez to take a party and make the trip over to Erin Nova. I thought of that choice long and hard and decided that Agusta was in charge of our air assets and she should be here to oversee that project. I should be the one to lead this mission. All the other plans would be kept in place and work should continue and be completed as quickly as possible. Edward would be in control and Robert would see to the security. The survey of the northern plain should be finished by the time I return. I will leave at 6 am as planed. QUESTIONS ?

Edward; No questions and I understand the reasons for you going. BUT! I do not feel that you should be gone at a time like this. You are our leader and you should be here.

Robert; There is no question that you should be here. I should take this mission.

Andrew; No, you are needed here to make preperations and complete the defense and security of our entire party. That is your area Robert and that ia why I didn't choose you.

Agusta; I agree with you on this Andrew. We need to get our air assets up and flying and that is my job. Communications is nearly completed and the birds are sending back information and we will soon have them giving us more data.

Bishop Martin; Go with God and we all will pray for your safe return.

WrencH; Aye. We can handle things here. You go and get us set with Erin Nova and bring back that keg of stout on your return.

Shorty; Yeah, you go. We can get along for awhile and even maybe we can get the road finished from the top of plateau to the base and the shaft to the cavern below. Yeah! You go and get done what has to be done.

Andrew; Thank you. OK, Now lets roll them out and start the day shift early and keep them all at it. I want this place secured and the runways completed. Then give eveyone a break if I am not back by the time your done.

Robert had done a good job of selecting my escort. Some of his best men and some of our own colonists too. Twenty five in all plus the six techs that were to remain with Erin Nova to help and train Cahir's men. The two ATV's led out with one tracked vehicle close behind. The rest followed. I rode in the second track with the commander and followed the progress of our small force. We estimated that it would take two hours to reach Erin Nova's boarder and another two or three to reach Cahir. It would have taken less time if we sped through the distance, but we were not going to take a chance and get caught out in the open. We wanted to get there safely and in one piece. So we moved forward slowly and safely. the clock was running and I hoped that there was really no need for speed.

The sun was now up for about two hours as we crossed into Erin Nova's territory.

 

[rengadeirishman]

Cahir was pleased, his hall had been built and settlement was comign along magnificently. He had worked out the first draft of the laws of the land, and rituals for rites of passage, knighthood, and preparation for war. The church had also been built, while the cathedral was being worked on. His men had surveyed all the land and captured some of the large lizards and had been begun trying to domesticate them, and use them as warbeasts and beasts of burden. Forges were up and running, wild pigs were being domesticated, and all was write with the world. Breweries and stills were working, and his people were coming together.
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"Halt! you are on the land of Cahir, king of Erin Nova. State your business." Donnchadh said to the GEM representatives. His fireteam had been on patrol and sighted the convoy and had moved to intercept.

 

[macmillian]

The Land of Erin Nova:

Andrew Grant stepped out of the tracked vehicle, leaving his weapons inside. He held up his hand and signaled and told his group to stand down.

Andrew turned to the man that spoke. " I am Andrew Grant of GEM, A Friend and Alley of your King. We come in peace and are seeking an audience with Cahir. " He then stepped forward and offered his hand to the man who spoke. " Hello, I am Andrew Grant and I am please to meet you. And your name sir? "
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Back on the plateau, the miners broke through and into the underground cavern. The miners celebrated the completion of there first real job ( that being of mining ) .

Work was proceeding all around the plateau. On it, Next to it, Inside it. The engineers had already mapped out the airstrips and now the grading equipment was hard at work clearing and leveling those designated areas.

Robert had completed the security and defense positions and was satisfied with the end results. He had also sent a twenty man patrol out towards the river west of the plateau. The patrol consisted of eight scientists and their security force. He also sent several five man screening patrols south from the plateau as far as the river.

 

[macmillian]

The Land of Erin Nova:

Andrew Grant stepped out of the tracked vehicle, leaving his weapons inside. He held up his hand and signaled and told his group to stand down.

Andrew turned to the man that spoke. " I am Andrew Grant of GEM, A Friend and Alley of your King. We come in peace and are seeking an audience with Cahir. " He then stepped forward and offered his hand to the man who spoke. " Hello, I am Andrew Grant and I am please to meet you. And your name sir? "
--------------------------------------------------------------------------

Back on the plateau, the miners broke through and into the underground cavern. The miners celebrated the completion of there first real job ( that being of mining ) .

Work was proceeding all around the plateau. On it, Next to it, Inside it. The engineers had already mapped out the airstrips and now the grading equipment was hard at work clearing and leveling those designated areas.

Robert had completed the security and defense positions and was satisfied with the end results. He had also sent a twenty man patrol out towards the river west of the plateau. The patrol consisted of eight scientists and their security force. He also sent several five man screening patrols south from the plateau as far as the river.

 

[rengadeirishman]

Donnchadh looked at the men hard, studying them "You seem to be sincere." he said to them. Giving his men a wave, they lowered their weapons. "I am Donnchadh, Marchwarden of the eastern border. Welcome to Erin Nova." he said. "This is Padraig, Rian, and Rohan, my fireteam. We will escort you to Dun Loaghaire and the the hall of Cahir." His men moved to their vehicle, "You will follow us."

 

[macmillian]

Travel toCahir and Dun Loaghaire;

Andrew; Glad to meet you Donnchadh, Marchwarded of the eastern boarder. We will indeed follow you to your Lord, Cahir.

I turn and give the order to mount up and prepare to follow our new escort.

"Donnchadh" I spoke out. " do you want to ride with us or would you like me to join you? Either is acceptable to me!

 

[rengadeirishman]

"With all due respect Lord Grant, I would prefer if you rode with us. If it comes to combat, my duty would be to protect you above your companions. Your men may follow behind."

 

[macmillian]

Erin Nova;

I called Captain Hill over and introduced him to our new escort. I told him to follow their lead and they would see us safely to our destination.

Andrew; " Donnchadh, May I request that I be permitted to carry my own weapons?" I spoke to Donnchadh and I will have my captain bring them here to me.

 

[rengadeirishman]

"As you wish" Donnchadh said. "Lets move on."

 

[macmillian]

I sent Capt. Hill back to our tracked velicle for my weapons. He returned quickly and handed me my webb belts which I put on. Next he handed me a sword in a scabbad and belt. I slung my rifle on my shoulder and carried my sword.

Donnchaadh looked surptised when Capt. Hill handed me the sword. It was not the ceramonial sword that Cahir had sent me, but a sword meant for battle. I walked quickly ove to their vehicle, so we could continue as soon as possible.

"Marchwarden, we are ready. We can leave on your command." I said to Donnchadh. "Where do you wish me to be?"

 

[rengadeirishman]

"You can sit down anywhere lad." Donnchad said taking the captains chair. He gave the order and they started off "Do you know how to use that thing boyo?" Donnchadh asked, pointing to Andrews sword.

 

[macmillian]

" THE SWORD "

I look long and hard at Donnchadh, The Marchwarden, trying to decide if he is serious or not. I feel he is quite serious. "Why yes I can. I haven't had much practice these past few years. But, yes I know how to use it and I will also say quite well" I give a smile to my host. I ask him if he would like to see the sword and I am prepared to let him examine it.

" Tell me what you think, it has been in our family for many years. We, My brothers and I are very proud of it and of our family" I watch the man to see how he will react to what I have said.

The convoy moves slowly on.

 

[rengadeirishman]

"Yes i would like to see it." Donnchadh said taking the sword and unsheathing it. "It is well taken care of, my compliments." He said weighing its balance and examining its blade "I trust you sharpen and clean it yourself? for every swordsman knows it is bad luck to let another man do so."

 

[macmillian]

" Yes I do take care of it myself. As I said, it has been in the family for many years." , I replied to Donnchadh. I see sir, you are a good judge of weapons. But, may I ask, " How is your judgement of the man that carries it ?'

We slowly moved on over slightly rolling hills with the river to our south and woods to the north. I observe quietly as Donnchadh examines the blade and inspects all the aspects of such a fine sword. Yes he knows fine weapons and probably knows how to use them. Even before he answers my question, I think I know his answer. " YES "

I like this man. He is direct and but thoughful, he reflects the strength of the man he serves. I will be sure to let Cahir know how I feel about this man and all the courtesies he has shown me.

 

[rengadeirishman]

"You are to be made a Knight of St. Patrick are you not?" Donnchadh said "You and your brothers. Are ya scottish boyo?"

 

[macmillian]

Andrew Grant; " Yes , That is correct. My brothers and I are to be installed in the knights of St. Patrick as soon as we can find time to do the ceremoney." I replied. "And you are also correct as to my heritage. My family was highland folk and were allied with the Campbel's almost a century ago."

Is it much further to your settlement. It has been close to two hours since we left the frontier. I am growing a bit nervous as time passed. I was hoping we were nearing the end of my journey.

 

[rengadeirishman]

"Aye, i figured you for a scotsman by your blade, the basket sword is a fine weapon. Well you'll be welcome enough, we irish say that the scots are the irish who couldnt swim, as long as you have no love for the crown of the saxons." Donnchadh said, those last words dripping with disgust. "We should be nearing Dun Laoghaire shortly."

 

[macmillian]

Andrew Grant; "Thank You Donnchadh, Our clan fought when they threw the English out. My broyhers each have a sword similar to this one. Captain Hill is usually my sparing and training partner." We talked the rest of the way into Dun Loaghaire and now I know my estimate of this man was right. I would be proud to call him friend.

I had it called right, Cahir was between five and six hours from the plateau. We had entered the woods and I knew we were near.

 

[rengadeirishman]

They rode into Dun Laoghaire, and parked next to Cahir's Hall. "Welcome to Dun Laoghaire, Lord Grant." Donnchadh said "How do you like our town?"

 

[macmillian]

Andrew Grant;

I had looked around as we entered the town of Dun Loaghaire and I was mildly impressed at the progress and skill and speed with which the people of Erin Nova has shown in the erection of the town.

"Donnchadh" I said,"It is a very nice town, your people are building" It will become even better as time goes by. I compiment you and yours on a fine job. I stood up beside the vehicle and streched. It was a long ride and my muscles needed to be streched.

I swung the blade over my shoulder and fastened the strap holding across my shoulder and back. I would rather have carried the sword by my side, but in anothers camp it would rather be carried in a lesser defensive position.

 

[macmillian]

GEM's Base Camp.........The Plateau.


Edward and Robert Grant stood in the observation post on the southern rim of the plateau and slowly watched two more of the flying animals (we had not put a name to them yet). They circled the wide plain but did not come near the plateau. After awhile they flew south and disappeared over the horizon.

"How are the defense positions coming along?" Edward asked Robert, and continued. "I hope our brother is OK and we will hear from him shortly?"

Robert turned towards his younger brother and said that Andrew is a big boy and can take care of himself. As for the communications, Agusta assures me that she had sent some of her best people to Erin Nova and as soon as they can, they will have the radio up and running. Speaking of Agusta, she informed me that all our air assets have been unloaded and are now ready to fly. The revetments are completed and the aircraft are safley tucked away. They have ben armed and will be ready when the airstrips are done.

They both turned around and scanned the plateau. The engineers were very busy and the runways and parking areas were near completion. The control and operations center was finished and the communications equipment was being installed. The pod was no longer in plain sight having been camouflaged with walls of stone and debris cleared from the runways. The area looked like it was always part of the plateau.

The farmers took all the livestock down the main road and set up corrals and pens to hold the thier animals at the base of the plateau. They built some sheds and leantos for protection. There was a small pond and after the scientists checked it out, they used it for water for the animals and also made a duck and goose pond. There was a small flat and level area nearby and so they went to work preparing the soil.

GEM was moving ahead. Everybody was working and the base camp was becoming stronger and better with each passing hour. The patrols were going out on the north plain and the exploring and mapping was progressing faster then they had hoped for.

Another day was drawing to a close and all seemed right with this word. Edward looked up at the sky and said to himself "Maybe".

 

[rengadeirishman]

Donnchadh and his men escorted Grant to the front doors of the hall. Donnchadh on vanguard with Rian and Rohan on either side and Padraig bringing up the rear. As they approached the door, two big guards crossed their spears in front of it. "Who goes in by here?" they said. Donnchadh rolled his eyes, for they each knew him perfectly well. "Donnchadh, Marchwarden of the eastern border and his men bring forth Lord Andrew Grant for an audience with the High King." "Proceed" They walked into the throne room and saw Cahir in his throne flanked by his everpresent guards, Cormach and Seamus, and his aide Fionn. "Andrew!" Cahir said rising from his seat "A pleasure to see you once more." he said nodding to servants who laid out a table big enough for six men "beer and pork lads." he said to them and they nodded. "Donnchadh you have done well, please you and your men have a seat. Andrew, care for beer?"

 

[macmillian]

DUN LOAGHAIRE

I followed Donnchadh through the door after passing the guards outside. Cahir called out his welcom to me and my escort.

Touching a knee to the floor and bowing, "Your Majesty", I said and rose. "Yes I am very glad to see you too, my friend, and a beer would be just the right thing." Giving him a large grin.

"Donnchadh, thank you," and I held out my hand. "Thank you for everything. I hope to see you again."