SECTION 8
Ulnar shuts off the computer summary of the sector and rubs his eyes, tired and more worried than ever. With the entire sector threatened by the alien armada and only a handful of ships to meet them with, he cannot be sure what to do. Should he rush to Thule, where the enemy is reported to be heading, or Baal, the most heavily populated world in the sector? Do the Ka’slaq know about the mineral wealth of Derron’s World? Perhaps they are lingering around S.C. 170, where their first attack took place.
Though the commander’s orders are supposed to be classified, news like the Ka’slaq invasion can’t be kept secret for long. If Admiral David Ulnar is seen as indecisive in the face of this crisis, it can’t help but injure the morale of his men. The Ulnar reputation, still so poor despite the redeeming heroism of men like John Star (born on Ulnar) and David’s grandfather Lars, is to blame for the delicate state of the men’s morale. Uncertainty, hesitation, defeat—any one of them can be a problem. Hotheads like Commodore Benbo, the recon wing commander, would be quick to exploit the slightest weakness on his part.
With a sigh, Ulnar leans forward again to flick on the computer screen and resume his work. He knows that he must start issuing decisive orders soon. Once more he plunges into reports and summaries, knowing well that his decision could be crucial to the safety of League and Legion alike.
Continue to examine material, and plan to take action. Map 1 is consulted as before (see section 2). Each time that this section is chosen, however, there is a chance of trouble. Roll two six-sided dice.
If the total rolled is the same or less than the fleet’s Morale value, there is no ill effect and the decision process continues uninterrupted.
If the roll is greater than the fleet’s Morale value, go to section 24.
To review the dispositions of Legion forces in the Ninth Sector, consult section 10.