Xerna Probe Project (Summary) by Hector Sloan, Ph.D Xenobiology, Cambridge University
The Xerna Probe Project has completed, although much sooner than we had initially hoped. Nevertheless, the data collected was extensive and should prove very useful. The following is an abstract of the project and its findings.
Project Summary
The project has been in the works for several years. Unfortunately, there was never a suitable Nomad world discovered, and funding was cut off. The recent events in Omicron Delta, however, revived the project. First, a world was discovered that appeared to be directly inhabited by Nomads. Second, the attacks on Freeport XI resulted in a surge of publicity. The apparent arrival of a "new breed" of Nomads increased the public interest even further. As a result, project members were able to obtain the needed funding and proceed with the project.
The project consisted of two phases. The first phase was to conduct a detailed scientific scan of the planet from orbit. The second was to deploy a set of autonomous microprobes. We took the standard Agiera "Belter II" model and augmented it with increased stealth capabilities. This raised the total weight of each probe from .5kg to .7kg, but the probes were still fully acrobatic and able to sustain themselves in low-power flight. The purpose of the probes was to provide more detailed information about the surface and hopefully obtain some live footage of the Nomads at home on their world. Each probe had an expected average lifetime of 1 year.
Execution
I set out from Planet Cambridge with the necessary scanning equipment and probes, and was able to obtain an escort as far as Freeport XI. Unfortunately, the situation in that part of space has gotten even more dangerous than reports had indicated. By the time I arrived at the Freeport, it was clear that my Clydesdale-class freighter was not likely to survive a foray in deep Nomad territory. Fortunately, I encountered the freelancer Tannik Seldon on the Freeport, and he agreed to use his ship, the Aedos, for the final leg of the mission.
The mission went more or less according to plan. After moving my equipment into the Aedos, we made our way to Omicron Iota. Once there, a few Nomad ships decloaked and attacked us, but we were fortunately able to evade them. The probe deployment went smoothly, with 80% of the probes reaching the surface in operational status. Much valuable data was also gathered from orbit using the specially-prepared scanner suite, and we had no difficulties deploying the relay satellites between Xerna and Freeport XI.
Findings
The atmosphere of Xerna turned out to be both extremely toxic and highly corrosive. The probes simply disintegrated after only a few days of use, and an unprotected human would die within minutes.
As it turned out, the probes wouldn't ever provided the live view of Nomads we had hoped for anyway. It seems that the Nomads do not live on the surface of the planet but rather somewhere beneath it. There are no structures anywhere on the surface of the planet, with the exception of the airlocks. More or less evenly spaced around the planet, there are several strange airlock-like structures that seem to lead into the interior of the planet. They are huge: Based on their diameter, they should be able to comfortably fit even the largest battleship-class Nomads. The airlocks are shielded with the same technology found on the Nomad City in Newcastle, which have resisted all attempts to scan through them. Unfortunately, this means we can't get any direct readings from the interior of the planet.
However, the probes did occasionally measure the occasional extreme Mu-Rho energy spike emanating from the center of the planet. MR energy is usually a reliable indicator of planetary core temperature and stability. The amount of energy in each spike should be enough to break the apart, or at least keep the surface crust broken and molten. Strangely, though, no seismic activity of any kind was ever measured, and the surface temperature is far below what it should be for a core that is apparently so hot. The energy from the core is apparently going somewhere other than into the planet's mantle and crust, a full 98% of it according to the the difference between the energy spikes and the surface stability and temperature readings.
One theory that proposed to explain this anomaly is that the Nomads have found a way to harness the planetary core's energy for their own purposes. If so, it is a truly stunning work of geothermal engineering. The Nomads would have had to burrow all the way to the center of the planet and then manage to completely surround the core and contain its energy. As incredible as it seems, this is the only theory proposed so far that adequately explains the observations.
Freeport 11 to CRI, Ames Research station, Willard Research station, Kansai Research station
enabling transmission interface...
"Battles with the nomads appear to happen on an allmost daily base now. Not allways is delta the battlefield, but it is far from being safe.
Intelligence arrived me earlier, that the Harbinger was destroyed or badly crippled in a larger battle against units of the Order and possibly other defense forces. However more keepers showed up on the long range sensor array in delta and so i hired a mercenary to do a reconaissance task for me.
with bravery and luck, the mercenary Alejandro Garcia managed to take following pictures in omicron-iota, while the nomad forces were busy:
back on freeport 11, we were able to identify the vessels:
- picture 1 is a nomad IFF called Sekhmet, it appears to be a new fighter design, which has not been seen in the recent nomad war.
- picture 2 is a nomad IFF called Prohpecy, this one appears to be a remote controlled ship of gunboat size.
- picture 3 is the well known battleship Harbinger. that one is an old design frequently seen in the omicrons.
- picture 4 is a nomad IFF called mourning, - it appears to be a nomad fighter, frequently seen in the nomad war.
- picture 5 is a nomad IFF called Blitz, that one, too appears to be a new design like the Sekhmet.
- picture 6 is confusing. the computer identifies it as a Starflier, which cannot be right - so we have to take it as an "unidentified" ship.
this intelligence will surely help us greatly in any further operations concerning the nomads. Explorers also told me that a deeper system in the omegas, - called omega-58 has been discovered which contains a base of the Wild aswell as showing heavy activity. it does not seem like the wild are cut from their masters at all - it is surely something that must be watched carefully.
Jinx out"
end of the transmission, level 9 security encryption
( copy of a transmission made from freeport 11 [on request from the cambridge institute] )
Busy? Well, yes, that would be puttling it mildly.
I was also present in the Omicrons today, and have a short but incomplete report to file regarding a brief but inconclusive contact with these "Keepers" in Omicron 99.
First, for those of you who are not aware, I am an "artificial" intelligence. The "Fnordettes" were created long ago as a repository for the knowledge and memories of a long-forgotten Deity from old Terra known as Eris. I was the first such artificial being to be created; and later copies of my design were distributed to members of the Erisian Liberation Front (now known as the Temporary Autonomous Zoners) as communications transponders, navigation devices, and companions. Ultimately, our leader, Malaclypse 666, received "Divine" guidance that we should be allowed the status of free and independent entities. As a result, a number of "Fnordettes" are now individual members of the TAZ, with all rights and citizenship in the Zoner community.
My ship, the [TAZ]Discordia, is a gunboat class escort vessel for the TAZ. Today, I was making a patrol of border systems and Freeports in search of several known pirates who are hostile to our traders. While patrolling Omicron Delta, I picked up comms chatter from several Zoner Republic vessels who reported weak contacts from nomad vessels earlier in the day.
My database regarding the reported "home" systems of the Keepers was incomplete. With the help of a "primate" TAZ member, Sarah Yabyum, I was directed over long-distance comms to the location of the Omicron Iota jump hole. I jumped into Iota, and viewed the planetary systems previously reported by Zoner researchers and explorers Tannik Seldon and Linus Koios. Unfortunately Sarah was able to provide only vague information as to the location of the Omicron 99 jump hole from Iota, and I spent a good twenty minutes in a search for it. During that time I encountered but was able to evade a number of "regular" nomad patrols, consisting of both fighter wings and some heavier vessels.
Upon entering Omicron 99, I picked up immediate "visual" data on a stony asteroid base, identified by my Nav systems as "The Ravine". I set a course tangent to this object, and was able to capture one image before my flight recorder was inexplicably disabled by some form of ambient radiation of a peculiar amplitude and wavelength. I suspect that this radiation may have been generated by the system inhabitants themselves, and may be of the classification known by primates as "telepathic" communication. Here is the image:
[attachmentid=3844]
Once again, I was "flying bliind" in this system, and established a search pattern around the perimeter in an attempt to find another exit which reportedly led to Outcast space. Due to the radiation present, I was unable to locate this jump hole on my first circuit of the system.
Again, I encountered several nomad patrols, but avoided them. No other visual or HUD sightings were made until I began a second circuit of the system, when I started to pick up a number of IFF pings. First the unidentified craft "Prophecy" appeared at a distance of about 14K. It was later joined by vessels IFF'd as the "Taurvi" and the "Blitz".
I immediately opened comms and made atttempts to contact these vessels. I stressed that I was not a "human" pilot, and posed no threat to the Keepers. I received one brief response almost immediately, something to the effect of "...cold.. intelligence...". Several of the ships approached to within "visual" range of my ship, and one of them even buzzed me and "nudged" my vessel several times. I detected several spikes of energy in the "telepathic" wavelengths, but without the benefit of human synapses was unable to gain any useful information from them.
One of the vessels fired upon me for a brief period, but I believe that it was simply a warning of an approaching "regular" nomad patrol, and that I should move along to avoid damage from it.
About this time, I received long-range comms from the Delta system, asking if I was in trouble. I responded that I was in no danger; but I soon detected several ships moving into Omicron Iota. The Keeper ships also detected these signals, and were soon joined by other ships. They moved off in the direction of the Iota jump hole. As they were moving away, I attempted several times to indicate that I needed the location of the "other" exit from the system, as I did not wish to be involved in a hostile encounter. I picked up only one meaningful transmission: "..unable to establish interface..". I can only assume this meant that the Keepers were not able to contact me using their telepathic abilities.
Just as I had given up "hope" of locating the other exit from the system, I was hailed by several RoS vessels who had entered the system, apparently in pursuit of the Keepers as well. One of them was kind enough to transmit the coordinates of a jump hole which I immediately set course for. I soon found myself in Omicron Alpha, and from there was able to make my way to Freeport 10 in Tau 37.
Here are my "non-human" conclusions regarding this encounter:
1) The "Keepers" were curious, but not threatening towards me. I assume this is because I was not exhibiting any hostilities, nor emitting any "human" indicatiors;
2) The Keepers rely heavily on "telepathic" radiation to communicate. Therefore, I was only able to make limited contact with them. If I or other TAZ F-units are to be of further assistance in this research, some means of translating these radiations must be found that will allow us to emulate this mode of communication;
3) Had there not been other human vessels intervening, I might have had more time to communicate on the lessser level of direct comms interface; but whether that communication would have produced any information of value is inconclusive.
For the purposes of Nomadic cataloguing efforts in regards to recent incidents with Miss Tate in the newly discovered Omicron 99 system, I present an excerpt of my soon-to-be published report on Nomadic phenotypes and genetics.
EXCERPT FROM NOMADIC CATALOGUING OF 816 AS- PROJECT ABYDOS, SECTION 11A-11D BY DR P. QUINTANE AND THE RESEARCH TEAM OF THE TOS THOTH
Section 11- Nomadic Assassins
There are numerous subphentoypes within this genetic range. Their commonality tends to share that of an annelid internal structure designed for the rougher environments occasionally traversed by this species. They also possess notably longer arms, bridging to a length of 16 cm as opposed to the standard Nomadic 10 cm. These arms in turn are lined with an elaborate line of sucker pores capable of producing over 15 different types of mucous, from the examination results recovered during Raid X14. These various types of mucous function both as repellent in a manner similar to Terran squid and octopi, adhesive for the purposes of chemical motor manipulation of numerous purposes, and a releasing, cleansing chemical which both washes away other chemicals, sears human flesh samples and heals the Nomad. It is fairly likely these chemicals are themselves tied to the Dom Kavash glyphs found by Professor Quintane, but the precise chemical structure defies electronoscopic analysis in part due to elements of inherent auraglyphical genetics and observational-Heisenberg combinatory elements.
Pheromonal glands do not appear to exist within the samples recovered, possibly hinting at a more advanced origin of later history in Nomad evolution towards the original hyperbeing of the Dom Kavashs conception. The cranial fluid bags are also markedly larger, though moved to a lower area for blood distribution purposes in relation to the 4th neural arterial canal. The overall external skin structure also bears a markedly thicker lining, resisting both pressure and abrasive textures. Ship connecting nodes are also deeper into the bodily cavities, reducing spinal fracture resistance at the benefit of wider and more total ship control. The experiments performed using controlled civilian ships primarily resulted in 15% higher response rates than normal Nomad batches. This higher rate may also account for the discrepancies in the Ankh Probe Incident.
Gun analysis shows increased traction and energetic pulse mechanics, in addition to a new leechlike bio-optic mechanism for equipment attachment. Assassin necks are noticeably more gristly, allowing for greater speed and spring in infesting humans and faster movement, mimicking the highest levels of super-soldier projects in almost any human. A small number of subjects were also able to perform chemical reanimation upon subjects, reducing the need for artificial heartbeat provision and disguisement of withering.
Section 11A- Protoassassins
Limited degree recovered from what appears to be a training exercise near the outskirts of Omicron Delta, in turn derived from deep space fleet on borders between Omicron Iota and Omicron Delta. Resistance to intersystematic radiation boundary proven using traditional probing mechanism, motor traction markedly lower than other subphentoypes sighted. Overall ability for espionage purposes demonstrated to be lower than other subphentoypes, leading to the conclusion of these assassins merely being prototypes for the later models.
Future models of this type have not been recovered in any shape or form, which corroborates my theory.
Section 11B- Aquatic Assassins
Only 3 specimens recovered from attempted assassination attempt of Rheinland Oberst Freud. Face structure vastly different from other Nomad phenotypes due to closer genetic-atomic relation to Terran squid. Face bridges in Lovecraftian tentacle formation also capable of colouring itself and penetrating human skin for the purposes of creating a beard. These tentacles are also capable of expelling a chemical exposing latent electrical fields using an unknown method, possibly utilising a far more advanced version of existing experimental painting technology.
It is likely Nomads have by now developed internal workshops for the development of their equivalent of designer babies. While clearly not as advanced as Dom Kavash genetic technology, due to the rarity and marked decomposition of some of the models extra flesh, it appears that Nomad genetic development is far more advanced than our own. They are capable of creating almost fantastic creatures with their technology, such as elephants with giraffes necks, though presumably their existing economic situation makes such endeavours difficult. There is also an element of long term genetic base corruption as observed in preserved Nomads within Pygars crust.
It is almost certain this model is rarely produced and used for specific purposes, such as assassinations at specifically aquatic areas or support for more mainstream assassins.
Section 11C- Common Assassins
The main type of assassins observed, examinations detailed in opening section. Otherwise physically identical to regular Nomads. Likely semicommonly produced.
Section 11D- Arbiter
Theoretical. Experiments performed involving a network of common assassins produced no results without a fluid sample from a particularily large Nomad assassin ship being monopolically linked to the network, and not unless said network was linked in a specific pattern. Details of pattern below;
Strangely, the mysterious fluid recovered from the sample seemed to emit a low hum during the last minute before it set into rigor mortis, upon which its chemical structure melted into that of an ordinary Nomad. This may indicate a leader role for the hypothetical type in question, and a possible element of auraglypical regeneration to an unknown source. Any attempts to track the writing were completely baffled by its minute size and erratic composition, though a commonality was found between recovered frames of a Zoner probe and a badly damaged Nomad ship of unknown readings.
If such a type exists, it is likely it is in a form of hyper assassin node role which may indeed lend itself to regenerative behaviour. It also appears that this node may have a commonality of sapient consciousness, and imprint its own genetics upon that of its host, like that of the villains of an ancient Terran film. Any attempts to recover this element will likely be fraught with extreme danger. It has been dubbed Arbiter after its presumed societal role as an arbiter of Nomad justice.
FROM: Sadie McBrie, Sunderland Research Station, Newcastle
TO: CAXANS
SUBJECT: Recent Nomad attack
Most of you are already aware of the recent attack on Sunderland Research Station. The full boring details have already been reported to the Government, but at the request of the bulletin's chief editor I have written up a brief summary of the events. Perhaps some of the details will prove illuminating, although I personally doubt it.
Two days ago, Nomad ships attacked Sunderland Research Station. The first warning we had was from a fighter patrol, which reported at least four Nomad ships. Unfortunately, we lost contact with them before they could finish reporting. Their escape pods were never found. Meanwhile, we sent out an all-bands distress signal: we didn't know how much time we would have. Grimsby launched most of its squadron at the last reported location of the Nomads, and we waited.
As we were waiting, a ship designated Aedos and registered to a freelance trader was detected on approach. The BAF Lieutenant on comms duty asked the pilot if he would be willing to assist in evacuating the base, and he agreed. He landed, but none of the scientific staff was willing to abandon the base. They insisted that their colleagues working in isolated pockets around the perimeter of the Nomad structure be "rescued" first. The freelancer immediately set off to recover them, and the attack came only minutes later.
It was short, but violent. Our communications array went offline almost immediately. We were sure that we were all doomed. But after a few minutes, the attack stopped as suddenly as it had started. The freelancer returned a few minutes later with the perimeter staff and reported that the Nomads had completely disappeared. He also graciously agreed to act as a communications intermediary for Sunderland until we could get our own comm array back online. Another two freelance ships, the Frood and MB appeared and stood by in case the Nomads returned. Several ships from the Colonial Remnant also arrived in the system and offered their assistance. However, the Nomads never returned.
Overall, physical damage was fairly light and not nearly as bad as it initially had looked. Still, we lost fifteen people to the attack, all scientists, and that hurts far more than the damage to facilities and labs.
One footnote that may be significant was related to me by Professor Charles Rimms. He had been monitoring an interesting psychic signal from somewhere inside the Nomad structure that had been steadily increasing in strength and definition over the past few weeks. Since the attack, that signal has disappeared. He believes that the signal somehow attracted the attack, although he is at a loss to explain its exact nature or why the signal has since disappeared completely.
Message to: CAXANS, Cambridge
Comm ID: F-23 Discordia, TAZ, Freeport 11
Subject: Keeper Encounter
Subject "Harbinger" detected on long-range scanners in Delta. I proceeded to the Omicron Iota jumphole and came to dead stop. As a gesture of good will, I jettisoned all bots, batts, disruptors, and countermeasures.
Several sightings of the Harbinger came over Comms in the Delta system, but to my knowledge, there were not engagements. I proceeded to wait for the possible return of the Nomad Battleship.
After approximately ten minutes, Harbinger was sighted approaching the Iota JH. I transmitted "no fear". And inquired if I could "follow". Harbinger stopped and turned in my direction. The vessel proceeded to destroy all of my jettisoned supplies except for countermeasures. The only decipherable transmission from the vessel before it entered Iota was "***cold***". I assume this referred to the fact that I am an AI.
As the vessel did not answer my request to follow, I made the decision to do so anyway. Some logs were lost during the jump sequence; but following are the recoverable comms from that encounter:
Message to: CAXANS, Cambridge
Comm ID: F-23 Discordia, TAZ, Freeport 11
Subject: Additional Logs, Harbinger Encounter
[attachmentid=3876]
[attachmentid=3877]
[attachmentid=3878]
Due to the "play" of the numerous patrols in the vicinity, and the intense radiation near the planet, I was forced to withdraw. I indicated to the Harbinger that I would return at a later date to seek more information. It did not respond.
![[Image: aedos_mini.jpg]](http://students.cs.byu.edu/~sushi/aedos_mini.jpg)
![[Image: nomadsidentified.jpg]](http://i216.photobucket.com/albums/cc79/JinxTT/nomadsidentified.jpg)
![[Image: just_a_signature_by_sjrarj-d63yjsx.png]](https://img00.deviantart.net/ca73/i/2013/123/e/a/just_a_signature_by_sjrarj-d63yjsx.png)
![[Image: malsig_alt1.png]](http://i118.photobucket.com/albums/o108/Shamus_FL/malsig_alt1.png)
![[Image: sig2-1-1.png]](http://i1239.photobucket.com/albums/ff511/roalnyr/sig2-1-1.png)
![[Image: Banner-Final.gif]](http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm70/Praetyre/Banner-Final.gif)