Rise of the Second Wave

[Eldan]

Aaaaand welcome back to Galaxy News Network, the voice of Humanity, 24/7 live, here on the Hypernet! This is Sergio Delponte, and these are today's headlines.


In the Eden (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showpost.php?p=7873579&postcount=68) system, crime rates are increasing as a still unidentified mafia syndicate seems to be abusing the open nature of the native population to infiltrate clan structures. Reports indicate that the syndicate is using the bountiful Eden system to farm and harvest a new biological drug called Hypno, distributing it in the population and smuggling it to other second wave worlds.

The Evolved of Sharpi (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showpost.php?p=7874971&postcount=77) continue their course of hostility towards the galaxy at large, but there now seems to be a change in the tone of communications after the ships SAS** Standing United and SAS Peace through Prosperity have gone into a parking orbit at the outermost reaches of the system. In accordance to the Sirius Declaration, the ships are ready to lend assistance to underdeveloped colonies in need of humanitarian aid in exchange for signing the democratic White Charta.First reports indicate that up to 50% of the small population, living in abysmal conditions on the surface of a near-uninhabitable planet, are ready to sign the charta against the will of the central theocracy in exchange for the standardized orbital habitat modules and food supply offered by the aid mission.

In the Imperial Republic of Helios (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showpost.php?p=7869213&postcount=57)tensions are rising between a the crew of the trade ship CAS* Forbidden Fruit and native authorities. Since the malfunction of one of only two large antimatter plants last week, the Forbidden Fruit has been stranded in the outer reaches of Eden, unable to restore their fuel depots. Captain Tezuka claims that the bureaucratic authorities are stalling their departure on purpose, to prevent them from selling their valuable cargo in the second wave system of New Virginia before rival crews. Citing corrupt officials and needlessly obstructive bureaucracy, Tezuka accuses the authorities of having accepted bribes by these rival crews.
Tekuza has further gone on record stating that, unless his ship is refuelled immediately, he will use his contacts in the Centauri high council and the First Wave Trade League to economically isolate Helios. We will talk with native authorities on the subject later.

There are still no news from the crew of the scoutship EAS*** Bridging Infinity after an automated distress beacon was intercepted. The ship was on a routine contact mission to Perun system (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showpost.php?p=7866758&postcount=46), a still isolated civilisation on the eastern fringe of settled space, first colonized before the advent of Alcubierre drives. Eridani and Sol have dispatched a response fleet to investigate claims of piracy or miltary action in the system.

Economy News from the sublight swarm known as the Wanderers. (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showpost.php?p=7865395&postcount=40) After steering their ships into the Garibaldi cluster, an area of space densely populated by second wave civilisations and at least one recently discovered first wave world, they have been had their request for mining operations and refueling at the local star turned down by not one, but three separate systems. While the swarm is in no dire need for any vital commodity, base metals to be mined from asteroids are increasing in price among the ships of the swarm and it has been said that repairs have to be done in increasingly improvised ways. Renowned Economist Mashhur Kamil Antoun predicts that the prices for carbon nanomaterials, plasteel, copper and silicon will increase up to 30% above the human space standard in the next two months.

Disturbing news from the wartorn Hegemony of Regala. While automated combat drones still hold the surface, it seems that a new type of drone has been spotted with increasing frequency. The new robot, typed "Bunkerbuster" seems to not only carry heavier weaponry than conventionally sighted drones, but also seems to seek out human settlements instead of just targeting nearby civilians. Analyses seem to suggest human intervention: drones were re-fitted and reprogrammed with quite some skill by an unknown party.

The small second wave mining outpost of Mercado has issued a statement that they were forced to quarantine the recently arrived Perseus Flotilla (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showpost.php?p=7860442&postcount=33) after an outbreak of the highly infectious and, as of yet, incurable viral disease dubbed vanHeumen's Disease. Perseus scientists assured us that the disease will soon be under control, but reports seem to indicate that the population of the flotilla dwindled dramatically in the first wave of infection and may indeed be nearing the minimum numbers necessary for a genetically stable breeding pool.

The Constellation of the Cantons of Gamellan (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showpost.php?p=7851104&postcount=16) is facing a massive pirate problem as a newly arrived bubbleship, the SS Cut-throat has dispatched great numbers of small cruisers and scattered them in the inner asteroid field. The Cut-throat itself, apparently the recently stolen CAS Not Meant to Know under a new name, seems to be in such a bad state that experts doubt it will ever move again. In an anonymous statement from the cruiser fleet, which since then has been praying on small transport ships in the system, a woman calling herself the captain of the fleet said the following:
"Well, personally, I like it here. These people don't have the faintest idea how to defend themselves, and we're more than happy to take away some of their surplus resources."

In more economic news, it seems that the Solaris Alliance (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showpost.php?p=7877995&postcount=85) is facing economic collapse as their traditionally small economy is flooded by the newly available cheap products and goods from core worlds and second wavers alike. So far, the population is calm, but unemployment is on the rise and inflation increasing. While survey done on the streets seem to indicate that the population is mostly content with their situation, many are debating emigration to richer systems.

The Order of the Black Star (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showpost.php?p=7844225&postcount=10) continues to alienate all potential allies with their outlandish and radical genetic treatments and utter refusal to sign the Centauri Protocol for a controlled development of biotech. High Councillor Jia Li Lai of Pan-Jovia, Sol, has gone on record saying that:
"The Order of the Black Star continues to be what their ancestors were centuries ago: freaks of technology. Their research and it's implementation are deeply disturbing and a perversion of all ideals of good science."
It has been said that the Sol council is currently considering allowing a military "police action" against the Order, to be carried out by another second wave system.

The star Belphagor, home to the planet Hephaestus (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showpost.php?p=7841959&postcount=5), has shown extraordinarily strong solar wind, causing numerous problems on the surface. The geomagnetic storm associated with the blast has hit the surface three hours ago and will most likely stay in effect for several more days. While radiation levels remain save on the planetary surface itself, the cog authorities have issued a warning for all operators of spacecraft not sufficiently shielded that the shockwave of charged particles may contain sufficient radiation to be immediately lethal.
Furthermore, most electronic systems and power grids throughout Belphagor have been disrupted or even destroyed and all conventional electromagnetic transmissions from and to Hephaestus have been stopped. Economic damage will in all likelyhood be enormous, but exact numbers can not be provided until the end of the storm.

In their recent attempts at expanding inner system culture and values to the outer worlds, the council of Pan-Jovia has now set their eyes on Tawfret (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showpost.php?p=7840750&postcount=4). Speaker Ray Daigneault:
"It is unacceptable that the Tawfret system continues to stand against everything Pan-Jovia has worked for in the last centuries. We stand for a responsible economy, where every corporation does it's best for the moral and economic benefit of the entire society. Meanwhile, Tawfret flaunts it's lawlessness. The system has become a cesspit of murderers, criminals, of drug syndicates and weapon cartels, and the First Wave simply can not tolerate such a haven for crime."
While votes in the council are still outstanding, it seems that the public vote is in favour of severe sanctions and potential military action against Tawfret. Brigadier General Riku Muurinen of Eridani High Command has issued a statement claiming that they would be willing to support such an action if necessary.

In the Sovereign Alliance, (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showpost.php?p=7840700&postcount=3) a new cult is spreading rapidly. The so called Disciples of the Grey Codex are using illegal biomodifications which are rumoured to originate in other systems. Their agents, which are apparently infiltrating the government, are outfitted with biological suicide systems, so that no single disciple has been captured alive. In an anonymous message, the Disciples are threatening to unleash a bioengineered plague on the population unless the system's government is dissolved and each planet made into an autonomous nation.

And finally, for today: food shortage Bowman (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showpost.php?p=7840408&postcount=2) system. After the power plants of the central hydroponics stations of the asteroid belt of bowman failed, food depots threaten to run out. Many captains are already severely rationing the available food, and the population seems to be close to openly protesting against the horrible living conditions.


And now: the long-awaited second part finale of the new season of Doctor Who: "Shona".


*Centauri Alcubierre Ship
**Sirius Alcubierre Ship
***Eridani " "

[The_JJ]

The Council Member sneered at the video screen. "Our economy isn't 'traditionally small,' it's bleeding wartorn. The cheap goods weren't just 'flooding in,' they are coming in because the war is over. And most of the problem is, in fact, the transition away from a war time economy." This was a military man.

"And people aren't thinking of leaving, we're thinking of expanding the New Sicily station," said one of the cultural officers.

Another Council member held his hand out for silence. "The outsiders get the details wrong, but they're not wrong in the gist. We need to gear ourselves properly for an export economy. We've resourses to mine, lightships to carry, and the peace and stability to move these things through." This was an economic Councilor speaking. The rest of the Council nodded, and one by one signed off, leaving the number crunchers too it. Such did the Council operate. "Let's start with attacting a few foriegn investors. Safe sources. Task the lightships to export to... these systems mainly. Some tariff increases, but within the limits of normal policy. A trade war won't help us here."

"Mostly, we're looking to up exports, balence the trade deficit. Agreed? Excellent. You know how to handle the details. I nominate Council member 32 to run oversight and call meetings. Agreed? Excellent."


1= minus, 2 neutral, 3 plus.

Resourse (+2) action, with a +1 synergy from Leadership:
[roll0] [roll1] [roll2] [roll3] +3 Total: +2

Attempting to shore up the economy.


Meanwhile, the Solarian media reacts much as the General had, assailing the outside world for attacking their ingrity and, just as fervently, attacking any Solarian that would prove the outsiders right by considering emigration.


Unity (+3) action, modified by previous action (-1):

[roll4] [roll5] [roll6] [roll7] +2 Total: +0 barring aspect help.

Attempting to quash talk of emigration or even unrest. Modified by my high Culture score or either of my aspects?

GM:
Really? 3 Culture, 3 Unity, and 2 Aspects relating to undue fanatisism and xenophobia, and I'm facing threats of emigration? Bah, you're the boss.

[nolispe]

The JJ, can you clear your inbox?

[Kol Korran]

Erica Brium, the Voice of Many sighed as she saw Rierden Jasmon, head of internal affairs, as well as her lover, coming forth with an angry frwon on his lovely face. "Please, don't tell me I-told-you-so".

"I told you so!" said Rierden Jasmon. "making us known to outsiders was bound to bring trouble! we have all kind of "merchants" and "diplomats" visiting Eden. they are but a few, but even so they bring unwanted influence! this mind corrupting drug, this... Hypno, blanks the mind of our youth after a few uses. and this is just the first of influences of outsiders! damn you Erica!"

Erica smiled, amused at the anger her lover exhuded. part of the reason she loved him. "the path brings challanges always, to man, woman and nation. we have expected something to happen, we'll just have to rise to the challange. you needn't fret to much- more will come. more than either you or me even imagine... deal with it, invoke the Jasmonite scriptures, and call for the clan heads to strengthen the teachinsgs of the path, reliance on your own experiences and senses. but track down those responsible for this plague of the soul, and bring swift justice to them. make it unprofitable, both in terms of market, and risk, for this operation to continue on." Erika rose, and started walking towards the major communication room.

"How does it go wit hour other project, the great resort and commerace hub? i still think it will just bring troubles upon us!" Rierden ventured. "of course you do, but we've discussed this a thousand times before! we must takes risk, and the universe must get to know of Eden. maybe that will enlighten them."

Erica held her own doubts to herself, as leader she must appear strong, resolute in their way, but in her mind she intoned "in the ever twisting path we walk, between light and shadow, storm and calm. choose the path carefully"

"let me send my message now, you go take care of the Hypno drug, and the... other project, at least you like that one" she msiled coyly at him. "and try not to be too late tonight, the path calls for some relaxation as well, even if short timed."

Rierden turned and left.


crack down on the hypno drug:
Leadership +2,
linked attribute culture +1 (my people's belief work against the drug's purpose, and we call for the clan head to emphasise these aspects of the twisting path. see my post)
two actions is -1
and i'm tagging my aspect "spiritual resiliency" for +2 ( the people gather together to fight this "alien" plague that fell down on them, learning the lessons of solidarity from it.)
totla modifiers: +4, added to 4d3-8 is 4d3-4
lets roll
4d3-4

-------------------------

A message is sent to the various factions, including first wave and Sol. it is sent to almost any communication post available. in it there are several beautifull women and men, all angelic like in appearance, which perform a sort of an elaborated extremely sensual and eye captivating dance, with one of the group breaking up every so often to speak a sentence or two. a hauntingly beutifull melody sounds in the background and vivid color patterns surround the room.

"Greetings fellow settlers of the Cosmos. long have we all been divided. yet here on Eden we believe that there is a place for any perspective, a reason for any path, a room for everyone. In Eden we welcome you, to a new fabulous center of culture and commerce, a resort of matter and spirit, in which you can enjoy the bounty of Eden, as well as her supreme entertainment, artistic, spiritual and influential wealth.

we welcome people of all nations for either trade or giving inspiration. come and see the glory of the paradise world, and share in it's splendour. also come and meet the people of other nations, in a secure and neutral territory.

Then Erica steps in front of the others, and they form and form different patters, seemlingly as that of a sun behind a twisting path, all behind her

"to the nations leaders and people of power, i welcome you as well as your people. we wish to trade resources on a larger scale with you, or create works of culture to inspire your people to great things. what we ask of you is to get to know you better, and maybe allow your people to know us as well. come, and let the joys of eden heal your worries away."

there is a great unoffensive light rising, and chorus singing in the background as the message fades


create the "resort of Eden" tmeporary aspect. this should basically enable other factions to tag this aspect for culture, resource or maybe other thing (for the resourcefull), i i may use it for diplomacy or other stuff (trading with nations for bigger influences). we'll see
it's importent to note that this calls for both the "common people" (merchants, fleet people, and more) and nation leaders, including first wave and Sol...
can i use a fate point to make it a permenant aspect?
lets see modifiers: diplomacy and cuture for +3 (any way you look at it)
-1 for second action
and i'm tagging my aspect of "the all encompasing path" for +2. again i get
4d3-4
4d3-4
Kessler: i know this is similar to your idea, but in honesty i must say i had thought of it independently, i just thought the mechanics are different. :smallamused:

[nolispe]

Memenarch rose from prayer, his mind cleared from the hours of meditation. He stood in his cell (religious) and looked around the bare, metal walls. He was clear again as to his purpose. He walked out of the room, and {censored by order the the council}. As he stepped into the council room, he was conscious of the twelve around him, and watching. He spoke. "Sol once again threatens milatary action. 7, what do you think the odds are that they mean it this time?"
"High. The government made it one of it's election promises, mide more importantly the Centurians are now on board. The enemies of the faith rally once more."
"We could try to form an alliance. the remainder of the Second Wave must be as outraged at this as we are. If we had enough of the worlds with us on this, Sol would not dare attack."
"Let it be done. By the will of The Ascendant, We will forge such a barrier to this assault, that it's like shall not be attempted for decades."
"Now, we must turn to events in the Nexus. The virus spreading there is an abomination of the Art. It would appear to be incurable; such diseases do not occur in nature. The Centurians seem to be a likely candidate for this. "
"What about the Evolved heritics? Perhaps they..."
"No. The Evolved may be dissident, but they have not yet slipped into that yet. I belive."
"Our sources belive so too. However, Surely the true matter at hand is what to do about it? Do we have a cure?"
"Not yet. However, our sicentists are working on it. We are hopeful. Do we have council permission for the more... unconventional methods?"
"Done."

1= minus, 2 neutral, 3 plus.
Fate point spent
Bio (+4) action, With +2 from aspect tagging: Sociopathic
1d3 1d3 1d3 1d3 Total:

Attempting to Find a cure for the Nexus plague.

[nolispe]

That clearly did not work:
[roll0] [roll1] [roll2] [roll3]
Total: +7. That should do it.

[Fortuna]

Malin Zinius sat in his usual place, as near to the heart of the Second Wanderer as it was safe to do so. The reports of economic hardship were true, and were beginning to worry him: already he had been forced to make several repairs in significantly substandard ways, often involving duct tape. The trend could only get worse, unless something was done about it. Finally he turned back to the console and, after a few minutes of searching the databases, found what he was hunting.

"Initiate urgent local vote in wings," Mal consulted a chart displayed on another nearby monitor, "let's say wings Eagle and Prime23, for an attempt to mine the debris field discovered by wing Theta 50 years ago EIT, one year ago Theta PT, 45 years ago Eagle PT, 49 years ago Prime23 PT. Also initiate medium-term local vote in wing Alpha to administer aid to the Eden system in whatever form deemed appropriate. End command."

Resource roll, Fleet synergy, Expert strip-mining causing complications.
[roll0]

EDIT: I messed up my roll. That should have been 4d3+2+1-2-8=4d3-7, or result of zero.

Attempting to resolve the resource crisis.

[Johel]

TW-008, Partnership's main orbital station

One hand on the armored ferroglass window, the other holding a glass of 65-years old centaurian wine, Ngô Hsia stared at the vast emptyness that surrounded the large gas giant around which the station orbited.

The swirling masses of helium and hydrogen that constantly moved across the planet's surface were a soothening spectacle. One that Hsia Industries Vice-CEO never get tired to watch. It was his little pleasure : wasting time drinking a beverage whose cost could have fed a whole mining colony for a decade...

As one of the senior partners of Tawfret Partnership, Ngô was a powerful man. Not as powerful as his nephew, the company's CEO, but still a force to be reckoned with. More charismatic and respected than his brat of a boss, he was the true power behind the throne and, as such, had enough authority to allow some... special projects.

"-Transmission received, Ngô-sama"
The soft voice of his personnal FTL-comm device echoed through the office.
"-Check security log. Display text format."
As the control procedure reached the last bar, the small monitor displayed the message, making a broad grin appears on Ngô's aged face. This was one of the special projects he could easily allow. And the kind he would love to.

The old man frantically typed an answer while calling for his secretaress.
"-Mrs Wong, contact our dear friends of the Jovian Combinate, would you ? Ask for a meeting to be schedule as soon as possible. I might have a investment they'll be interested in."

Ngô's smile became broader. Since the time the Jovian Combinate was looking for a way to weaken these socialist bastards of the Pan-Jovian council...

Tawfret Partnership transfert 1 Faith Point to the GM knows who

[Kessler]

Story

Jannet XF608 entered the office of the Chief Engineer Lloyd XK305.

I have compiled the report on possibility of foreign aid. We can petition other colonies for assistance with a reasonable chance of success.

And they would just provide us with materials? Cheif Engineer wondered, suprised.

Our analysis of the mainstream human culture indicates a persisting tradition of charity. Moreover the leadership of the colonies can generate approval among populus by performing actions that indicate their concern for human life. It’s called good publicity. Jannet carefully explained. The Hephaestus long isolation have altered the social norms to a great degree. She was specifically trained to recognize such differences in thinking.

Lloyd XK305 remained silent for a minute, calculating the possible outcomes of different actions and rejecting less suitable solutions.

If we apply for foreign aid, this would break our tradition of self-reliance. If we lose it and next time the aid doesn’t come the damage to Hephaestus would be even greater. We need to suck it up and go on triple shifts and reduced rations for a time. It’s not like this is the first time something like this happens.

He glanced at the monitor where Cogs were busy repairing damage to the station's systems, despite knowing that nobody was coming to save them and the oxygen would run out in three minutes. They weren't even working on the life support systems, recognizing that those couldn't be fixed in time.

Diplomatic Transmission (when possible):

We thank the governments of Jasmonites and Order of the Black Star for the humanitarian aid offered. The crisis is being dealt with and there is no need for additional supplies. Therefore we must decline your help, but you have our gratitude for your intent. May your machines run infinitely.
Hephaestus Bureau of Diplomatic Relations.


Rolls

I’m using Unity attribute to have Cogs work extra hard to repair the damage and endure the losses suffered.

Unity: 3 + 1 + 2 - 1 - 1 = 4
Roll: [roll0]
Result: 3

Fate Points: 4 (-1)

Notes:

(+ 1) Linked Attribute: Engineering (used to repair the damage)
(+ 2) Invoking Aspect: Positive Attitude (among death and destruction, the Cogs just keep on working)
(- 1) Limiting Attribute: Resources (old machines are canibalized to repair the damage)
(-1) 2 Actions per turn (I'll think of the second action later).

[Kol Korran]

OOC: well, trying with the rolls again:
crack down on hypno drug:




crack down on the hypno drug:
Leadership +2,
linked attribute culture +1 (my people's belief work against the drug's purpose, and we call for the clan head to emphasise these aspects of the twisting path. see my post)
two actions is -1
and i'm tagging my aspect "spiritual resiliency" for +2 ( the people gather together to fight this "alien" plague that fell down on them, learning the lessons of solidarity from it.)
totla modifiers: +4, added to 4d3-8 is 4d3-4

[roll0]
-------------------------
Resort of Eden temporary aspect


create the "resort of Eden" temporary aspect. this should basically enable other factions to tag this aspect for culture, resource or maybe other thing (for the resourcefull), i i may use it for diplomacy or other stuff (trading with nations for bigger influences). we'll see
it's importent to note that this calls for both the "common people" (merchants, fleet people, and more) and nation leaders, including first wave and Sol...
can i use a fate point to make it a permenant aspect?
lets see modifiers: diplomacy and cuture for +3 (any way you look at it)
-1 for second action
and i'm tagging my aspect of "the all encompasing path" for +2. again i get
4d3-4
Kessler: i know this is similar to your idea, but in honesty i must say i had thought of it independently, i just thought the mechanics are different. :smallamused:

[roll1]

EDIT: GM said engineering was another limits factor, so i'm down by another -1. which means my fianl result is [5]. still should make a hell of a resort and commercial area! come on in, you know you want to :smallwink:

Edit: spent 2 fate points- 3 remaining.

[Robert Blackletter]

The chamber hushed The Voice walked into the room, flank by Jarkic on his right and A massive Warrior on his right. He walk to a raised dail at centre of the room and started to address the crowed of leaders.

Children, No doubt you have heard of the light ship in the sky, many of you will have heard of there offers of help of orbital habitat modules and free aid. But do they offer this freely, NO! they offer it with threats and lies. They Tell the lowest how much there life would be better but do not tell them the danger of the mechanical ways they follow. How it will make them weak, how it will break when they need it most and how they will be force to follow the ways of the outsider who will look at them, with distaste.We the Concord have advise Grand Leader Jarkic to reject these evil fools and to take action against them and to reclaim this world from there lies. Now listen to your leader his are the words of wisdom

with that the voice left the room, but Jarkic voice picked up

O.k Settle down, first i have asked Concord if they can reenforce our fleet with more liveships both maned and a few swarmer. Top do that we will need Materials so i want each of you Karns to go to your clans and put down dissent. The worst of the dissent shall be culled so the priest can have there materials,
Secondly I am going to offer our aid to the fraction where are expertise could help, if we are going against sol we shall need help.
Thirdly i Shall send the sol ship are disagreement and ask them to leave if they fail then they may face the conquense.
Lastly I am please to announce that our project to create a living ship capable of faster then light travel is nearer to completion expect to hear of it completion soon. Go now to your clan and do what you must, may you lines last forever

With that Jarkic left the Leaders chamber and went to his room where servial messages were sent


Putting down the lowest dissent
use fate point on Caste system:+2
Leadership +2
more then one acton-2
[roll0]
[roll1]
[roll2]
[roll3]
=3
Increaseing the fleet
Engineering +3
bio-fleet Synergy +1
more then one action -2
[roll4]
[roll5]
[roll6]
[roll7]
=3
Lightship

bio-lab Synergy +4
more then one acton-2
[roll8]
[roll9]
[roll10]
[roll11]
=4

o.o.c hope i done this right


EDIT Have just notice more then one action rule have adjest actions slightly. if a prob let me know

[Storm Bringer]

"God DAMMIT, Jake, what the hell were you thinking? Using our emergency supplies for a bloody party!"

Andrew Clyne was normally fairly sedate, but at this moment in time, his face was an alarming shade of purple as he vented his anger at Jake La'flaga, his minister for Food (and an Elector form the Trailing Arm), who was singluarly unimpressed

"Don't try to pin the blame on me for using those reserves for the Anniversery celebrations, Andy. You knew just as well as I did where that food came form"

Andy sat still in silent fury for a second, then nodded and returned to a slightly more normal shade.

"your right, jake. I shouldn't blame you. I know how hard it is to keep up with public demand."

"Damm right it's hard. we just don't have the acreage to keep up with our pop growth, and the budget for new O'neils is just too small. even with block 30 and 31 underway, useage is gonna overtake production in the next 3 years, tops. Either we throw a large part of the budget at new farming cylniders, or we find someone ready to export basic foodstuffs to us."

andrew looked thoughtful, stareing out his cabin window at the beatufil lattice of Crassus Station.
"we can't spare much more money for new farmland. I wish i could, but we'd never get it past the fleet Electors if we cut shipbuilding. I'm persueing import options, but no ones bit as of yet. Has Dr. Maru finished his report?"

Jake nodded, unhappily "yhea. He says that what we're asking is well beyond what he can pull off with the labs on hand. He believes what we want can be done, but the reshearch bottlenecks in our own RnD facilites mean it'd take over a decade to sort out. However, he says a contact of his might be able to help." jake produced a memory wand and transffered a file to Clynes desktop. Andrew looked at the data an raised a eyebrow. jake Shrugged

"yhea. i know it's hardly orthodox, but they are the best genetic manipulators in Known Space. Either of them could do this in a matter of weeks, if they put thier minds to it. Hell, i'd be suprised if they havn't already! I've run the numbers, they're in the attachment. Play this right, we can kiss goodbye to production worries for over a century,"

"if this goes public......"

"oh, relax! this isn't alpha Centauri! we already do this anyway, we're just taking it to the logical extenstion."



"okay. If this is your recommendation......"

"In my capity as an Elector of the Union, No, my recommendation is unchanged form offical policy. In my capity as your advisor, yes, I do".

"That'll do. I'll make the arrgenments and send the messages. Thankyou, Jake. Have we heard anything form karl on that generator?"



OOC:


action:
dispite what the post may imply, my actual action is to attmept to repair the damaged reactors on the food satalites. adding engineering (as it is a repair), claiming Synergy form high rescorce score (as its very, very important and it getting whatever it needs thrown at it), so total mod is +3. I think. I may not be doing it right.

[roll0]

that would be two minsus and one plus, so start at +3, add one (4), and take away 2 (2), for a end roll of +2. i think.

[puppyavenger]

Imperial Public Broadcast

In response to the recent crisis with the Forbidden Fruit Minister for Inter-System trade Walczak has released a statement to the press.

Although His Majesty's Government must apologize to Tezuka for the delays in having his ship re-fitted, we must object in the strongest terms possible to the insinuation that high-ranking members of the administration have accepted bribes from his peers! The honesty and incorruptibility of the Helion beuracracy is beyond reproach!

Regardless of his blatantly untrue insinuations, and his needless threats that only serve to aggravate the situation, we are happy to inform him that his replacement drive has been finished in New Lublin, and will have reached his current position via sub-light shuttle by the end of the week.

/end of broadcast


In the Board Audits

A group of at least twenty well-dressed bureaucrats are crowded around a conference table, while someone dressed identical stands at the front presenting a report

"So, it is my conclusion that the Ministry is completely from any sort of action taken against a few bad appl-"
"Soooooo...Do we know if anyone was actually bribed? Or did some shipping satrap just decide he wanted to get his son a pleasure yacht for his birthday?"
"Honestly, either is equally likely, but if someone was bribed it wasn't enough to show up in any audits or tax statements"
"Or spending accounts?"
"I'll get back to you when my grand-kids get the report"
"Anyway, what's out official recommendation on the course of action to be taken by our superiors?"
"String some smuck who stole a pen a few years ago up for it"
"But surely something needs to be done abou-"
"not our problem, we're not Internal review or Discipline"

Meeting of the Committee on Internal Logistics

"So, how the hell did getting an extra anti-matter generator to systems edge take so long?"
"while..it was my sons birthday...."
"Really? Really? Ah F**k it, I'm not on discipline, not my problem. So have we at least gota generator going his way?"
"Yep, bit of an old vintage though, probably not gonna last him past his next Port"
"Once again, not my problem. Serves him right for being so threatening"
"Eh true enough. So, problem solved?"
"yep"
"yes"
"yessir"
"Agreed, meeting adjourned"

46th general Meeting of the Secretariat

A group of ten lavishly dressed minister sat around an ornate conference table, with waiters rushing in and out of the room to bring drinks and food.

Minister Riedman, a altogether average looking man, if a bit overweight, cleared is throat to end all the various side conversations.

Mister Speaker, May we being with the top item o nthe agenda?"
Of course sir. First on the agenda is the ongoing crisis with the Forbidden Fruit
Ah, so, any opinions gentlemen? I think the crisis is relatively well in hand at this point, any dissenting opinions?

The Minister for Foreign Affairs one of the only three "oppisition" ministers, spoke up
Although the current crisis is mostly resolved, we can't forget the diplomatic repercussions of this. At this stage any major conflict with the Trade Board wold be..unfortunate, and undo the majority of our diplomatic efforts over the last few years.
Oh very well. Care to organize a mission to the major constituents of the Trade board and try and ensure relation remain patched up?
Of course sir.

OOC
Actions so far

Send a diplomatic mission to the major members of the First Wave Trade Board.

Tagging Parvenu Diplomacy for +2

Diplomacy gives me +2

1=-1 2=0 3=1

[roll0] [roll1] [roll2] [roll3] +4

Total +4

[The_JJ]

OOC:PM box clear.


BTW, I think we should clarify these rules. How does 4d3-X match up to 1= -1 2 = 0 3 = +1?

Also, it costs fate points to tag aspects, right? So let's see if we can't keep track of those.

[Aux-Ash]

Raghala system, Raghala Prime, Tagara, Bunker complex 5-6-5-H, The Autocrat's office

How bad is it?

Autocrat Aniene was drumming on her desk with her fingers, reading a report she held in her other hand about the new combat drones. Before her was a giant screen sending pictures from the devastation in Ramielle next to the local magistrate. The man was twisting uncomfortable under her gaze, despite that the Autocrat was on a entirely different continent.

We estimate about twelve dead and about a hundred wounded, about thirty of them critically so. The damage to the bunker complex is despite everything rather limited, repairing it should prove no problem ma'am.

Unfortunantely we cannot provide you with much information regarding the modifications to the drone. Most of it's systems was completely destroyed when we shot it.

But it is not a new model of drone?

No, ma'am. It is definantely the same model as before. Someone has just juryrigged it with these new weapons, added some sort of tracking system and done some serious programming.

The autocrat tossed the report onto the desk and stopped drumming with her fingers. Looking over the pictures next to the magistrate on the screen before sighing audibly. Pictures of concrete rubble and of stretchers with covered corpses.

Very well Magistrate. I will not take more of your time. Please do attend your duties. I assume you will contact my office as soon as you learn anything new?

Of course ma'am.

The man saluted and the transmission terminated, leaving only the pictures. The woman sat in the dark for a moment, quiet and rubbing her chin before she reached over to her intercom and activated it.

I want my head of intelligence in this room in five minutes.

Autocrat Aniene only had to wait for two minutes before the man walked in, saying not a word as he placed himself before her desk.

I want to know who did this and I want them to pay. I don't care if it is terrorists like the ones that set of that combat drone in Habitation sector 3 four years ago or if it's the Czar* himself. I want them to pay.

Laurent wordlessly bowed his head to the upset Autocrat and then left her office, leaving her alone as she sat in he chair staring at the images in anger.

Actions:


Having the vast spy networks of Raghala infiltrate various groups and listen to transmission in an attempt to indentify the ones behind the Bunker Busters.
Espionage: + 3
[roll0]

Result:

[Fortuna]

((OOC: completely forgot that I wanted to do this. I spend a fate point to declare that the Wanderers' ansibles are only connected with each other, except for the direct link to Sol maintained on board the Second Wanderer. That leaves me with five after my extra from the interference of an aspect.))

[The_JJ]

OOC... again:

Hey guys, so I wrote a semi-indepentent space station turned refugee camp that is outside of the Carthage System. Anybody want it? Or should I pass it to an NPC?

[Johel]

OOC... again:

Hey guys, so I wrote a semi-indepentent space station turned refugee camp that is outside of the Carthage System. Anybody want it? Or should I pass it to an NPC?

OOC :
You are giving us a space station full of refugees ? And you expect anybody to take care of the poor things ?! Ahahahahahaha !! Open the hatch, guys, it's time for pest control in OUR space station !!

Ok, seriously, just broadcast that fact IC. Maybe some NGO made a report on it and slip the paper to GNN...

What ? 1.000.000 people left on a space station with failing recycling devices ? But what are our governments doing ?!!

[Kol Korran]

OOC:


the normal 4 fate dice equel to 4d3-8 (results range between -4 and 4. check it out, it was suggested on the "ashes of sol" thread) make any calculations and it's still working out. to that, jsut add modifiers, and have one clean roll
i suggest that everyone writes in their actions their fate points (the one that are known to hae remained at least, fate points used/ regained from secret actions should remain a secret)
in any case, i suggest that at the ned of every turn, someone might make a summary of actions and results, after the GM gives them. (again, only known ones). this can include known fate points. the GM could do it, but any of us can. i'll do it this turn, and you guys suggest improvements. agreed?
we need an OOC thread i think. some of us are using the recruitment thread. want to use that, or open a thread specifically for that. or do you guys prefer the OOC to be done here?
in said recruitment thread i concluded (though feel free to check my math), that due to attributes number having to always be lower than lower ranks attributes, the system gets stuck after about 7 turns. Eldan suggested to forgo the pyramid, and allowing everyone to min max as much as they want. i actually like the balance, and think the pyramid can work if attributes can number more than the lowest rank, (which may be 1, or 2, or 3 as the game progresses). any opinions/ preferences?

this has been a long OOC


Kol.

[nolispe]

2 more actions:
(GM knows what)
[roll0] [roll1] [roll2] [roll3] -2 +4 +2(tagging an aspect: sociopathic)
=+3
(creating a new solar food source)
[roll4] [roll5] [roll6] [roll7] -2 +4
=+3

[Eldan]

Solaris:


Hey, I had to do something. Basically, you have no skills which help your economy, so an economic problem was the most logical. Your people are not emigrating actually, just bitching about the situation.

Anyway:
Your resource exports moderately improve the economy and with some government help, the worst effects of inflation are mitigated.

The second action: here, your culture definitely helps. Solaris united is also a helpful aspect here, so I'll give you a +3 here. Your people are grumbling, but no one is seriously thinking about leaving: they think that, despite the economic problems, this is still one of the best systems around.


nolispe:


You find a cure, and may now submit it to Nexus. It works extraordinarily well, quickly and gives long-lasting immunity to re-infection.


Random Person:

Sorry, but a +0 means you just keep up the status quo. No further breakdowns, but not enough resources to improve the situation.


Kessler:

In true cog fashion, you work through the problem without complaints.


Kol Korran:

Your population works together unearthing the syndicate. The drugs are not sold to your population, as it flat out refuses to consume it. There is a certain aura of hostility towards foreigners for a while as they are more closely examined than before, but that soon passes. Several labories are uncovered and closed down as well. Crime rates go back.


Robert Blackletter:

I'm giving you some limiting attributes on your actions:
First action: -1 for low unity, for a result of +2. Revolutionary actions are supressed for now, but the lower castes are still unhappy and grumbling, morale is on an all-time low.

Second action:
No limiting attribute here, the fleet is slightly bolstered.

Third action:
Lightships are clearly limiting here, but you make some progress. Still, there are huge problems in this task: without antimatter, which so far can't be contained in purely biological systems, you have no way of producing the incredible amounts of energy necessary for alcubierre travel.


Storm Bringer:

Calculations seem correct.
+2 is sufficient to get the reactor back up and running, and for now, the worst of the crisis is averted. While there will be some shortages until the production is at full capacity again, it can at least be resumed.


puppyavenger:

I'm giving you a -1 for power here, since you still need to outfit the ship. Still, a +3 is enough to calm the Trade Council and assure them that there was no malicious intent.


Aux-Ash:

I give you a -1 for unity on that: with so little trust between subfactions, getting spies everywhere isn't easy. You still find out that the cause of the attacks is a splinter faction aiming to dispose the autocrat and seek closer relations with the first wave. They call themselves rejoiners and seem to be gearing up for a revolution, even though they are disorganized and lack resources.

[Kol Korran]

OOC:

"down with drugs! just say NO!"
um, og great and might GM, what about the great Eden resort? luxury! entertainment! indulgence! spiritual, mental and phyical pleaures! women of negotiable affection! men of negotiable affection! marsupials of... (ok, enough)
how does this project goes? 5 is a nice result, no?

[puppyavenger]

Eldan

Well, diplomacy indicates I'll probably do another action before the end of turn, so would +2 still be enough?

[The_JJ]

GM
Excellent. I'll file it under 'silly foreigners don't understand us, etc.'

OOC: Re, Station:
Once a refugee community, now a thriving center for Solarians doing bussiness with the outside world.

[Robert Blackletter]

Jarkic was in a meeting with the concord.

We going to need friends if we fighting sol, I have sent offers of aid in return for support to some of the more amendable fractions. One group has accepted, but we need 1000 of Louse (food resource creatures) To be transported to there home system. Now if this comes to war we are going to need FTL travel, what progress is being made?

The Voice looks up
Our priest have made some progress but can't find away to contain the anti-matter required for FTL travel, in a biological system, we may need to use a hybrid system. The other answer is in psychic Phenomenon it may be worthy of investigation but for the moment we shall leave that.

Good, i'm waiting to hear from some of our potenal allies but when i do we may have more to discuss



Create 1000 head of food resource creature
(will create temporary aspect in the receiver)
Biolab +4
multiple action -1
= 4d3-5
[roll0]

creating a living Light ship
Engineering +3
bio lab Synergy +1
Aspect Organic tech:-1 (+1 fate point)
light ship penty -1
multable action -1
=4d3-7
[roll1]

I'm making a declaration (-1 fate point)
In recent time a small percentage of the universe, greater in modified humans have some degree of psychic powers

Fate point left =4-1 (declaration) +1 (aspect trouble)=4

GM
Dose my bolstered fleet create a temporary aspect or increase my fleet stat?

[Ambon]

The Constellation, Automated Factory 8213 in the Geertz Belt

"Seeds 400-500 have made contact with their targets. Seeds 500-600 are launching now."

Though it was a largely utilitarian structure, the AF 8213 asteroid did have a nice view of the inner Belt provided by a number of cameras on its surface. The video feed showed The Hunger of Lions, under Kingwell's command, running military exercises to distract the Cut-Throat from this project.

Instead, Goldman contented herself with the much more comprehensive, if less visually interesting, sensor display. She watched as a sea of green lights were joined by a hundred red ones turning yellow and stationary, signifying contact, while another hundred red points blossomed outwards from the display's centre, a gray point that represented the factory.

"This is good, we're 87% done with this area"

Though the technician was optimistic, Goldman wasn't. She had long been a proponent of militarizing the Belt, a position which caused her no small amount of grief from the Asteroid Bloc and even de la Cruz. It took a pirate lightship implement even the weakest of her designs.

Thoughtfully she walked to the "seed" in the centre of the room and looked at the fruit of her labour. It was appropriately named having the shape of a sunflower seed, though it was the size of the tank and had the black-wet shine of a dog's nose. Each "seed" was a package of the best of the Constellation's AI, engineering and biotech - in essence, a miniature automated factory - that could be quietly inserted in asteroids. Once there it had one purpose: since they didn't have the time to properly turn the asteroids into weapons platforms, the automated systems would instead use the asteroids' minerals to give them crude mass driver engines. The asteroids would not be platforms for weapons, but weapons themselves.

5/5 Fate Points
Action 1
Maneuver: Seed the asteroid belt and create Weaponized Asteroids temporary aspect.
Modifiers: -8 (base), -1 (second action), +2 (using Engineering[1], with Computing synergy[3]) = -7 total
[roll0]

Action 2
Attack the Pirates!
Modifiers: 8 (base), -1 (second action), +1 (using Fleet[0], with Leadership synergy[4]), +2 (tagging Weaponized Asteroids temporary aspect), +2 (tagging Scientists at War aspect due to the presence of Weaponized Asteroids, cost 1 Fate point) = -4
[roll1]
4/5 Fate points

[Greystone]

The Admiral's Private quarters, Bastion

"This disease is an abomination toward Keelah" The hologram of Nicoli Bramas flickered as he slammed his fist on his desk, wherever he was.

The Council had convened once it was for sure that the disease was not only very powerful, but threatening to the entire race. So far they hadn't gotten very far in the discussion.

Admiral Amalthia shook her head "I don't want to finish this cycle's trip only to come back to find a graveyard. What are you planning on doing Master Greyholme"

The man in question, the only one in the flesh at the moment, pondered the others for a moment "We have received several reports that say this disease is not natural... but manufactured"

"What!?" that was Admiral Andorsi, her eyes opening wide.

"Yes, and by the inner systems. We must move fast. Have some of your fastest ships look around for any good doctors and medical supplies"

Admiral Dente, the youngest of the group smiled "I am at the moment docked over a jungle world. I can see what I can do"

Greyholme nodded curtly "We need to contain this plague."

The holograms all nodded their assent and the feed cut out.

Action 1
Trying to create a cure.

I am using Bio genitics modified by my aspect If you want to aquire something to find raw materials and trained doctors who can help.

[roll0] [roll1] [roll2] [roll3] +3

In the Centuri Systems

Smaller ships from the Dente and Amalthia fleets scour the inner systems of contacts and try to find out if the rumours are true that they are behind the disease.

Action 2
Spying,

Espionage score, using any aspect from The Order of the Black whatever.

Also adding a +1 point for using the fleet score with espionage to represent the amount of ships being sent out.

[roll4] [roll5] [roll6] [roll7]+2

[Fortuna]

What I originally posted due to a misundertanding.
((So this is round two, yes?))

Malin looked morosely at the screen. The attempt had failed to produce any spectacular results; he was on his last hundred rolls of duct tape. The medium-term vote had gone fine just as the action became useless. And, to cap it all, the coffee beans had gone missing under mysterious circumstances.

"Initiate urgent local vote in superwing 20 for an attempt to find another source of resources in deep space, p/4 off wing Theta's extreme hubwards lightcone surface hubwards, scale 3. Also initiate co-related general vote for diversion of LSF 2 to assist."

Resource roll with Fleet and Lightships synergy (I can't find a rule against it) and Unity hindering.

[roll0]

EDIT: Woops! Got it wrong. Sorry.

[Kol Korran]

OOC Radnom Person:

i don't think round 2 started yet. i think the GM is supposed to announce it does. i'm not sure everyone acted yet (the Empire hasn't i think), and not everyone submitted their "post results" posts. some results havn't been finished up yet (constellation, flotilla, possible action of hephaestus. if i'm not mistaken a turn takes about a week in real time (though we may be off to a fast start)

Greystone:

you're forgetting the -1 to all actions from multiple actions.

[aravier]

The Sovereign Alliance: Vellion, House of Parliament.

The snapping of dozens of cameras can be heard as Prime Minister Alexander Holt steps from the prestigious House of Parliament, a solidly constructed building crafted from the finest stone in the area almost two-hundred years ago, it's somewhat Gothic architecture clashing with the modern city that surrounds it. Of course, there's only one subject on the lips of the pack of journalists swarming round the door, Alexander simply waving is hand, as if the voices were but a dream.
"Sir, sir! What are you going to do about the Grey Code-"
"Is it true that Chairman Williams is under interrogation under connections wi-
"Have you determined the nature of this alleged bioweapon?"
With a grin, he simply gestured to the police commissioner next to him, who, suddenly thrown into the limelight, shook his head, trying to answer as many of the questions as possible. Holt simply chuckled, his laughter deep in his age, as he took the opportunity to flee the scene, moving to his waiting car.

Once inside, he let out a long sigh, before asking the driver to make away, turning to the woman waiting for him inside the car; Ambassador Jane-Smith.
"My, we do certainly have a problem on our hands, don't we?" Holt said slowly, reaching out for a data-slate, and idly flicking through its contents.
"We do...The five nations are all outraged at how such a thing could happen. Even your own planet, Evebor is insisting for some answers, and soon too."
"Well, a crisis is also an opportunity. We must cut this cult off at the bud...Is Sol going to help us on this one?"
"We're attempting to contact them, but for now I believe we are on our own."
"Typical...Being the host of Sol in this lawless part of space doesn't half make me shiver in bed. We're supposed to spread peace, but I'm not sure many of these systems crave it like us." Holt makes a wry smile, returned by his Diplomat. "No matter. Keep Admiral Chamberwick in the loop as to whatever we find. I don't want this turning into a mess like the Adria scandal..."
"Mhmm. Well, we'll see what we can do."


Right, two actions here. First of all, I'd like to try a diplomacy check to see if anyone in Sol knows anything about this cult; a hotbed of culture and knowledge like earth should know something, or so Mr Holt hopes.

Diplomacy: +4
Aspect Alignment(A friendly face): +1 (I think)
More then one action in a turn: -1

[roll0], [roll1], [roll2], [roll3] +4

Secondly, a leadership test, as Holt tries to at least clear his own party of any corruption

Leadership: +2
Aspect (Diverse): -1 (I think)
More then one action in a turn: -1

[roll4], [roll5], [roll6], [roll7]

Right, I hope that all works...

[Kessler]

Hephaestus

Sometime after the situation has normalized, the Hephaestus faction resumed diplomatic communications with other faction. Several marketing firms were sub-contracted to fill the screens with commercials and deals were made with government bureaucrats. The Cogs were planning to establish a massive Space Junk Yard, where other stellar nations could dump their obsolete, damaged and unwanted spaceships. The wealth of the spare parts and old ships would be used by Hephaestus to establish repairs operations and rent agreements for ships restored to functionality.

The affordable prices were sure to attract private merchants, space adventurers and minor colonies. The sort of people, the rich First Wave shipyards didn't bother with.

Bring you ships and we get them fixed. We can restore machines dated from the First Wave to operation.

Found an ancient battlefield site? Tow the ships to us and give you a good price.

Try one of our Rent-a-Warship deals. You’d be amazed at how tolerant we are of the condition you return them to us.

Individual Contracts

Tawfret Partnership (Offered)

Priority service, preferable rates and kickbacks to the Twafret officials in exchange for directing business to the Hephaestus (via maintenance requirement)

Constellation (Offered)

A contract for the rent of military space crafts and Cog engineers to perform combat repairs. The space ships are of low quality, but low price allows greater numbers. Constellation is required to sell the wreckage after the battle, as long as it is economically justifiable, to the Hephaestus at preferential terms.

Jasmonites (Offered)

An offer to repair the ancient Lightships at a discount, due to the common origins of the two nations.


Rolls

Create Space Junk Yard aspect.


Diplomacy: 3 + 1 – 1 = 3

Roll: [roll0]
Result: 5

Use 1 Fate Point to make the Space Junk Yard aspect permanent.

Fate Points 3 (-2)

(+1) Linked Attribute: Engineering
(-1) Multiple Actions

[Eldan]

Kol Korran:

Sure, your resort is coming along finely.


Puppyavenger:

Sure. +2 is a solid result.


Robert Blackletter:

Sorry, but doing another action this turn for the same thing won't help.


Rest coming later.

[Johel]

Tawfret Partnership

"-...And why should we again rely on some backward colony to provide a service that, frankly, any of our automated factories could supply for a fraction of the cost, with far more guarantee ? Aren't the Yards of TW-004 and TW-017 large enough to accommodate the ships of this system ?
It is exactly for that kind of reason that Sol is barring its teethes !! We should be the ones to launch such venture. We should but we don't !! Because we are but a divided, disorganized and unruly mob which satisfies itself with prosperity when we clearly need stability !!"

Tobias Smith's deep voice filled the whole room as he finished his speech against the last #TR proposal. Not that it was really necessary at this point : Smith was known to defend an isolationist, strong system. A concept generally alien to what the rest of the partners wanted Tawfret to be. Yet, one couldn't ignore the tribun. Not when several orbital colonies had gathered funds to keep him in power.

And not when Javirez Jimenez, another senior partner, supported him today.
"-Concerning the nations of Sol, I have to agree with Mr. Smith. Their claim about we offering shelter to criminals is really but an excuse to take us back under their control. While I feel that laws and bureaucracy isn't the solution, it is clear that, unless our Partnership presents a solid and credible image of unity, we will look like a tempting target."
"-Thank you, Mr. Jimenez !!"
"-...but I also feel that this specific Temporary Regulation might provide the unity we seek. Or at least, a beginning of such. We know that, if things come down to a show of force, the combined forces of the people we represent won't even be a match for the nations of Sol. We have ships but how many are armed or even simply fit for battles ? 5% ? 10% at most ?"
"-Oh come on !! You're including the civilian ships in this !! Our warships are state-of-the-art and..."
"-...are barely a few hundred. A thousand at most. While the nations of Sol have more warships than we have civilian cargos. To outfit said cargos with weapons would at least make Pan-Jovia think twice before invading. Maybe the Cogs are unreliable but they offer us an fast yet cheap way to show some teeths."

A soft, yet commanding voice rose from the left side of the assembly.
"-I wouldn't worry much about Pan-Jovia. Just a thought..."
A few laughers were heard around senior partner Ngô Hsia. But for the most part, the partners remain obvious as to the meaning. Jimenez didn't bother asking. There was a vote to do. He gestured toward the Chairwoman. Katharina Pawlak nodded.

"-Given that 30% of the partners have signed the petition regarding Temporary Regulation FR-7295, the following text has been discussed and is now submitted to the Partnership as a whole for approval. Please make your vote known."
And so it was decided...
[Roll] (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showpost.php?p=7916503&postcount=180)

****
You are watching... GNN !!

Fantastic failure today for the pro-Hephaestus lobby in the system of Tawfret. It seems that, faithful to its reputation, the Partnership once again stopped all attempts to regulate the lifestyle of its citizens.

As a result, the motion for a "Maintenance Certificate", supposed to help decrease the number of accidents, failed to raise even the slightest support. A few disgrunted investors, who had already signed deals with the Hephaestus Yards, cursed senior partner Smith for his virulent opposition, he who usually embraces such cause.

[Storm Bringer]

Sharpi system

out on the edges of the Jump limit a rock span on it's lazy orbit of the distant sun, light-hours away. At first glance, it was a unremarkable rock, like any of the thousands that made up asteroid belts the galaxy wide.

However, looks could be discieving.

if one looked closer, one would make out a few patches of the surface that were not rock, but some form of hard, shell like material. In this shell, areas of seemingly bear flesh could be made out.

if one borught a high-powered scanner and a master bio-scienist, you would see the asteroid was hollow, and that he was filled with this...creatue. after a lot of pordding and guesswork, one could work out what this was.

A lookout post. a organic spy satalite, parked on the systems edge to warn of the arrival of a class A starship. it posscessed a complex, discerning brian and memory, filtering the data form nearly two dozen sensory input organs, form a organic radar emmiter to a old-fashioned high-powered optical nerve, and send, via an semi-telepathic relay, the filtered data back to a human operator on Pennace.

at this point in time, it was focusing most of its attention on the 12-kilometer vessal that had just dropped out of it's Alcubierre fold about half an AU short of the jump limit.


On Pennance, an operator watched this beamoth as it breaked to a halt relative to the system primary. He was seeing the data via a nerve jack, the images superimposed over his vision. his supervisor stood behind him.

"can you tell who made it?" he asked, quietly,

"No, my lord. Not yet. we are too far away to make out hull symbols, and we have yet to recieve a transponder squark....... " the operator trailed off, then his voice changed tone slightly

"It is sending a transmission. One moment...."

the 'console' in front of the operator twitched, then a voice was heard, distorted slighty by the crackle of radio interference.

++this Is Fleet Captain Cyrus, of the Union of Bowman. As per my orders, I am here to collect the goods promised in our aggreement. I am proceding in-system to your planet, and will enter orbit in aproxomatly 4 standard days. I understand that the cargo will not be ready at that time, so I request permission for myself and a few of my staff to land and discuss the arrgenments for the collection of this cargo. Cyrus, Out.++

the operator face went though several contortions as he sorted the input and intreprated the feed.

"my lord, I detect vessel sepertion form the Lightship. At least a dozen ships so far....mostly warships. howerver, I also see at least 3 merchant vessals. they are forming up and acellarating on a incept corse with Pennance"

the supervisor stood motionless for a few seconds, then looked at the runner stood beside him.
"Inform Jarkic."

[Eldan]

Ambon:

You can only tag one aspect per action. Weaponizing the asteroids goes along nicely, but even with that, the pirates are outmaneuvering you and evading the newly built asteroid weaponry. Still, the presence of the new equipment keeps them from attacking you openly, instead keeping them to the outer reaches of the system, where they can't do much damage.

Small success.


Greystone:

With the cure you got from your allies, and your own check, you are able to cure most of the population before death rates get too high. Included is also a vaccine, which should prevent further outbreaks.

Success.

Scouring the inner systems reveals nothing conclusive pointing towards a culprit, but it seems that the centaurians are not behind it, if the disease is unnatural.

Moderate success.


Aravier:

Asking Sol:
While Sol does not know about the Grey Codex itself, they submit to you a lengthy dossier of cults and illegal organisations recently removed from earth, including suspected resources, names and faces of prominent members and past activities in great detail.

Small success, Earth gives you a temporary aspect "Sol Dossiers" you can use for a +2 against the cult.

Clearing Corruption:
This action ends up as a +1. Since you used your aspect to reduce the success of an action, you have the option of failing it and getting a faith point for it. Otherwise, you end up with a barely above neutral result: you issue a standard statement, but the press is still all over you.


Kessler:

The Junkyard is successfully started up. A good dozen minor colonies are contacting you already, and a merchant already in the area is selling you half a dozen old in-system freighters at a discount in exchange for minor repairs. Money is coming in.

Great success.


That would be updates up to my last posts. Rest coming in an hour or so.

[Eldan]

Johel:


I would indeed count what you did as failing an action on purpose due to an aspect. That's worth a faith point.

[Narkis]

Imperial Palace, Planet Home, Perun System

An old man is looking outside the window at the busting metropolis, lost in his thoughts. Suddenly, the door opens and another, young, man rushes in. The two look very much alike, if not for the age difference. The newcomer stands silent for a moment, while the Czar turns around and addresses him.

"The Enemy has found us. They know we are here. And they are coming."
"Yes, father, I heard the news too. But don't worry, we're ready for them. We'll turn back these invaders, just like we did the Raghalans."
"You are too young to remember that war, my son. And you remember the wrong lessons. We were not ready then, and our people paid the price. We may not be ready now, too. And our people would be the ones to pay again."
"And what do you suggest, father? We have no choice! Their invasion fleets are already on the way."
"This story they used, about the scoutship. It may not be just a lie to gain their people's support. And if it's true, we can try to avoid this war. Postpone it. We need more time. Time to prepare, time to learn more about the Enemy."
"And what will we do in the meantime? Sit around, watching as they "investigate" our system for their "lost" ship? They're the Enemy! What if they decide we are responsible, and attack us regardless? Will we be prepared then?"
"Right, you are right. You will be in charge of the preparations. I trust you know what to do?"
"Wha... Me? Yes, thank you father. We have talked a lot about this. I won't disappoint you."

And with that, the Czarevitch walks out of the room, already thinking about the plan.

"I know you won't, my son"

The Czar then sits on his chair, and presses a button on his desk.

"Anna, call Duke Mittermeyer. Connect him to my office as soon as he answers."

The wall opposite from the desk goes blank. A moment later, a middle-aged man appears on the screen. The man salutes.

"You Highness. You wanted to speak to me?"
"Cut it, old friend. How many times must I tell you not to be so formal?"
"Less than what it will take to convince me, your Majesty."
"*sigh* Another conversation for another time, I fear. We have more pressing matters."
"The invaders."
"The invaders. I want you to intercept their fleet before they reach Home. Try to negotiate with them, see what they want to leave us alone. But be prepared to fight if they want to."
"I understand, your Majesty. Will that be all?"
"Just don't fire the first shot. Go now. I have complete faith in you."
"Thank you, your Highness. I will leave at once."

The screen turns blank once again. The Czar is left alone with his thoughts.

Hours later, an armada begins to form on Home's orbit. It will keep gathering ships until the incoming fleets arrive, when it will rush to greet them.

Action 1: Attempt to diplomatically resolve the situation
+0 Diplomacy
+1 Synergy with Leadership
-2 Vengeance is mine Aspect. It will complicate negotiations. +1 Fate points?
-1 Two actions this turn
Total modifier: -2
[roll0]

Action 2: Prepare for war. Create the "Mobilized for war" temporary aspect
+2 Leadership
+1 Synergy with Unity
+2 Vengeance is mine Aspect. -1 Fate points
-1 Two actions this turn
Total modifier: +4
[roll1]

[Johel]

Partnership's pending projects :

Project "Buzzing Ears" (Computing)
Subcontracted to : Fitzburg Electronic, Reeks Astronomic
Aim : to develop a way to prevent all FTL communications from passing through a given area. Primary aim is to block FTL comms. Secondary aim is to increase the range of the blocked area. Tertiary aim is to increase the efficiency and reduce the cost of production.
Approval of budget : [roll0]

Project "Fiery Could" (Engineering)
Subcontracted to : Light Foundation, Mitsubishi Hyperspace
Aim : Increase Tawfret's home defense capability. Exact details available for partners only. Primary aim is to produce enough firepower to wipe out incoming fleets. Secondary aim is to increase energy efficiency. Tertiary aim is to reduce the size of the weapon itself.
Approval of budget :[roll1]

[aravier]

GM
I'd like the faith point if that were possible. Might come in handy later if I need to try and do something else.

[nolispe]

The people of the second wave have long been a race apart. We set out from the second wave for a reason; the inner worlds are corrupt, cruel and dominated from above. When we set out a fledgling colonies, did the inner worlds offer us any aid? No! When we suffer, do they assist? No! However, when resources are discovered, they swoop in and try and absorb our free nations, trumpeting false motives of freedom and concern for humanity. If they truely cared about those, they would have assisted us in our recent troubles. But did they? No!

To give but one example, recall the recent virus that attacked the pursians. Nature does not form viruses that are incurable, or kill as swiftly as that. The virus would not be benfited by wasting resources on being hard to cure, or by killing the host it had found before exhausting it's resources. However, this virus does both. As such, it is man-made. Three days ago, we recived evidence from one of our supporters in Centuri, that the council ordered the development of this virus and it's release in the Nexus, as a deterrent to the Pursians to prevent them challenging the Centurian fleet.

Friends, it is time to take a stand against the inner systems powermongering. their foul machinations threaten to rise up and overwhelm all the freedom and peace that we have striven to hard to achieve.

We propose the immediate formation of a Defensive Pact, to be triggered in the event of milatary action against the citizens of the Second Wave by the inner systems. The Order does not know much about the exact content of this treaty; the exact wording would need to be drafted in such away as to prevent it being exploited by unscrupulus persons.
suggested clauses include the following:
No signatory shall interfere in another's internal affairs.
All signatories shall be required to share any information they have regarding hostile moves of any inner system against other signatories.
Hostilities between Second Wave factions shall be exempt from the stipulations of this treaty.

[Johel]

Tawfret Partnership
Project "Buzzing Ears"
[roll0]

EDIT : ...Damn it.
13, with a +6, that means I scored 7.
That can means only two possibilities :

3+2+1+1 = +1+0-1-1+6 = +5
2+2+2+1 = +0+0+0-1+6 = +5

[The_JJ]

**Wait, what turn are we on?**

[Johel]

**Wait, what turn are we on?**
Turn 2. You'll see it once we jumped into Turn 3 :smallwink:

[Eldan]

Turn 1, actually.

[The_JJ]

That's what I thought. But everyone else is taking new actions like it's a new turn.

[Eldan]

Turn 1, actually.

[Eldan]

Narkis:

Negotiations proceed badly. Your side angers the enemy with threats and claims of righteous vengeance, while Eridani threatens open warfare unless they are permitted a thorough investigation and eventual preparations. Sol diplomats accompany the mission and try to calm the waters, but merely manage to force the entire thing to a standstill.

+1 Fate point.

War preparations are swift and thorough, and the entire system is soon mobilized and ready.


Johel:

For now, I'll assume your actions were meant for turn 2, then.


Turn 2:

The Arena, with Cooper Cartledge

CC: "Welcome Ladies and Gentlemen, in the Arena. My guests today are Professor Shimura from the Tharsis University of Mars, Senator Mayron Winkelman of the Pacific Union of Terra and General Saber Fléchette*, Commanding Officer of the Third Eridani Fleet "Hammer of Truth".

Our topic today: with the recent incidents of political unrest affecting several of the less stable Second Wave colonies, the rising tension between Eridani and the Empire of Perun and even the call to arms from the still infamous Order of the Black Star, what do you think are the chances of actual armed conflict between inner and outer worlds?

MW: "Well, Cooper, to be perfectly honest with you, Sol has not been involved in any armed conflict since the Phobos Treaty ended the second martian civil war, and we are certainly not getting into one now. As always, the pacific union will advocate a peaceful solution. I'm sure that, after the initial misunderstandings are set aside, we will all profit much more that way.

SF: "This is all well and nice, Senator, but in the end, let's remember why the Order is infamous. And may I also remind you of the intelligence pictures we all saw from the outer worlds? Poverty, starvation, dictatorship. Just because Sol has lived in poverty and peace for 200 years now, we can't stand aside and watch as these small-time tyrants ignore all the Sirius Declaration stands for. Eridani High Command is ready to defend the rights of every in this galaxy, no matter the system."

...

*can you believe a random name generator actually gave me that name?

[The_JJ]

Live from Alexandria Station, Carthage System Network presents: Alliance Air, with Yaz Tanib. Today's guest, Matilda Green!
*clapping*

So let's jump right into it, 2nd Wave vs. 1st. Inner vs. Outer. Is conflict inevitable?

Inevitable? Probably not. A good thing, most definately.

You aren't advocating for war are you?

No, not really. But somethings need to change. Take the First Wave Trade League for instance. Self righteous hypocrites the lot of them. Tariffs to the Inner Systems are at least 5% higher than the highest they allow us to go without threatening military action. It's rediculous. The pompous fools simply don't understand us, or any of the outer systems. The Eridani might have a big fleet, but let me tell you, it's weak and it's inflexible. The Helios fleet could take them with half the cruisers on cooldown.

*cheers*

You know... I'm afraid I agree.

***

Alister Sufe, the much put upon and overworked head of the Lighthouse stepped into his home. It wasn't much, not what you'd expect out of a man meant to represent an entire system, but the Alliance leadership had never gone much for luxery.

Alister had been think about how awful his lot in life had been lately, but then he'd noticed that his locks had been overridden. So when he stepped into his home, he did it behind a cut down fléchette pistol.

Hiya Sufe. I'm in the kitchen.

Heaven's sake, Yaz. I almost shot you.

How's tricks?

Well enough, I suppose. No thanks to you.

Hey, just doing my bit for the Alliance.

Yeah, Sufe collapsed into one of the chairs at the kitchen table. They all say that. Of course, in your case, it might just be true. Is... is that my yogurt you're eating?

Yep.

The last one?

Yep. The woman across from him smiled, licked the back of the spoon, and tossed it into his sink. It was.

Yaz...

Yeah, yeah, I know. Just wanted to stop in a say hi. A nice day to you too.

Sufe watched the woman, no girl, walk out the door. Then he turned to the fridge. There had to be some other food in there.

Of course. She'd brought him a new pack of yogurts.

Action 1: Shouting Fire in a Crowded Theater.
Culture (+3) with a Leadership bonus (+1), with an additional -1 for multiple actions:
[roll0] [roll1] [roll2] [roll3] Total: +5+4
Trying to inspire Pan (or darn near) Second Wave resentment towards the first. Creat an Aspect maybe? I dunno.


Action 2: Baby steps
Diplomacy with a -1 for two actions, -1 for Aspect: We Are Solaris, Arrogant.

[roll4] [roll5] [roll6] [roll7] Total: -3-4-3

Attempting to put together a coalition that would provide a united front against the Inner Sphere. It might not work...

+ Fate point for the epic fail. Anybody else want to try.

[Kessler]

Hephaestus

The Hephaestus leadership was watching for the developing situation. The prospects of war were good – technological advancement, resolution of societal problems. But people working in the Foreign Relations Bureau were concerned, just how far such war could go, if it were to erupt. The non-Cog factions thought about warfare in quite different terms. They just didn't know when it was time to stop.

Trade Offer: Jasmonites

The Hephaestus would like to hire a team of cultural consultants from Eden to develop a joint project to improve Hephaestus/Jasmonites image in the galaxy.

Requesting a temporarily Aspect: Cultural Consultants

[Fortuna]

Malin looked morosely at the screen. The attempt had failed to produce any spectacular results; he was on his last hundred rolls of duct tape. The medium-term vote had gone fine just as the action became useless. The colonies looked about ready to turn on Sol, which could turn ugly for the Wanderers. And, to cap it all, the coffee beans had gone missing under mysterious circumstances.

"Initiate urgent local vote in superwing 20 for an attempt to find another source of resources in deep space, p/4 off wing Theta's extreme hubwards lightcone surface hubwards, scale 3. Also initiate co-related general vote for diversion of LSF 2 to assist. End command."

Resource roll with Fleet and Lightships synergy (I can't find a rule against it) and Unity hindering.

[roll0]

EDIT: Nooooooooo!

[Kol Korran]

Turn 1 summary- Jasmonite ventures: First step on a new path (long post)

OOC: about this post, and attribute upgrade
So, this comes a bit late, but i have been meaning to write a summary of things from my faction's perspective the following is fluff, some of it pertaining to actions and diplomacy the jsamonites took this turn. there is just one crunch piece:

the Lightship attribute is upgraded by +1, as only 0 level attributes can be upgraded at this point, and i don't see espionage realy up there. the fluff for it comes in the 3rd and fifth parts. (note: i fluffed the visit to the cogs into this respect, there is no mechnical influence to here or there)

Other than that- no new crunch. i hope you enjoy. and sorry for the typos, it happens when i write fast. i'll try to fix most. :smallsmile:


Drug Bust

"And I call to you- resist this new abomination! It is a corruptor of mind and spirit! unlike our own Eden grown herbs, this vile filth came from another planet, to plague our land! and it is a plague! for like a foul festering disease, it takes away your will, you passion, your self..." The preacher/ clan leader held them all raptured in his gaze for a few moments, before continuing quietly. "I have seen some of the aflicted- at first they were happier, stronger in spirit, more creative and energetic- but that is the illusion, the mirage, the mask of the thief- without warning it took them, their sanity. I have seen them, and it saddens me deeply. they are no longer human." there were a few outcries from the crowd, a few gasp of shock as some pictures came up on the screens. "So i say to you- deny the drug of evil! follow the twisting path, and take comfort in known herbs, but mostly in your family and spiritual guides. In this strange time, when the cosmos is opening it's mysteries and horrors, we must be strong, resolute, and remember who we are- Jasmonite of the Aoorie Clan! are we not?!" and the crowd burst into cheers.
-----------------
Rierden Jasmon sat as the Shuttle landed at the Ganyon Clan lands. He quickly got out and walked through the lush vegetation towards the main holds. one of the Onirs* came to meet him. They are all gathered. The fields are at the back. It seems their seclusion allowed them to work freely." Rierden sighed. so soon do we see the new worlds influence. thankfully this was stopped in time, but will the next. with a grim face he came to the captive held Ganyon leaders, their tribe gathered fearfully around them.

Rierden and the woman (Haleos was her name?) stared at each other for a few moments. no need for words, the emotions on their faces and bodies belaid simple questions and answers. a child started to cry. but there were things for which real words served better. "Why?" asked Rierden. "They promised to help us, to make us a real people again. We are dying! we had 4 pregnancies in 12 years! we are too few... we were desperate." Haleos finished with a whisper. "The Source provides for us, things go in cycles, you're down, but you'll go up. merge with other clans, bring new blood, but not this! THIS drug is killing our people!". Haleos and some of the other leaders shrugged, one even snorted in disdain. "They said it was part of an experimenting process. that Eden people were somehow special, that their bodies and minds were different. they wanted to check, to explore, perhaps to cure us..." Rierden was disgusted, and compassionate- these people were way off the path, their inner light dimmed till it almost can't be seen. what they say bode ill for the Jasmonites, he had to learn more. "Who? Who are these outworlders? the Devil heretics of the BlackStar? their offspring the Evolved? maybe the currupt manipulators of Tawfret?" suddenly a new possibility presented itself to Rierden, a frightening one. yet when the Cosmos taps you... "Or maye one of the first wave worlds?". there was silence for a few more moments, before the defeated woman spoke "We... we don't know. they were always heavily disguised, and came in unmarked ships. we know they have taken some of the fruid users with them, some that may be though of to be on pilgrimage. we're... we're sorry, we were just so desperate" a few tears ran on the woman's face. "the Clan will be held to court in Genesis**. I expect your clan to go through heavy spiritual training while you work out your debt to the path, and the people you've hurt. be sure you'll be questioned more thoroughly later."

as the Onirs rushed the clan members to one of the freighters, Rierden cursed. how in the Source's glory were they to find those really responsible?

* Onir= the Edenites security forces, similar to police/ intenral loose army. rarely really needed. think mostly the old movies british counstable, but a bit tougher.
** Genesis= capital city.


Sharing a memory
Erica Brium, the Voice of Many tried to relax as Joel Barrion, the jasmonite's face and long range traveller massged her body. You must relax Eri... the path demands these ventures and moves. i've never been so sure of anything more in my life!". Erica smiled to herself at the words of the enraptured man. ""I'm fine. things are getting a bit more complicated than most of our peace loving, mellow leaving flock would care for. the other nations, as you well know, do not share our outlook. this makes them... odd at best, monsterous at worst to our clan leaders."Joel's skilled hands and body soothed her "If anyone can shift their stance, you can." his touch began to become more demanding, more exploring, but Erica stopped him. "Perhaps later eager boy! but first i want to know more. have you done as i asked?" Joel Grimaced, but then smiled "I've taken the Membeding* drugs. i hate this, but you can share my memories. maybe you could find some leverage into these cultures that i haven't. i'm sorry to report that my ventures have gained few succeses." Erica rose, and oepned a small aclove to her left, taking out the Shaoin Threads** and started laying them in their places upong both their heads. "you should really go out to space one day Eri. there is so much to see!" Erica smiled "That remains your job Joel, mine is to make sure that space doesn't end us..."

I made a horrible Blunder with the Hegemony of Raghala. a truly grave mistake. this stemmed from not understanding other cultures better. i wish not to remake this mistake" The Shaoin threads were in place, both joined hands, closed their eyes, and concentrated.

The Wanderers (written with Random_person)

The Memory came quickly and sharply- the Membeding did that. as she looked through eyes that were not hers, but her lovers. she saw the flickering screen on the ship. people were moving about, Ashura's people, the captain. she tried to ease her own thoughts, and just concentrated on Joel's senstaions

That's a nasty substance you're taking" came Ashura's voice. "My mate back at Eden and I never tried it. we like our minds to remain our own." She, no- he, shivered in the cold of the ship. "I hope the new ships are coming soon. I love travleing the cosmos, but these old hulls sure are cold! But as to your question, i hate this too. everything is TOO heightened, and you end up with such a head ache when it stops. But what wouldn't i do for our Voice of Many?" he laughed, but she could also sense some of his thoughts through the Membeding, and knew his sarcasm. she smiled to herself- we all make sacrifices, i make greater. "We're entering the Garibaldi Cluster now. we should be upon the fleet soon enough".

there was the strange nauseating moment as the ship jumped slowed and shut down the Alcubierre drive. normal space returned. she felt Joel's muscles tense for a moment, but then relax. She could feel his excitment rising. this is what he was supposed to do, what he loved. he thought the main route to enlightment laid by meeting other people and cultures. learn from them, and evolve through them, hopefully helping in their enlightment as well. that is why he was perfect for the position.

A long range hail was cast, signaling the titan's indentity and port system. "What do you really know about these people?" asked Ashura. Joel and Erica could sense the twinge of fear and doubt in her voice Not much really, the Wanderes have kept fairly close to themselves. Erica called them through intermediates, but we thought to make a more personal engagement, get a bit of a feel about them, see if we may have anything in common." Joel shrugged his shoulders "That sort of thing, i'm hoping the path will enable us to find a mutual road together."

a response signal came, and the screen flickered again, to show the face of a simply dressed old man, with an inquiring glint in his eyes. Joel know who this must be. he put on his best smile, and spoke
"Ah, Malin Zinius of the Wanderers. i am Joel Barrion of the Jasmonites, their formal representative. I bring you good tidings from Eden and a hearty welcome. i have a special message for you, directly from our leader, Erica Brium."

(Erica rememebered the time she recorded that message, she watched Malin for any show of interest, through Joel's eys) "we the Jasmonites have learned little of your people, yet we feel a connection there-we migrate through our planets, looking for new experiences and challanges, while you travel the cosmos! we were lost on our initial path, but found a new home, while you have made yourself a home in space. we feel that, in a way, you too are followers of the path"
Erica laughed for a second "i am not trying to convert you, we just meant to say we feel somewhat of a kinship. we would like to extend our greeting even more, and call you to Eden. we think the Source and it's beneficial powers may help you in several ways- you are welcomed to our resources if you need them. we know that you may be in some trouble over that with the Geribaldi system. Also, as long term travelers in space, we welcome you to somewhat of a respite, a break down from hardships, if only for a little time. we welcome you with open hands and joyous souls."
(hmmmm... not even a twitch. these people either know how to hide their emotions well, or don't know how to express them. or is it that we are too used to easely shown emotions?) Joel seemed noonplussed though "i'd love to come abroad and maybe chat with you, or explains things if that need be. i'd love to share some stories of the universe and Wanderers' hospitality!"

Malin seemed to ponder for a few long, intense seconds. he then spoke

"Your hospitality is a welcome change of pace, and is returned with all due respect and gratitude. By all means join me on the Second Voyage for a time. We'll cruise in-system for a while, those of us that want to can visit you, and those that don't can show any of your citizens around that you think deserve it. We're in no rush for now: stay as long as you wish."

with that the communication ended. Arusha gave the few orders to bring them closer. As they neared the wanderers' fleet Erica could feel the wonderment and unease of the crew, and the excitment of Joel, as the fleet of the jasmonite was huge, disperse, and varied. they were many kind of ships, and from Joel's telling it is but a part of the real fleet. Joel spotted all kinds of ships he saw on different systems and nations- it seemed the Wanderers were extremley well traveled indeed. the pilot of the Second Voyage directed them, and they came close to it ("Their lightship utterly dwarfs ours." said a crew member in awe) and docked.

as the hatched opened, Joel walked in, with a few other jasmonite representatives who came to learn about other civilizations. Erica noticed various details- the wanderers congregated, even for jobs that suited a single person, they spoke freely into each other's word, making a confusing but enticing mishmash of words and sentences. it seemed that the more they were, the better they read each other's responses. The ship was made for living as well as being a flag ship. there were none crew people all around, even childrens, mothers, babies. Erica moved in her seat a bit uneasely- what would it be like to live in artifical surroundings all her life? she couldn't think to be seperated from Eden for long. Again she was glad at the choice of Joel, who just seemed to drink this all up, making casual conversation with people on his way to Malin. The ships were quite comfortable though, with many amenities to make sure the people lived well. Joel didn't get many responses in his attempted conversations though- most Wanderer groups picked up the conversation into the hubbub for a moment before it died, giving him off looks as he tried to make any sense of it. Joel was a bit perplexed by it, but tried to adjust. The Wanderers, in turn, seemed to try to adjust in response, but their hubbub remained as impenetrable as ever.

Malin's room was simple, finctional, yet with touches of tastefull luxury- objects and things he assembled from various regions of space. Erica noticed the sharp change- Malis was a man alone, without a group of people. apperently he learned to function in solitude as well. both men studied each other for a few more moments, before Malin offered a sit. Joel took it and sighed "been a bit of a long journey from our last port. space travel is new and exciting, but the parts between ports can be fairly dull. thank you for your hospitality". "You get used to it. space can be... welcoming to some. It's just space. What can i help you with? I'm a bit busy at the moment, sadly, so I really only have a few minutes: almost out of duct tape." the man seemed troubled. Sooooo... not much for diplomacy, or humor for that matter. ok, straightforwardness then. "We wish to help you in your current predicament. we wish to learn of your people, and you learn of ours. we wish to learn from you, and offer what we can in return. our people are great in spirit, perhaps they can enrich your lives in some way. you've visited many places in space, and seen many nations. sure there is something new you can get from Eden. i assure you it's a most special and unique place."

Malin seemed to ponder again. He took a short spherical object from his table, turned it over a few times lovingly. "This is called a compass. my father recieved it just before he left Sol, and gave it to me on my 20th birthday, allready on the Wanderer. it's suppsoed to help you make sure you always know where you are. a bit uselss in space though" he put the thing down, and Erica could feel the awe rising in Joel. Sol! the cradle of humanity! how old is Malin? "We tend to rely on ourselves, though we thank you for your offer. Noone could ever say that we weren't grateful for everything we got. As to mingling cultures, well. I don't know what good it can do, but it's not for me to decide. we don't have governors of primeminister or such. we just vote. i'll pass on this motion, see who wants to come to your Eden, and who doesn't. i wouldn't bet on it though, we have simple enough pleasures... feel free to explore our ship, you and your people. now, if you don't mind..." And with that, Malis quite simply motioned him to go.

Erica felt disppointment. dealing with the wanderers would prove more difficult than anticipated. her mind was distracted as Joel's memory ran over his encounters with the various wanderers, and as he sought to learn of their spiritual faith (they seemed to hold to some variation of the Sol's faith of Christianity. Erica sighed, their records had little information on that). suddenly there was a message all over the ship, from Malin. it also reached other ships, Joel was sure, but the last part of the message caught his attention- "Also initiate medium-term local vote in wing Alpha to administer aid to the Eden system in whatever form deemed appropriate. End command."

Joel rushed into Malin's Office "I... I... thank you! the jasmonites thank you for being their friend. i am fairly certain that our Voice of Many or Internal Handler could deal with the situation, but before they thank you, i wish to do so. your people have a fascinating culture, and we hope we can share ours with your people as well. we'd be honored to recieve you to the glorious Eden."
Joel laughed "but enough about that. i've given my message, and enjoyed your hospitality. you'll know where there are friends if yo need them. i must depart- we have far, far fewer light ships than you do, and i still have meetings to get to. please come one day, i'm sure our women at the least will be to your taste!" (Erica was a bit amused and angry at that last remark. certainly out of place! Men!) Joel moved back to the ship, greeted by Arusha. it was time to move on.


The Hepaestus


Erica pushed forward through the memories. the shapr memory of the Membeding drifted away as the drug's effect wore off. there were... impressions from there on- shades of emotion and thought, as most people's mind are filled with. Joel's mind had more powerfull currents than most, mostly of raw passion and curiousity. she felt somone else, it was familiar. hmmmm... so Arusha became his part time lover as well. the scoundrel! Erica smiled to herself and moved pass the erotic sensations, those were private, of a sort. he can have his fun, she certainly has hers!

one impression filled her though the vagueness of ther others- the loss, the distance, the disconnection from the source. everything seemed diminished. Joel was less affected by it, but the crew of the ship felt it deeply. it depressed them the longer they were away from Eden. Erica made a mental note- there has to be a fast turnover of space travellers. she wondered how this might hinder them in their new exploits.

she sensed the meeting with the other light ships. "what a laughable "fleet" we make, compared to the other worlds!" she thought. yet, actions are being taken to correct that.
onwards, onwards, towards the next Membeded memory. ah, here it comes!

Her senses bacame sharp again, and again she "saw" and "heard" through Joel's senses. she felt his distaste with the drug again. He was in Arusha's room, having just finished up dressing. the ship's second mate just announced dropping into a new region of space- Belphagor, and the hell planet Geneva. Joel looked himself at the mirror, and Erica saw his/her reflection smiling back. "Time to meet our cousins"

Joel walked to the ships's bridge. Arusha was allready there. they hailed the Cogs, as these people were called. Joel met one of their members briefly before- Jannet... some letters and a number. he'll have to make sure. these details were importent to the Cogs. "This is Joel Barrion, of the Jasmonites of Eden. we come with a great blessing upon you all, and wishing that our paths to join for awhile. we have come with our fleet of Lightbreakers, calling on your generous offer we bring various wonders and resources from the bountifull Eden in compensation. may we approach?"

Little time passed before an answer came "We are still finishing it, but you may approach. follow the marks on your screen to the right docks. expecting to see you shortly." Similar as wit hthe wanderers- always to the point.

As they approached the Junkyard, the Crew was amazed by it's size- a huge construct in space, like a tiny moon of fibers, beams, and other structural brilliance of which they haven't seen before. It was big indeed, and complex. yet Joel and the crew marveled- it showed great thought and creativity, of a differend kind than they were used to. they guided the few ancient lighthsip to their docks, and let the Junkyard's autamated system handle the mooring.

Joel closed the seals on his space suit. well this would be a first! as the hacth opened, he was greeted by another Cog, in a much more practical and present-times suit, holding unto a carbon fiber grid. she looked at him skeptically, but most of her attention was for the ship. "Hello again Joel. not such a long time since we met. We can surely help you, especially in the state of... your ships." It was Jannet Xk 305! the Cogs "diplomat" or "foreign affairs" person! Erica felt Joel's moderate attraction to her. but he remained focused. he laughed "you can call them what they are- tin buckets! the ships are the remains of our first voyage. we tried to maintain them, but we never improved them. but we knew the brilliance of Hephasteus would do wonders with them! i'm thrilled to see your work! Erica, the Voice of Many has sent many different resources from the wonderfull Eden, just a tsate of our own world's splendour. we hope they are a fit exchange for your expertise." Joel pushed himself onto the grid. he saw various Cogs moving around by thrusters or pulling themselves on fibers and grids. all were busy, all were working. Joel's memory and Erica's mind jumped to the same metaphor- of the Axiliel insects in their massive sea farming colonies. there was purpuse to the movement.

Jannet moved quickly over the grid, she called to one of the chief engineers, and conversed with him a bit on technical stuff which Joel didn't understand. she felt his gaze wondeirng about, at the workers trying to finish buidling this, but also at the machines, the numerous machines from every kind and size. after a minute or so he turned back at the engineer, who looked at the ship with an expression of mixed pain and loving "people just don't care for their machines like we do. this is a shame, a real shame, but we'll make a beauty out of her, sure will!" he gave a critical look to Joel, as if scolding a child for not eating supper "Just make sure you take good care of her afterwards!"

Jannet smiled, and motioned Joel to move on. she have shown him various parts of the Junkyard, ("I bet it was her idea for the name" thought Joel). she led him to the yard's quarters. Joel got a special beverage from his pack, and poured glasses. she was a bit suprised at this, as she poured herself water from the recyling unti at the wall. she accepted the drink, if a bit aprehensevely. "The cogs are a practical sort, a bit liek the Wanderers, but perhaps to a greater extrme. the luxuries of Eden won't be easely introduced or accepted by their society" thought Erica. "Such a great difference, yet maybe some similarities as well." Joel's thoughts echoed.

"our historians did indeed find your ancient ship's name on our records, as you suggested Jannet. i'm proud to be related to the Hephasteus, even if only by far. your people seem resilient with great work ethics. our people are more devoted to a spiritual path, but one that can offer your people great enlightment and progress. but it is for you to decide, i'll not try to force the subject on you. i think our people can learn a great deal from each other, and evolve." Jannet obviously wasn't that impressed. "Come to Eden, you and other Cogs. give us a try, see what we can offer." Jannet sighed "Though i welcome and appreciate your intentions, we try to be self sufficient, and have enough of spiritual wealth for our needs. but perhaps, in the future, there might be time for Eden. Geneva is a harsh world, but it brings the best in us, and our machines are challanged by it, so they "evolve" as well. we are content, so far, but we;ll keept the option open."

They were suddenly interupted by a child running into the hall, with a man and some sort of a spidery robot chasing her. the robot was elegant, beutifull in the making, almost seeming alive. Joel and Erica was both amazed. the man started to admonish the child. Joel, as curious as ever asked "what an amazing machine! did you made it?" he asked the man "no, i did!" said the child. this surprised Joel. she's so young! "um, and how do you call it?" "Four" came the answer. "because of it's 4 legs?" Joel felt awekward, out of his depth. "No, because i made 3 others before it" then the child ran away again, the man and "four" chaing her.

Jannet looked at Joel with understanding. "I told you our people know how to take care for themselves." Joel began to see the depth the gap between them. yet, he thought he may have seen some interest in Jannet eyes. (Erica was less sure). "Let me give you but a taste of what our world can offer. he rised and started closing his suit, "we have more than just luxuries, we have metals and minerals which may be used quite well by such inventive people as the Hephasteus"

As he led her to the cargo bays of the extra ships, he saw that work was allready underway. the Cogs worked with silent joy, very observent and meticulate, with such intensity that talked volumes to Joel- here they were alike. the Cogs in their work, and we in our spiritual pursuits and experiences. Jannet kept her resolve about most items loaded to the bays, and if she held any interest she kept it secret. always curteos, never offending, but never quite showing any real appreciation. that is, except for the ores. that sparked some glint of curiousity in her. might this be a winner?

Jannet was called on another matter. it seemed more were keen to take advanatage of the cogs engineering skills. Joel was led back to the quarters (no non-workers were allowed on the station without escort, due to safety). Erica scanend through his memory, and pushed forward, until the departure. JAnnet came to bid farewell, but gave no new answer. the cargo was accepted as exchange for the repairs though, and the Chief engineer gave the ships a pat before sending them away.
Joel sighed as he undid the space suit- "familiy ruinions are difficult"
.

Erica and Joel slowly took of the Shaoin Threads. "So, did it help?" he asked hopefully. Erica sighed, as she got up to get dressed Knowledge always helps, even if only to make you realize things are harder than you first imagined."

*Membeding drugs- a specially made, and highly expensive drug made by the jasmonite, that enable the embiber to remember the time under the drug's effect in extremley high clarity, including senses, thoughts and emotions. this impression wears off after about half a year.
** Shaoin Threads- again, a specially made Eden item- the threads connect two adjacent people's neural system, enabling one to navigate through the other's. eahc Shaoin threads' set is attuned to two people only. it is usually a gift to close intimate partners, supposed to enable them to explore each other's emotion and feelings, and thus help solve disputes. with the use of Membeding drugs one can actually experience through the other.

The Eden Resort


Some of the clan leaders gathered walked around in wonder, the place was massive! it could house tens of thousands of people! some nodded in disapprovement- the luxuries of this place were counter productive to the hardships needed to evolve. others nodded is approvement- as there were many subtle influences of the Twisted Path everywhere- from the entrance, to the rooms ,the food, the activities, everything.

Erica and Rierden welcomed them all in the main courtyard, planted with the most exotic plants of the Eden system, harbored by the weird and wonderfull animal life.
"Welcome! some of your clans worked to build and design this resort, while others have supplied materials both mundane and exotic. without you all, this oculd not have come to happen. I am glad to infomr you that we allready have a few visitors, some are independet first wave merchants, others from the wealthy Tawfret, a few from Solaris and the Soverign alliance, we even have booking for delgates of Sirius and Sol! this will indeed might turn into a hub of diplomacy and culture to the entire human race!" some leaders clapped, other remained unimpressed. Olarm, an old man (looking around in his 50s though) grunted. "We allready have become a "hub" for drugs for the other worlders! this will bring more and more of them here, and they might envy and desire Eden Bounty to themselves! what then? we cannot possibly face the armies such as the Empire or Raghala has! you will doom us all!" Rierden stepped in. "look, i don't like this either, but we have debated over this for long enough! a decision has been made, and this path we shall take. the drug buisiness has been handled, as you all have been reported. this venture might actually help us prepare for other world influences."

Erica looked at the assembly, she noted those who looked back, those who withdrew, and those who confronted. she made a mental note of each. there is a slight shift in opinions... hmmm. "We owe it to our people, and humanity in large to try this. we must open our wings and soar, knowing that there are predators out there. but the first step in surviving the predator, is knowing it, and maybe helping it know us. this is what this resort is here for. furthermore- The Evertwisting Path must find it's way to the hearts of the other worlders. Only then would our coming here truly fulfill it's goal. for this too this resort has been erected. As we have lived in clans, fought with each other, shared with each other, debated with aeach other and aligned with each other, so is my hope for the other clans in the Cosmos. let us bring out this message to them all!" she surveyed the leaders once more. a bit of change. not much, but it's a start. she clapped and the resort attendents arrived, taking the various leaders to various spots on the resort, for pleasure, spiritual challenge, or just relaxation. Erica looked at Rierden, who also seemed to have made the same notes. ""By the Source i hope you're right. but it will get harder from now on..."


To boldly go...


Joel Barrion and Rierden Jasmon talked little between them. as two powerfull leaders, formerly clan leaders before they took their new posts, and both being lovers of the same woman, there was an obvious tension between them. they were playing a war game called "Mountain Range", with no obvious sign of a winner yet. Joel seemed relaxed and at ease, while Rierden was silent and still.

finally they arrived at the site. they got of the vehicle, and looked upon a great field in which the new lightships were being put through their finall stages of assembly. "Are they as good as the ones refitted by the Hephastus?" asked Rierden. "Can't really say, haven't travelled in them yet. Horasia is in love with them. they are newer, and have jasmonites inginuity, but the Cog's regard to machines is like ours to the spirt- it's an art form to them. it would be interesting to see how they work."

Since the venture into the stars, new ships were made, so more jasmonites could visit other places, and so that trade could be easier faciliated. these represented another step into the universe. Do you really think we're meant to go out there? i heard that the Source is missing in space. is it true?" Rierden was curious, yet a bit frightened of the answer. it took Joel some time to master a reply "the source IS missing when yougo out. and i can't say i got used to it. when i enetered the Eden system, within minutes i felt better. but i child too fears to live his parents embrace, and find it odd without them. yet in order to mature, he has too... so do we." suddenly the ground shook, and the first finished lightbreaker took off to the sky...


i hope you enjoyed!

[Kol Korran]

Turn 2
Genesis, Private chambers of Erica Brium, Voice of Many

"Have you totally lost your senses?!? you invited the WHOLE Wanderers fleet to Eden?! one of the two biggest star fleet?! without our defenses ready?! when are they to arrive?" Rierden was fuming. Erica looked calm though "We've discussed this you know. contacting the Wanderers and offering them our assistence and collaboration was decided and finalized on the Great Debate." Rierden looked through the images of the communication, still angry, until he found his answer.


The face of a mature beautifull woman appears on the screen.

Malin Zinius of the wanderers, i have heard your troubles haven't ceased. in the spirit of friendship i offer to try and send you sufficient resources to amend your problem. we ask of nothing in return, this is out of a sense of kinship. may our paths join, and enlightment come upon us!

Erica Brium, Voice of many of the Jasmonites

A few moments later a message comes through.

"We are truly grateful for your assistance, and at this point will take any help that we can get. Shall we meet in your system, at the fringes, or somewhere else entirely? It is up to you: we'll be there as soon as we can.

And, of course, we will offer anything that we can in the future to the people who we hope will become our long-standing allies."

Erica Brium contacts you, with a content face "I am glad that we may offer help. If you can arrive at our system it ould be best. though if you wish to remain where you are, we shall try to send as many resources as possible, though our small light fleet may be of hindrance"

"Your system will be fine. We will be there in a matter of days."

A few days?! they move fast when they need to! i hope these are not Eden's last few days. the clan leaders agreed to lend them help, not to bring them here! we'll have to alert them, and you better expect another debate when the Wanderers enourmeous fleets cloud our skies!" Erica narrowed her eyes ""We'll just have to decide faster then, won't we? wouldn't want to keep our guests waiting. and they ARE our guests."

We'll see Voice of Many, we'll see what the many will decide"

----------------
Belphagor

Joel spoke to the team of cultural consultants on abord the light ship."So we're ready, your job is to Understand the Cogs, their culture, what they have to offer what qualities and inspiration can be driven from them. as far as i know the Hephasteus, this shouldn't be much of the problem- jsut look at this ship to see their handywork. be ready for harsh living conditions- this is no Eden. you are our pioneers with these people, make us proud" he then sent a hail to the colony "the Jasmonite team is ready to approach Geneva, and render assitance. coming in"

OOC:

so far these are my only two actions, but there might be another one, depending on interactions with another system.

Create temp aspect "Eden resources forthe Wanderers fleet"
+3 resources
-1 negative aspect "think, then act"- the clan lords need to debate about this surprising turn over.
-1 two actions (might be increased to -2 for 3 actions. the roll assume 2 actions)
added to 4d3-8 it's 4d3-7

lets roll: [roll0]
Edit: hell! sorry Random_person... :smallfrown:

Create temp aspect "Jasmonite cultural consultants"
+4 culture
-1 two actions (as above)
the roll is 4d3-5
lets roll: [roll1]
Edit: use them well Kessler, use them well...
here goes nothing...


Kol.

[Kessler]

Hepheastus


Seven Stars Entertainment

In association with Jasmonites Department of Culture


Presents


A story of love... A battle for survival... Epic space action...


Two Ships, One Destiny.



The Cross of Stars


The movie opens in the time of the first Alcubierre Ships. A man and a woman decide to leave for the new world. They meet at a ball, held before the colonization fleet’s lunch and fall in love. The next day it turns out that they will be on different ships - one is on Hephaestus, the other one is on Eden. So they exchange mementos and wait for the ships to arrive to their destination, where they can be reunited. Unfortunately an anomaly disrupts the travel and sends the ships into different direction.

The events switch between their trials on two different worlds – the paradise Eden and hellish Belphagor. Generations change and the memento they exchanged is passed down to their children and their children’s children.

The two descendants of the original lovers meet, when two ships collide in a spectacular catastrophe. The survivors need to act fast to salvage a single ship, from the remains of two broken or they will perish in space. The people of Hephaestus and people of Eden meet for the first time and each perceives the other with prejudice and mistrust. The Hephaestus ship chief engineer and the Eden’s captain clash because of their different ideologies, one values the machines over humans, the other holds all human life sacred. Yet when it seems all is lost they recognize the mementos left to them by their ancestors and decide to trust each other. By working together their ships and crews are saved and the story that began hundreds of years ago comes to a conclusion.




Roll


Intent: create temporary Aspect Movie: Cross of Stars

Culture: 2
Linked Attribute, Diplomacy: +1 (using Hepheastus influence and contacts to promote the movie)
Jasmonite Consultants: +2 (free tag)
Total: 5
Roll: [roll0]
Result: 4

Ok. I want to shoot a love story on the scale of ''Titanic'' in space and lace it with subtle, but powerful propaganda of Hepheastus as ''good guys'' and also push a bit of Jasmonite's values.

Notes on the Movie:

There is a footage of the real ships, constructed by the Cog engineers specifically for this movie. The Jasmonite consultants make the plot to include common elements of the different cultures, so it will be universally understood and accepted. The ills of the Cog's society are shown, but not concentrated on. The good aspects are presented to show how Cogs live a simple, honest lives, united together against hardships of their world. The ending is made to show that Cogs have learned greater compassion from the Jasmonites, implying the ills of Cogs society would be cured in the bright future.

Jasmonite's teachings are simplified, so general public could understand them easier. The general message of their teachings remains the same. The fact that Eden is a pristine world, while Belphagor is a hellish one isn't used against them, instead showing Jasmonites battling different trials of ethics and morality. In the end they are shown to hold higher moral ground (but lack in ''down to earth, everyday Joe'' quality of Cogs) that they use to guide Cogs to a better understanding.

[Johel]

The holographic projection came to an end as the last line of the credits reached the matrix. The room's light were lit again, revealing the very private audience that had been watching the film : barely two dozen people, divided between the bodyguards, who got bored half way because of the lack of "action" scenes, and the clerks, too busy taking various notes while their masters, the two people who really mattered, sat in utter silence.

"-Your thoughts ?"
Katharina Pawlak, as usual, opened the discussion in an uncommitted way. Yet, her tone let out her mild skepticism. Her interlocutor, a small man, barely 5 feet tall, smiled, an exercise that stretched the narrow scar that ran from the top of his left eyebrow down to his chin. A "souvenir de jeunesse", as they said on old Earth.
"-I ain't psychologist or so. But if those Janists are really half as naives as they are in that movie, it's gonna be happy looting time for the boys !!"
Katharina didn't comment straight away the blunt, yet wise words of Peter Ruttger, Chief Security Officer of the Partnership.

An old mercenary, the man couldn't care less for the politically correct ways of the board meetings. Neither was he a scientific genius. Yet, he wasn't dumb and had a special kind of cunning, similar to the one displayed by apex predators. He knew his strengths and was good at assessing those of his peers, preys and competitors. Katharina had chosen him years ago to run the security forces of the system...and she was pleased with his methods.

"-I mean, come on !! Ya saw how the chick agreed to go on board that broken cog ship, just like that, without an escort or even a basic scan ? Just because she had...how they call it again ?"
"-Faith."
"-Yeah, that's the thing !! Man, if she had been boarding MY vessel, I sure WOULD have search that rack for hidden weapons. Know what I mean, eh ?"
Yes, she knew but chose to ignore the last remark while the bodyguards chuckled.
"-Our intelligence told us that their planet is indeed quite a jewel. Very similar to Earth, bearing several carbon-based alien lifeforms, along with many of the standard terraforming ones. Large mineral and organic resources, conveniently spread on the very surface. Even with the fastest methods, it would still take centuries to harvest all profitable resources."
"-That's the thing of the partners, not mine. What I wanna know is simple : D'ya want it or not ?"
"-It's more complicated that a simple grab and..."
"-M'aaaaam !! remember to who ya speaking !! I've been staging all those nasty "people's self-determination" strikes in da Belt colonies, back in the good old days. If ya can find me immigrants, I bet ya my yearly wages that this little green pebble soon going to smell the perfume of revolution. My Intel told me those freaky hippies welcomed a whole fleet of those damn trekkers, without even checking them first. Piece of cake, I tell ya !!"

As the discussion progressed, it became more and more down to earth and soon, the chairwoman and the CSO discussed the very details of their plan. A plan who would soon be put in motion.




##Interstellar Press Release##
Petition for the "Babylon" Project
Kim Iladro, junior partner of the Tawfret Partnership, is currently touring the main organizations based in the Tawfret system, along with several outersystem powers, searching for financial and political support.
The aim is to have the partnership adoptthe "Babylon" project.

Basically, the project follows the Jasmonite opening of their borders to potential colons.
Partner Kim Iladro would like for the Partnership to federate a colonization effort on Eden, notably by using the Lightships of Tawfret to carry volunteers from the poorest systems to the system of Eden.

[Fortuna]

Malin gazed moodily at the screens around him. The economic crisis held on the very edge of stability, although he had found another roll of duct tape. This latest release, though... disturbed him.

"Initiate medium-term fleet-wide vote for Action 4 regarding the Jasmonites and Action 2 regarding the Tawfret partnership. Attach a copy of press release obtained at 10:58 SWIT. End command."

[Kol Korran]

Rierden tapped his fingers, while the clan leaders were assembled quickly. not all could arrive from their planets, so the conference was held through relays and monitors. finally, a signal was given to start. Rierden rose and spoke "You have all heard of the Tawfret release. we want first to reassure you we offered no such suggestion, this is some sort of game on their hand. some... friction with other world colonies was bound to happen. we're here to discuss and decide. however, we must decide fairly fast, as this cannot simply go unanswered. yes, Clan Leadr Isato of the Husani Clan."

"We allready have a whole fleet of outsiders at our doorstep, flying over our heads! what about them?" Erica rose "The wanderers were invited due to a serious immediate crisis of their people. this is not the same wit hthe Tawfret partnership. the Wanderers did not impose themselves they were greeted to come. as to why? this was discussed at the Great Debate- some of the civilizations out there share some similarity in their out look with the twisted path, and there for some kinship to us as well. the Wanderers could have allready attacked, but they have refrained from doing so. the mystics and wise men have analyzed this, and proposed a path of friendship with them, and a few others of which you have been reported, the Hephasteus amongst them. I ask the council to give me their advice as to how to act about this impediment we've crossed. your voice shall be made mine. Yes, clan leader Hamyo from the Okili clan."

"What if we accpet? i've learned abit about those mongrels calling themselves the Tawfret partnership- a vicious gathering of scum and villany. their poor are desperate for something to believe in. their values wouldn't stand up to ours. the path will show itself to them, and they too will join it's twists and turns. wasn't this what we were set to do? to spread the faith?"

clan leaders Horrasia, the fleet commander spoke next "They are bound to infiltrate spies and operatives. remember the Hypno drug? we still don't know who's responsible for that. it may be them! the Tawfret scoundrels are rumored to be quite crafty and underhanded. i wouldn't underestimate them. besides- Eden cannot afford to be subjugated to their wastefull and harmfull technologies. i won't stand for it!"

the clan leaders started to all talk at once, and an uproar went. Erica waited a bit before calming it down. "both of you have a point. but we need to act diplomatically here. this may turn out for an opportunity. let us talk this through..."

the discussion continued for awhile longer, till a vote was made over a plan.



InterStellar transmission, to any recpetive station. (concerning the "Babylon" project
(Eirca Brium, the voice of Many, smiles and speaks) "We welcome the Tawfret partnership at seeing the potential benefits of interwining their destiny with the twisted path of the Jasmonite. we do however have to amend some... confusion that may have occured. The system of Eden is opne to visitors and pilgrimage, as it is a holy place, one that should be shared by all of humanity. It's custody however is left to the Jasmonite people, who have undergone spiritual training their whole life in order to live in equilibrium with the Source and Eden's bounty itself. though we would like to accomodate the entire species here, that is simply not possible, most notably due to it's unfortunate history of mal use of it's resources. The twisted path practice moderation, especially towards the treatment of Eden. introduction of new permenet population to the system would require some spiritual training and selection."

(Erica straightens out, and spread her arms) "In the spirit of friendship to the Tawfret partnership, we propose this: if you so value Eden and the Jasmonite beliefs, let a mission of jasmonite visit your worlds, and instill some of our values in the poorest of your people. we shall teach them, educate them, watch them evolve and grow into new people. some would wish to reatin the fine and unique values of the Tawfret. they will be excluded from living on our world. those who would embrave our ways, even partially, will be gladly welcomed to the bountifull Eden.

Another possibility would be to accept a small number of yours, as will be decided in further discussions, to an experimental integration- they will be split to small groups and mingle with the clans of of our people, to be taught our ways. again, if they wish to leave at the end of the period, we'll oblige, if they conform to our ways, they will be welcoome to stay.

And to all systems- any who wishes to visit our resort, or make a pilgrimage, is more than welcome. those wishing to become part of Eden, are encouraged to undergo the spiritual teachings of our people- they are sure to enrich your lives. though the start will be difficult, the rewards are numerous."

(Erica then lower her hands, and her head a little, as if sorrowfull, or apologizing, or perhaps... confronting?) "We do not seek to convert anyeone. as the Wanderers who visit us know. we seek to learn and evolve from you, and you learn and evolve from us. those are the teachings of our path. we honor your path, and request you honor ours. Eden must be cared for by those attuned to it, feeling the flow of the Source. it's bounties will be made tradable with all humanity, but the system itself is in jasmonite custody. in the name of all our people, all our clans and views, I Erica Brium, the Voice of Many, wishes all of you good tidings, learning, and growth."

[Johel]

{OPENING LINK}
{REUTERS HYPERNET FEED}
Good night, day or cycle, whenever you are, fellow humans !! And immediately, the news :
The market is in panic as Mitsubishi Hyperspace calls back no less than 4.000 ships of its last brand. Apparently, problems in the antimatter control field led to the self-destruction of one vessel yesterday, vaporizing the ship, the crew...and the whole space station it was anchored to.
{DO YOU WANT TO KNOW MORE ?}

More patriotic speech in Pan-Jovia and Eridani, as military actions against some of the border systems is still discussed. Since its declaration for an Defensive Pact among the outer colonies, the Order of Black Star hasn't given any other official statement, despite most of the political attacks being aimed at him. Various other colonies and organizations reaffirmed either their loyalty toward Sol or their neutrality and desire for peace.
{DO YOU WANT TO KNOW MORE ?}


It has been a month, now, since we all heard of Eden. First through a surprising speech to open their "cultural resort", then through the already multi-oscar film, "The Cross of Stars". Having seen the movie, some people seems to want to visit the cultural resort and even settle on Eden itself. However, things are not that simple...
{DO YOU WANT TO KNOW MORE ?}


{HYPERNET LINK SELECTED}
{OPENING LINK}
The hologram displays the circular room, full of well-dressed people, sitting around a great holographic matrix. The computer identifies the place as the "Council Room of J-0047". More side search on J-0047 reveal it's a large asteroid colony in the Tawfret system, with around 100.000 inhabitants.

A man stands up while the computer displays his name : Kim Iladro. The man feeds a disk to his personal consol. Soon, the matrix at the center of the room is lit with the holo-image of a group of Jasmonites.
"Greetings fellow settlers of the Cosmos. long have we all been divided. yet here on Eden we believe that there is a place for any perspective, a reason for any path, a room for everyone. In Eden we welcome you, to a new fabulous center of culture and commerce, a resort of matter and spirit, in which you can enjoy the bounty of Eden, as well as her supreme entertainment, artistic, spiritual and influential wealth."
The image dies. Kim speaks :
"-This was one month ago, ladies and gentlemen. One month ago, as nobody even knew of them, they basically opened their arms, asking for migrants to come, saying there was, I quote, "a place for any perspective, a room for everyone".
"I don't know for you, but unless those Jasmonite want to play with the letter of their words like some Terran lawyer, the message is pretty clear : they wanted people to come and settle, whatever their believes. They opened their borders and agreed to TRADE ideas and goods. Trade, my dear councilmen, as we know, involve an exchange, with both sides giving and both sides receiving."
"Yet, in her last statement, Eirca Brium seems to have her own, personal definition of it. While she does say her people don't want to convert anybody, she also states pretty clearly that those who won't embrace the Jasmonite values, I quote, "will be excluded from living on our world."
"To me, this doesn't sound like a very open-minded, democratic attitude. While it is understandable for a impoverished and overcrowded colony set an immigration quota for obvious practical reasons, said colony won't brag about her "bounties" and broadcast an interstellar welcome to all potential migrants. But then, we aren't speaking of an impoverished colony but of a planet whose biodiversity is equal if not superior to the one of Earth before the nuclear age !! A planet with barely more colons than this whole system !! While the ecosystem could house at least ten times as much and still be healthy !!"
The matrix displays an orbital, rotating image of Eden.
"-Mrs Brium, despite her claims, sounds to me like a dangerous fanatic and xenophobic person, incapable to hold her word or to tolarete another point of view. Hence the fact that the limits she just put to immigration aren't based on hard facts such as qualification of applicants, but on their very ideologies !!"
"Dear councilmen, we know the state of J-0047. We know that, in two decades, the mining operation won't be profitable and that it will then be time for you to resettle. Do you want then to find doors closed because of your ideologies ? I don't think so !! I don't think ANY colony, no, that ANY human want to be forbidden to settle somewhere because of his ideas. Some might view this system as a nest of outlaws but at least, we got the freedom of speech and the freedom of thought, goddamnit !!
And for this reason, I ask your support !! I ask that the J-0047 Syndicate back me up when I'll submit the Babylon project to the Partnership !!"
The room burst into cheers as Kim Iladro sit back.


****

At the same time, Rexor Timmermans, another partner, back on TW-008, protested of Mr. Kim's vigorous statements, reminding the galaxy that the project was merely just a draft and that its content, having not been approved by the partners yet, doesn't reflect the position of the Tawfret Partnership as a whole.

[Ambon]

The Constellation

David on Eden (Fluff) David Sheffield's Log
Diplomatic Mission to Eden, Day 30

I am convinced of one thing after visiting Eden: that all gardens, from ancient Babylon on Sol to the private enclosures of Tawfret oligarchs, are mere shadows of this planet. We've all worked in centuries of ignorance to build what the Jasmonites have found here, waiting for them all this time. It's no surprise to me that so many resisted Brium's position on the Great Debate, though, for what it's worth I'm glad she won. I wouldn't be here otherwise.

Still, while the wonders of Eden are innumerable they are not all benign. The Jasmonite's faith in the Source is one, as is the Source itself. I recognize in their doctrine a great deal from our own concepts of ecophany and deep ecology, but they have gone so much further. The Source acts. It was a will. At first, it seemed to be a classic case of what Illych used to call anthropomorphism - something he accused me of many times. A tendency to personify the landscape, not unlike the kami or the manitou of ancient Sol. This by itself would mean that many in the Constellation would find the Jasmonites as disturbing as they do fascinating. But what's truly strange is that on Eden, it seems true.

The sterility of the population... the persistent and system-wide psychological effect... even an odd warmth that our team noticed as we stepped on-planet. It's much more than what I can attribute to the Jasmonite's adaptation to their environment. It is a problem that goes beyond present Jasmonite biotech, a discipline which has gone underdeveloped on the bounty of Eden.

I'm due for a meeting with the others. I will recommend an extension of our diplomatic mission to Eden, and to open negotiations for a Ecological Syndic branch to be established on Eden to investigate the Source.

A Meeting (more fluff)
Aboard the Guns, Germs and Steel, in the Gamelan system

Since the meeting began, Kingwell had a strong sense of deja vu. They limited themselves to video since Sheffield and de la Cruz were out-of-system, eschewing the more advanced cybernetics that had become commonplace. His body remembered this feeling, standing in front of an array of screens projecting the faces of this closest friends and allies in unflattering detail. Only now, instead of broadcasting in bunkers and hideouts, they were (or at least some of them were) on lightships scattered across the Second Wave worlds. And the faces were older, more wearied with their expressions. It was surreal but survivable, the march of time.

He shook off the feeling and turned his attention to the meeting, which had already gone on long.

As usual, they didn't see eye to eye. Old faces argued with old faces, while young faces (actually just one, the Councilor Abu-Lughod) tried to mediate. Sheffield and Goldman were going on about the Jasmonites - about whether or not they were the miracle working saviours or cultists who were liable to get themselves, and us along with them, annexed by the Tawfret or Sol. And the pirates remained, though they were contained.

"The Jasmonites have generously offered --"

Goldman cut off Sheffield with a gesture. "We don't and shouldn't need their help or the Cogs!"

"Tess, what's done is done. We needed allies more than we needed a fleet," de la Cruz said, defending the Lightship purchase.

"And it's working! We have potential friends among the Jasmonites."

"Who are going to have their hands full with the Tawfret, David. The Cogs have offered us clear terms."

"The Cogs are arms dealers and opportunists!"

And on it went, familiar and unpleasant to everyone there, until Abu-Lughod broke in.

"Look, we're not deciding anything here - that's up to the Constellation and the Council - so there's no point in arguing over details or the past. We're here to share information. What do you think, Ash?"

He nodded to her in acknowledgment. "I'm prepared to deal with the pirates diplomatically and militarily. Everything else, like Mariam said, is up to the reps."

Inwardly, he sighed. Everyone was instantly unhappy with his answer. Sheffield threw his hands up in frustration, perceiving some insult against his proposal and the Jasmonites and cut off his link. De la Cruz, who normally would have been happy with Kingwell's diplomatic efforts, scoffed at Sheffield's reaction cut off his own link in delayed retaliation. And Goldman, who was unhappy that they had to have this discussion at all, swore profusely and cut off her link.

Only Mariam remained, smiling. "I'll get our ships and the Cog equipment ready, and talk to the others about Dave's science proposal. Good luck, Ash." She signed off.

Kingwell returned to the bridge of the lightship. Composing himself, and preparing his sternest look, he opened a channel to the pirate fleet.

A Message to the Pirate Fleet (action relevant fluff!)
By now, you'll realize that we're not at all defenseless. Our fleet is fully prepared to wipe you out. So, by the looks of it, you and your people have two options.

One: You can die in the cold of space. You're lightship isn't going anywhere. You can die when we blow your cruisers out of our space, or when that time bomb you call a lightship finally blows - and I assure you we've got the means to make that happen - or when your supplies run out and you starve, and I can make a nice profit selling your tombs to the Cogs for scrap.

Two: You can surrender and live. We're willing to offer you amnesty. We're keeping your ships but you're free to become citizens of the Constellation regardless of your pasts. Or, if you want, you get leave.

Those are our terms. Nothing else. What do you say?

Actions

5/5 Fate points (I refunded myself the one I spent tapping Scientists At War last turn since it didn't count)

2nd turn, spending the +1 attribute I have on Fleet to bring it from 0 to 1

Action 1
Diplomatic Action: Demand surrender of pirates!
Modifiers: -8 (Base), +0 (Diplomacy[0]), +1 (Fleet[1] synergy, using it to intimidate), -1 (For two actions) = Total is -8
[roll0]

Action 2
Fleet Action: Attack pirates if demand of surrender fails.
Modifiers: -8 (Base), +1 (Fleet[1]), +1 (Leadership synergy[4]), +2 (tagging Space Junkyard aspect from the Cogs, cost 1 Fate point), -1 (For two actions)= Total -5
[roll1]
4/5 Fate points

[Storm Bringer]

Mikal Cyrus (called 'the great' by one and all, party in reference to the ancient Persian Emperor his family took it's name form, and party in recognition of his status as one of the most skilled naval commanders in the Union, and quite possibly the galaxy),Feet-captain of the Union of Bowman, sat on his flag bridge onboard the UNV Truth and Reconciliation, his flagship.

the Truth was a mighty vessel, and large: her main hull ran just short of a mile the barrel of its spinal mounted PPC running almost the entire length. She was one of the largest ships in the bowman navy, and matched in size by only a handful of ships in other navys. Most class b ships were smaller. You could build more of them for the same cost, and you could carry more of them on a Heighliner to whever you were going. But that didn't make the Truth a white elephant. That mile long PPC had an immense reach, allowing Cyrus to strike at targets far beyond their own range and either force a fleeing enermy to turn and face him or make a persuer back off and give ground. she was a real assest if you knew how to use her, and Cyrus knew how to use her. He'd practically rewritten the Unions tactical doctrine in his long carrer.


at this point in time, the Truth and Reconciliation was just readying for turnover on it's burn in-system, and had reached it's peak velocity. in about an hour, it would flip over and begin to break into a high orbit over Pennnace in about two days time. behind her in a loose formation came the 23 ships of his fleet, and the 4 freighters that he was escourting.

As of yet, he'd recieved no relpy to his transmission, but that wasn't unexpected. two and a half dozen ships turning up in orbit was enough to give anyone pause for thought, and thier taking thier time to think about thier answer was expected. Cyrus didn't expect an answer until he entered orbit.

His intellgience briefings on the Evolved had been....brief. the Union intel arms had only a limited idea of how far the evoloved had taken thier biological replacments. intel had seen those hard-shelled bio-ships of theirs, and were impressed, but they didn't have many hard facts about what those things could do. part of his mission was to see just what the evloved could do to with their super bio-tech.

Well, in two days he'd be able to see if all those wild stories were true or not.....

[Johel]

Tawfret Partnership

{BEGINNING TRANSMISSION}

You are watching... GNN !!

New monthly voting cession for the Partnership. And an important one, as it's not less than 2 former projects that have been brought forward after their initiators gathered once more the necessary signatures for their petition. More about it with Sarah Jenkins.


****

Thank you, John !!
Two major topics here, on TW-008.

First, a very controversial weaponry program has just been adopted.
It would have gone unnoticed if it wasn't for the scale of the funding. Indeed, no less than 23 major organizations swore to support Light Foundation and Mitsubishi Hyperspace in this venture, hoping to get their share of the cake. Some say that this contract is a blessing for Mitsubishi, especially since the "antimatter scandal" of last week. It might help the corporation to avoid bankruptcy.

While the Partnership is known to be ruthless in its dealings, let's bear in mind it never used open military actions against a legitimate system. This vote is therefor a unprecedented event. And it happens just when several systems, among whom Eridani and Pan-Jovia, are muscling up, speaking of "police actions" against the Tawfret system. What will be the consequences ? Will the Eridanian see this as a additional threat and haste their military preparative ? Or will they reconsider their position to avoid casualties ? We don't know !!

What we do know is that, with the Partnership's know-how regarding superconductors and energy manipulation, the result of this program might be scary if it reaches completion.
This, combined with a large low-cost fleet of warships, would probably have scared even Pan-Jovia. However, the Cogs really don't have any success in Tawfret, as the quality certification has one more been rejected.

Second, the matter of Eden. This young border system had become famous recently and several people have been looking at it with hope...but also with greed.

It seems that greed is finally going to win the day, but not as we initially thought : during the debate, Senior Partner Tobias Smith pointed some reserves as to the profitability of the operation proposed by junior partner Kim Iladro. Hence, no interstellar line is going to open from Tawfret to Eden. That's it, not until that little paradise is scanned and studied in details. A costly operation that didn't get the expected support. Yet, given the importance of the electronic industry in Tawfret, we can be sure the project will be adopted soon or later.

On minor affairs...
{TRANSMISSION LOST}

Project "Fiery Cloud" (Engineering)
Subcontracted to : Light Foundation, Mitsubishi Hyperspace
Aim : Increase Tawfret's home defense capability. Exact details available for partners only.

Primary aim is to produce enough firepower to wipe out incoming fleets.
Secondary aim is to increase energy efficiency.
Tertiary aim is to reduce the size of the weapon itself.

[roll0]
201-250 : the project is accepted and receive impressive support. Faith point can be used for its completion but not the Power attribute synergy.

Project "Babylon" (Lightship)+synergy (Fleet)
Subcontracted to : Wormhole Delivery, J-0047 Syndicate
Aim : Favor migration to the system of Eden, in order to ease the installation of an industrial infrastructure.

Primary aim is to gather a few Lightships to ferry migrants to the Eden system.
Secondary aim is to ferry a steady inflow of migrants.
Tertiary aim is to set orbital facilities with old spaceships before the beginning of colonization.

[roll1]
051-100 : the project is rejected but will be voted again soon with +25 on the roll.

Hephaestus Maintenance Certification (Leadership)
Subcontracted to : Hephaestus Space Junk Yard
Aim : Standardize the quality standards of Tawfret's fleet and of most ships cruising through the system.

Primary aim is the introduction of a future certification.
Secondary aim is the effective enforcement of such certification.
Tertiary aim is to make such temporary regulation into a permanent one.

[roll2]
051-100 : the project is rejected but will be voted again soon with +25 on the roll.

Project "Sky Eye" (Espionage)+synergy (Computing)
Subcontracted to : Sonara Hydroponic, Fitzburg Electronic
Aim : Scan the planet Eden to locate from orbit the most interesting locations for large-scale mining, agriculture and settlement.

Primary aim is to locate the major population centers and exploitations, if any.
Secondary aim is to locate and analyze all population centers and exploitations.
Tertiary aim is to locate potential sites. This includes a multi spectral geological scan along with high-resolution biological analyze.

[roll3]
101-150 : the project is rejected by the Partnership but private sponsors will give it a try. +50 on the next roll.

Action rolls for Turn 2 (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showpost.php?p=7983274&postcount=36)

[aravier]

The Sovereign Alliance, Caravellion

"...So, we're on the wrong side of a call to arms, with Cultists still at large, and the systems of the Alliance ready to pull apart at the seams regardless of either!" Holt sighed loudly, sinking into his chair, looking down into a data-slate built into his table. With a careless flick of his finger over the smooth screen, the news articles were cast to one side, revealing the system of Caravellion. Orbiting slowly round the central star, the planets seemed at odds with the frenic activity that governed them; slow, purposeful, and aloof.
"That's the long and short of it, sir" Hellen responded, the diplomat joining Alexander in his morose mood. "Needless to say, Minister Mulby is having a field day. She's proposing a more aggressive stance on these 'renegade' Second-wavers, and a restoration of Sols Dominance."
"But that's a sure fire way to have our system destroyed, and I will not allow that." Holt stood up, walking to a window, looking out at the city around him. "For now, we play ball. As for those Cultists...Well, we'll see what we can do..."

Actions for turn 2
Holt will muster the security forces on the colonies to try and recover -anything- about the origin of these cultists; system, nationality, literally anything.

Espionage: 1
Temporary Aspect (Sol Dossier): +2

[roll0]
[roll1]
[roll2]
[roll3]

Result: +1. Well, that sucked ;D

[Narkis]

Imperial Palace, Planet Home, Perun System

"I see everything is ready, everyone is prepared. Well done, my son. You've completed our preparations ahead of even the most optimistic projections."
"Thank you father. It wasn't so hard as you make it sound. Our people were quick to hear the call."
"Nevertheless, you did a great job. But there's no time to rest. I have another task for you. Read these."
"They are from..."
"Yes"
"And you agreed to..."
"Yes"
"Are you insane? Have you completely lost your mind? Do you know the stories? What these peopleare capable of? Why they were exiled?"
"The answers are no, no, yes, yes and yes."
"Then why? Why?"
"You have answered this question yourself. I know what these people are capable of. And we..."
"They are monsters! They create monsters! You can't..."
"Even monsters have their uses. You have seen the enemy fleets. I guarantee, this is not the full extent of their power. We cannot defeat them on our own. We need allies. We..."
"...don't need them!"
"I have made my decision. I will not change it now. I want you to pick the people who will be sent. But I can find someone else to do it, if you will not."
"I will do as you wish, father. If I may be excused now?"
"Yes, go. I have one more thing to take care off."


Transmission to the foreign fleets in Perun:

People of Sol and Eridani. This is Czar Paul the third. You have come a long way to impose your masters' will. Perhaps you thought it would be easy. That we would fold like so many others before us. But you must have realized by now, you are not welcome here. Your arrogant demands will not be met. Never again will we bow before you. Perun belongs to the Empire. Leave us. Go home. Or you might not see your beloved world again.

Action 1: Give an "Imperial advisors and equipment" aspect to the Order of the Black Star

+4 Fleet
-1 Two actions
Total modifier: +3
[roll0]

Action 2: Demand that the Eridani and Sol fleets withdraw from Perun

+0 Diplomacy
+1 Leadership Synergy
-2 Vengeance is Mine aspect. Again, they will not like our tone. +1 Fate Points?
-1 Two actions this turn
Total modifier: -2
4d3-10

[Narkis]

No idea why that didn't work

Action 2: Demand that the Eridani and Sol fleets withdraw from Perun

+0 Diplomacy
+1 Leadership Synergy
-2 Vengeance is Mine aspect. Again, they will not like our tone. +1 Fate Points?
-1 Two actions this turn
Total modifier: -2
[roll0]

[Eldan]

The_JJ:

While more than a dozen of the smaller colonies issue statements citing that they are opposed to the increasing trade taxes and general arrogant behaviours coming from the inner worlds, they won't support you in case of war. They claim neutrality, or interior problems occupying them too much.

Fate point gained.


Random Person:

As you might have guessed, you don't find just about enough to keep everything running, but can't make any improvements.


Kol Korran:

There is an accident while loading the lightship intended for the wanderers: a transport crashes into the hull, which has to be repaired first, delaying the action for quite some time.

The aspect works well, though.


Kessler:

While the movie is well liked in the outer worlds, especially Belphagor, critics on the inner world call it "a tired cliché" and "nothing new". Still: it's popular enough that everyone has heard of it and knows the basic story.


Johel:

You create a huge laser, powered by an Alcubierre ship antimatter reactor re-purposed to releasing it's energy in bursts instead of keeping it up for months of travel time. The result is a weapon capable of cutting through ships without losing much of it's power, from several AU away. It's, quite frankly, the most powerful space weapon ever created, with an energy output rivalling a small nuclear arsenal.


Ambon:

The pirates laugh at your diplomatic attempt, stating, quite clearly, that they think that they can hide in the belts for all eternity if they have to.
Quite a boast, but far from true: you are, slowly but surely, hunting them down ship by ship, pressing them away from the sun and all inhabited space.


Aravier:

Your military and police forces try out new tactics, finally managing to catch two cultist agents alive by tranquillising them before the suicide systems can be activated, then surgically removing these systems. With the Sol dossier, you can identify one of them as belonging to a cult already known and defeated on Mars more than fifty years ago. You now have a good guess at the identity of the higher ranks of the cult, several martian suspects who escaped.
However, despite that little success, pressure from the cult is rising, and they have now issued a hard ultimatum and mailed you a list of detailed demands. To show how serious they are, a cult agent has committed suicide by blowing himself up, along with seven bystanders.


Narkis:

The aspect is given, that works okay.

Now, for your second action: the enemy ship respond in a cold but not hostile manner, stating that they demand to know what exactly happened to the Bridging Infinity, after that they are more than willing to depart your system in a peaceful manner and never return. However, they do demonstrate their power by opening their lightship hulls presenting the swarms of dozens of eridani standard 500m mass driver cannons packed within, along with a small battalion of cruisers.

This action is not a complete failure, and pretty similar to your last one, so I think I won't give you another fate point for it.


Galaxy News Network

And welcome back to News at Five, these are todays headlines:

Jordan Corlette, Senior Chairman of the First Wave Trade League announced that the Trade League will raise the export taxes on all biotechnology, weapon systems, electronic components, spaceships and luxury goods intended for second wave systems by 2.3% for first wave citizens and an unprecedented 4.9% for traders of the second wave. Due to expected tensions, they furthermore added a 1.9% tax on all goods from and to the Tawfret system, in order to encourage first wave traders, "in order to sell their wares to more respectable systems".

Eridani High Command reports that they have expanded their fleet by adding a third intervention task force, consisting of the newly built lightships Hammer and Anvil, Glory Everlasting, Killer of Men and Seraphim, each outfitted with a dozen Vyper super-heavy mass drivers and a battalion of cruisers. General Duško Pljaskovič said: "Our enemies may be investing in weapons, but so are we. Let them see that Eridani will repay every insult tenfold, and match every investment twice."

[Kol Korran]

Message to the Tawfret Company heads (sent also to other system heads)
"There seem to be some miscommunication between our people, as we hear of designs to colonize Eden, and also to survey and explore it's planets from space, and all of this without considering the Jasmonites, in a one sided approach.

The Jasmonite people would welcome the Tawfret people, but the place of the colony and it extent must abide by Jasmonite planning. also, the colonists will be checked to adhere to jsamonites belief and way of life. as the Empire, Raghalla, the Black Star, or many other nations won't accpet such reckless influence in their sphere, the Jasmonite do not ether. Eden is held sacred by it's people, and is revered as holy. Those who wish to settle it need not uphold the same level of reverence, but they should definetly understand it, respect it, and adjust accordingly. again, this is for Eden itself, we do not seek or require this to be the rule in every system, in fact we prefer not too. "for there is a place for everything" is a lesson taught by the twisted path, but there must be a place for Eden as well.

As to surveying our planets. we demand to know the exact purpose of this. Eden has survived as it is by carefull moderate use and respect for it's resources. any large scale industry, mining, farming and so on might disturb it's balance. any project at the Eden system must be approved by the councial of Clan leaders. any infringment on these terms will not be seen favourably.

Lastly, we feel there might be a way to bridge our differences, and learn from each other. if you are planning to go on with the coloniazation program we'd like to send a small group of Jasmonite to discuss the project and it's integration into jasmonite society. May our paths interwind, and may we find growth by our sharing."
-----------------------------

"Malin. The jasmonite clans have finally reached an agreement. and the frieghters have been asked. we're sending our help now. may the bounties of Eden solve your problems."

OOC:

I haven't thought of actions yet, except trying to help the wanderers again. since further actions might affect this, i'd prefer not to post actions yet.

[Johel]

Tawfret System, Scout Freighter CG-458-P6

...Eden has survived as it is by carefull moderate use and respect for it's resources. any large scale industry, mining, farming and so on might disturb it's balance. any project at the Eden system must be approved by the councial of Clan leaders. any infringement on these terms will not be seen favourably.

It was the third time Peter Ruttger heard the transmission, playing it on repeat on a small holographic projector. The man was leaning in a comfy chair, the kind most "private military contractors" don't get to enjoy, smoking one of those expansive cigar from Earth. The finest vices for the finest men...

In his office, somewhere between the decks of a cargo ship, the mercenary was holding a meeting with old friends. A bottle circled among them, its content far from refined but it did the job : broaden the mind.

Looking at the trembling image of Eirca Brium, Ruttger blew an heavy cloud of smoke, disturbing the transmission while the crew discussed among itself.

"-Lastly, we ... there might be a w... to br.............ences, and lea... from each other. if ... are planning to go on with the coloniazation program we'd like to send a small group of Jasmonite to..... the project and it's integration into jasm.... society. May our paths interwind, and may we find growth by our sharing."

"-Yeah, may that be, ect... I'd love to... interwind with ya, bitch. Some part of me has already find growth just by looking at ya !!"
The comment make the men laugh. The females to : they weren't exactly the prude type. No place for that in that business.

"-So, there we are, friends !! The white collars of the Partnership aren't ready to poor their sweet sweet money on us to ease the job. They want to know what's in for them, what they gotta stand against, ect... Yet, a-friend-of-mine-I-do-not-need-to-say-da-name..."
New laughers from the soldiers of fortune.
"-...is convinced it's worth it. Damn !! A whole freaking planet, with more blue and green than Earth itself !! 'course it's worth it !! Anyway, 'friend has spoken with her... I mean its own friends and, yeah, basically, they want us to be on stand by, ready to act."
"-Means we gottajob ?"
Ruttger crushed his cigar on the small holographic projector, killing the already weakened image.
"-Nop... Means we gotta have fun. They want a "diplomatic incident".


*****

{BEGINNING TRANSMISSION}

From : Tawfret Partnership, Tawfret System
To : Eirca Brium, Voice of Many, Eden System

Dear Madam,

Following the numerous rumors, it had been officially agreed that the present message should be addressed to your administration.

First, please note that Tawfret is a neutral and open system : no system-wide custom tax or border control are enforced. Any human being is free to visit or settle as he wishes. Autonomous communities and corporate facilities may have their own security rules but you do not need our permission to visit the system itself.

Second, the Tawfret Partnership's official stance regarding Eden is the same as for any system : neutrality. We seek trust and trade. The Partnership does not actively plan for colonization, although it is true that several organizations do lobby in favor of it. However, until said organizations can convince the partners as a whole, the Partnership shall support no colonization effort at all.

Finally, we would like to point that, while each of our citizens has his own goals and hopes in life, most see Eden as it presents itself : a paradise, holding the hope of a new beginning for mankind. It is then normal that curiosity pushes some of our citizens to wish to explore, study and even settle on Eden. It is this curiosity that decided us to accept your proposal. A Jasmonite delegation will be officially welcomed by the partners on TW-008, with accommodations to be arranged at your best convenience. We hope this will help to build trust between our people.

Katharina Pawlak,
Partnership Chairwoman

THIS FTL MESSAGE IS SPONSORED BY POWERTHIRST (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qRuNxHqwazs)
Powerthirst, the energy that will make you awesome !!
{TRANSMISSION LOST}

[Kol Korran]

To the Towfret partnership
Erica Brium appers smiling "I am glad that we can come to an understanding. the clan leaders are quite eager at this opportunity to share our ways with the Tawfret people. deliberations regarding the assembly of the delegation are underway, we shall send it on the next cosmic cycle, or sol month, to your system. communications regardgin the accomodations will be handled by our foreing ministery. Here to a mutually profitable future! Erica Brium, Voice of Many" Erica smiles and bows as the message dies out.
---------------------
Erica rose, the smile gone from her face like it never was. "a mutually profitable future? that is certainly not in the scripture. lying doesn't become you Erica" Rierden walked beside her, as they returned to the greater hall. "I have lied more than you know dear friend. that you don't think i have hopefully says something about how good i am at it. The Tawfret are up to something, hopefully this will but us a bit of time to think things through. not a lot, but a bit." Rierden pondered "Who should we send? Joel? the High priest? some one else?" Erica walked briskly, before meeting some of the clan leaders "I don't know, not yet, but i will..."
---------------------

James sat in the newly assigned meditation room abroad his ship. If only his friends back at Procyon would see him like this! they would laugh, but they don't yet understand! he will...
"Focus James, new born. you are lost between past and future, not yet fully living in the now. you must connect first to yourself before you can hope to truly connect with others." The Voice belonged to Valenya, his spiritual advisor, a most lovely Jasmonite he met on the Eden resort, who captured his mind and soul! she showed him the light she has! "This is difficult. ut my mind keep racing to other places." Valenya put a finger between his shoulder blades, and pressed a few points. immediatly he felt his mind relaxing, becoming a bit stupefied, empty to accept things. "This will help in the beginning, but you must learn to do it without my help. on Procyon my people will be busy, i will stay with you as much as i can, but we must reach the others. you will help with that, won't you?" "But of course! others must see the way as well! it makes things... well, not easier, not clearer, but more right!" Valenya smiled, and left the room as James returned to his meditation.

"How goes the progress?" asked the high priest through the link. "It goes well. i hope the other Showers of the Path will have the same success as i have... Um, teacher, we have heard the Voice Of Many messages. is this autherised by the clan leaders?" "It is autherised by the Source itself. the path must widen and grow. this is the reason why we came out of seclusion. we do not force anyone, but if they see the light of our ways, we had better make sure they fully understand. thus we are all teachers. May the path challange you and show you it's true meaning." Valenya hesitated "Not everyone is as welcoming as James of Procyon. there have been some at the resort who didn't see the path for what it is, and there will be even more resistence in the systems themselves, where the effect of Eden is less felt." it feels so empty here without it. her mind, clear and focused on Eden was lacking something... central, pivotal here in space. She was not acting at her best, and from the link with other Showers of Faith they report this phenomena too. she missed Eden greatly.
""The path may be hard, and you may recieve little help, yet it is worht taking. have faith in your leaders, and the plans we made for you. do not despair! the source blessing is upon you!" Valenya closed the link, and returned to the meditation room, where her newest protege was struggling with the basics of the path.
---------------

OOC:

First of all, since we all get a new aspect after 2 turns, then mine is "Ambassadors of Good Will" i think i have shown that with some dealings with others.
Actions:
1) give temporary apsect "Eden resources" to the Wanderers:
+3 resources
-1 two actions
all in all- 4d3-6
[roll0]
Edit: added an action later on in the phase ("get justice for the jasmonites") so there is an added -1, culminating in a result of 4

2) create temporary aspect "Spreading of the faith"- basically creating small cells of jasmonites where ever they are accepted. the jasmonite share ideas, but do try to "recruit" new believers if the opportunity presents itself. i mostly intend this to affect first and core worlds, but also whatever second wave world that reasonably have ok interactions with Eden.
+4 culture
-1 linked diplomacy
-1 negative aspect "the all encompasing path"- not all will be susceptible to the new "twisted path" religion. Fate point?
-1 negative aspect "dependency on Eden"- away from Eden, the lack of the source affect the jsamonites greatly. Fate point?
+2 free aspect Eden resort- the resort has been the first recruiting ground, where various influential people of the various systems found their enlightment.
all in all- 4d3-5
[roll1]
Edit: added another action, (Get Justice for Jasmonites) later on, so i add another -1 for actions, culminating in a result of 2

[Narkis]

Victory Square, Unity City, Planet Home, Perun System

A huge crowd has filled the central square of the Imperial capital. They have gathered to hear the Czar's announced speech. Suddenly, his Imperial Majestt, Czar Paul the third appears and steps into a grand podium:

"My people... Sons and daughters of Perun. Our forefathers were the first among many. The greatest exodus in the history of mankind. An exodus for freedom. Our Home became that freedom... But there are those who would deny us peace; refuse us our rightful place in the universe; and we will unleash such TERRIBLE VENGEANCE that generations yet unborn will cry out in anguish!
This much I vow. The history of these days will be written in blood. The enemy may shatter our bodies, but they cannot break our spirit. Even now they advance on our Home, to seize by force what they cannot claim by right. They cannot imagine what awaits them. WE WILL SMITE THE INVADERS FROM OUR SKIES! Though they sweep over our lands like the sands of winter; never again will we bow before them; never again endure their oppression; never again endure their tyranny. We will strike without warning and without mercy; fighting as one hand, one heart, one soul. On this day, we stand united. On this day, those driven to divide us will hear our voice! On this day, we shall act as one, and we shall be ignored NO MORE! Defenders of the Imperial dream, NOW IS OUR TIME!"

Cheering ensues. The crowd goes into a frenzy. The Czar steps back and disappears, with a smile on his face.

Action 1 and only:
Drive out the invaders
+4 Fleet
+2 Mobilized for War aspect. Self-explanatory. Free tag.
+2 Human Wave Tactics aspect. Our ships will blot out the sun. -1 Fate points, 4 total.
+2 Vengeance is Mine aspect. We fight for truth, justice and the Imperial Way. -1 Fate points, 3 total.
Total: +10
[roll0]

[Kol Korran]

Proposal for Alliance (sent to the respective leaders metnioned below)
Erica Brium, along with the all the assembled clan heads appear in the high quality message widnow, a soft tentalizing music at the background We, The leaders of the Jasmonite people, come before you the leaders of your 4 nations- the respected and wise Malin Zinius of the Wanderers, the ingenious Lloyd GM XK305 of the Cogs, the esteemed De La Cruz, Kingwell, Sheffield, Abu-Lughold, Goldman of the Constelleation, and last but not least- Prime minister Alexander Holt of the Soverign Alliance.
We have dealt with some of you in the last Sol months, and have known other by reputation. we contacted you for two reasons. the first is that we feel that we share enough similarity in thought and perspective of the universe to work well together. and the second is that we belive we can gain much and improve considerably from working together.

what we suggest is a collaboration of powers, projects, and goals. together we may stand against the difficulties of the cosmos, especially the growing tension with the first wave worlds, and some of the second wavers as well. instead of fast rules and declerations (though these might follow if you wish) we offer to base this partnership on good will and genuine friendship, that our people will learn to respect and cherish the others of these cultures.

We feel that each can contribute to our combined strength. we of Eden may mostly help with resources, apirutual or cultural guiding, but also our growing fleet. (a side screen shows a picture of space, where quite a few factories are working on a great new number of vessels) our fleet is being established for defensive purposes, but we'll gladly offer it's help to the other members of the alliance. you will find us true to our word! Erica Laughs Though we may need Malin's help with lightships, as there are but a few of those with us, despite the Cogs monumental help.

One last thing- for those of you who fear that we have made this proposal because of our current... friction with the Tawfret, rest assure that we will not ask for any help and face this new threat ourselves" Another man steps in though, smiling, some of you know him as Rierdan Jasmon "though any assistence would be greatly welcomed and doubly returned!" the clan leaders laugh diplomatically.

we believe that the fineries of such a collaboration would be made during it's maturing and growth, though if youwish to discuss it before hand, we are more than willing.

Hoping that our paths will interwine, to create a new path, from which will grow and evolve. we, the Jasmonite people wish well to you. may your ventures come true.

[Fortuna]

"Initiate fleet-wide vote regarding alliance proposal. Include my personal reccomendation for acceptance. End command."

[Eldan]

Perun System, 37 AU from the Sun

Fleet Commander Eduardo Brancaleone Furio Fallaci smiled as an ensign nodded at him, bringing the imperial fleet up on the tactical screen, glowing in bright green and fiery red, showing vectors and projections and the first blazing lasers.
"Finally", he whispered. "We've been sitting here for far too long."

The battle would not have looked spectacular from the outside for a long time. Cruisers explode silenty, taking their crew with them, hundreds of men going to silent graves as lasers flare across the system, ripping shields apart, followed by the slower mass drivers.
The Sol captain screams his confusion out across all channels, the crew kicks for an emergency start, but they never get away. The ship is crippled, the bridge going up in a controlled fashion, taking out the crew but leaving the engine intact.

Eridani is not defeated that easily, and no one expected them to. The Vypers spew their poison, fifty tons of cold metal around a tiny but deadly core of antimatter. The empire fleet takes heavy losses, but there is only so much one ship can do against an entire system's fleet.

Seven hours later, the vypers are gone, the eridani cruisers scattered. But then...

Pyre of Heroes is the name of the Eridani lightship. The name was never said, but now it's obvious, painted in scarlet letters fifty meters high across the hull, as it slowly creeps towards imperial fleet.
A message goes out from the ship. Short, three words only.
"Hail Eridani. Burn."
And the ship is gone, replaced by an explosion so bright, it easily outshines Perun's sun, out here, where it's only a pinprick of light. It fries sensors and shields. A lot of antimatter can be stacked into a Hyperion class Alcubierre ship.

But the imperial fleet was careful. A single battleship is wiped out, followed by two small cruisers, but the rest kept at a safe distance. Still, they are bathed in hard radiation, and for an hour or more, all sensors go dead and silence falls over the system.

The first telescopes and antennas come online soon, and what they pick up is not what they hoped for: the wakes of Alcubierre bubbles, closing in on Perun. The eridani fleet must already have been in transit before the first shot was fired.

Still, one thing is clear: the first shot was fired, the first battle fought.

And the second wave won.

[aravier]

To the Jasmonites of Eden,
We, as in, my party would be interesting in joining this higher Alliance. A vote shall be called in the houses of Parliament, and hopefully I shall be able to respond to your proposal soon.

I'll give the proposal a turn to go through Parliament; As the largest party is proposing the bill, it should go through; especially with Holt's Diplomacy 4 :P (I imagine the stats actually being half cultural, and half the political bent of the current Prime minister. Yes, elections will be held at some point)

[Ambon]

The Constellation Utopia Archives
Full Session to discuss The Jasmonite Alliance Proposal

Final Summary: After contentious debate and numerous revisions, the proposal put forward by the Councilors was 1) to join the Jasmonite led alliance, and 2) to establish a Constellation Science Advisory on Eden and on the other alliance worlds. Proposal was consistently blocked by a minority of representatives – namely Goldman (Syndicalist), Lyons (Syndicalist), and Jaggi (Akwesasne Canton). Sheffield (Sauva Selina Canton), de la Cruz (Syndicalist), and Voynich (Blue Bloc) promise science support for the Jasmonites regardless of the outcome of the session. System referendum was proposed by Palgrave (Harmakhis Valley Canton), and rejected, leading to a vote among the representatives in the Utopia. Final proposal passes, after amendments to include guarantee for 3) project to be fully supported by the Terraforming Office and, 4) provisions to support Operation Black Orange to [DATA EXPUNGED] as “a necessary response”.

Action
4/4 Fate points
Maneuver: Establish Constellation Science Advisory public aspect (cost 1 Fate point) for use of all alliance members.
Modifiers: -8 (Base), +3 (Biotech[3]/Computing[3]), +1 (Leadership[4], project is being personally spearheaded by a number of Constellation leaders) = Total -4
4d3-4
3/4 Fate points

[Johel]

Tawfret Partnership

On Jasmonite's spiritual exchange.

Following the formal friendly declaration from both sides, several Jasmonite cults and similar groups appeared in the orbital colonies, the moons and the mining vessels that made up the system of Tawfret.

The local powers didn't even tried to suppress this new faith, this for two reasons.

First, most organizations were here for power and wealth. Not for cultural debates. Business is one thing. Believes are another.

Second, there were already dozens of different religions in Tawfret, most of whom weren't exactly popular in other systems and saw the lawless system as an "holy ground" because of the lack of persecution...or rather the lack of laws to forbid you to retaliate personally against persecutions.

In this nasty sandbox, the peaceful ones quickly had to learn to show their teeth...or they would soon lose them, along with their lives.

Defense:
Culture opposed roll
(DC 3) (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showpost.php?p=8014610&postcount=67)
Culture +1
[roll0]

On Eridani's last military action.

The news of the war soon reached Tawfret.

The ruthless tactics of the Eridanis, who didn't hesitate to detonate their own Lightship as a weapon of mass destruction, stunned the public opinion.

With the researches on Project "Fiery Cloud" done, a regulation will soon be voted by the partners to create several of brand-new gamma ray mobile guns, dumbed GGUN.

Each GGUN is capable of annihilating a small fleet from several AU away, with a cooling device allowing it to quickly reload. Efficiency is optimal if used near gas giant planets, as the enormous amount of matter available help to cool the system and to create more antimatter.

The GGUN is as huge as most B-ships. However, most of its power is for weapons and targeting systems. It uses combustion to align its aim but doesn't have impulsion drive like B-ships. As such, it counts as a C-ship, although a very dangerous one, given the range and firepower.

On Eden System's colonization

The projects "Babylon" and "Sky Eye" will be voted again.
Support for the former is mitigated, especially since the last official exchange between the Partnership's chairwoman and the Voice of Many.
Support for Sky Eye is important, as even limited exploitation of the Eden planets would be profitable, if only from a scientific point of view.

On other matters

The Hephaestus Maintenance Certification will again get its chance, with slightly more support than last time. People start to think of it as a joke, though.

Diplomatic contacts within the Procyon System, Sirius System and Alpha Centauri System are to be initiated to gather political and commercial support against the Sol Trade League. The aim is to lobby for a lowering of the custom duties with at least one of the First Wave systems, so that the Partnership's main supporters can maintain a interstellar highway to export their goods.

VOTE WILL BE DONE IN ABOUT 12 HOURS
Voted (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showpost.php?p=8022092&postcount=52)

[Kol Korran]

Communion between the Clan leaders, led by Horrasia Matt, leader of the Jasmonite fleet (On the battle at Perun)
"Such a scale to war in unheard of on Eden!" claimed a clan leader "This is monsterous!". Horrasia moved a strand of her hair aside "the size of the conflict doesn't makes it more atrocious than a smaller one. the Empire felt it was under attack by the Eridani. indeed it seem they were besieged. I for one commend their impressive resolution and determination. that battle was won on will and numbers alone!" It was clear Horrasia was fascinated with the engagement.
"and what would you say if they come for us? do you think Eden can withstand such massive forces?" Horrasia smiled. "I do not believe the emprie think of us as a threat, but as you know we have been building up our defensive fleet. and we have a few other plans, which i'd rather not divulge out of a security risk. enough to say that here, within the Eden system the Source does in fact makes us better fighters comparatively with other nations. we are accustomed to it... somehow, i do not understand the spiritual aspects fully, but we are better here. and twith the other measures, we believe we could even withstand an attack by the Empire, Eridani, or any other force."
"And what if we'll need to attack another force? reports say we are as if disjointed when we leave the influence of the Source."
"We do not intend to attack others! that might bring chaos and destruction to Eden! this was discussed before!" the Speaker was Erica Brium, who so far stayed out of the conversation. "That you might say, but tactical means might require a change in policy" said the rebellious leader. there were some murmurs of consent, but not many.
"reverent Brium, there is one exception to that rule, that we must prepare for, and that is to come as an aid to the allies of the alliance. I have... started a few programs that will assist in that case as well." Horrasia noticed with some delight of Erica's susprise. "we won't be as powerfull as we are at home, but we won't be useless either. but we're degressing. i come asking all of you leaders to send me more of your warriors to command the fleet. it must be primed and ready, for the defense of Eden!"

"For the defense of Eden!" the meeting ended.
-----------
To the Tawfret Partnership
Rierden Jasmon appears "I am sorry to inform you that the clan leaders council has met to discuss the "Sky Eye" project, and have found it infringes on the sanctity of the Eden system, we feel it might interfere with the Source. Some are also worried as to how the information gained from the project will be used. perhaps in the future this might change, but so far we prohibit the operation of any such non jasmonite survey devices in Eden. if you wish to know whether we have certain resources, we can inform you and trade with you.
we might undertake a similar project over our world in the near future, if you'll desire any information form it we'll be happy to oblige providing we do not ifnd it a security risk.
again, i apologize for any inconvinience this may have caused, but our stand remains firm- no surveying devices of Eden are allowed. may our paths find a smoother road to travel by. Rierden Jasmon, Minister of Eternal affairs."

[Johel]

TW-008 orbital station, Tawfret System

"-They what ?!"
"-They invoke their sovereignty, along with ecological concerns. Our survey ships might interfere with what they call "The Source" and they clearly don't want that...and are pretty vocal about it."

The chairwoman hit her desk while her secretary stood, emotionless. The man was used to her outbursts.
"-That's... Come on !! They got a whole fleet of Wanderers parking in their system, broadcasting like hell...and they are concerned for a few orbital probes above their worlds ? Nobody will buy this !!"
"-Well, they got quite a few supporters among our own people."
Katharina gave him a look that said "-and ?". The secretary shrugged.
"-Even so, they still got a point : unless we want to definitely ignore their sovereignty, we cannot just walk in when they specifically forbid it. That could give Eridani another reason to attack us...and to transform the Eden system into a protectorate at the same time. We don't want that."
"-Sure we don't... Damn it !!"

They remained silent for a few second, Katharina tapping her desk with her fingers, thinking. Then she pushed the key of her FTL communicator.
"-Pre-encoded Transmission. Code Alligator. Send."


*****

{BEGINNING TRANSMISSION}
Pawlak, Code Alligator.
Operation allowed.
Budget confirmed.
Transaction done.
Proceed and report.
{TRANSMISSION LOST}

Half asleep in his chair, at the center of the ship's main deck, Ruttgers opened an eye, looking at the holographic transmission. The eye sparked with a malicious hunger.
"-Lock and load, boys. It's time. Where are they ?"
Behind one of the tac-comm consoles, a woman typed a few keys, searching for the data her boss just asked.
"-I got their last position and vector. They are at about 4 AU from here, going for NH-78."
"-Newman Heaven... Two band of religious freaks for the price of one. I like that... Fire the impulsion."


*****

You are watching... GNN !!

The Church of Newman is in tears today, as the space station NH-78, in the Tawfret System, was victim of a biological hazard. Given the odd practices of the cult, none would have blink if it wasn't for the timely visit of a group of Jasmonites soon before the accident.

Peter Ruttgers, Chief Security Officer for the Partnership, gave us the details in a short interview.

The image shift to the scarified face of Ruttgers.
"-Yea... Always thought they were a vicious lot, these ones. Bah !! Not my job to judge an' I ain't wanna influence the public. So, here are the facts :
41 hours ago, the patrol corvette PTY-012 intercepted distress calls from the station NH-78. As is its duty, PTY-012 changed course to investigate.
40 hours ago, PTY-012 received a transmission from PTY-014, which was already on the spot, investigating. PTY-012 was to search the area for evidences.
39 hours ago, PTY-012 spotted a vessel on a evasion course away from NH-78. An old transport liner, accelerating slow and steady, with a current speed low enough to indicate it had started its engines barely 3, maybe 4 hours before. As per procedure with suspect ships, no contact was initiated.
34 hours ago, the report from PTY-014 was sent to PTY-012, warning the boarding team of potential biological hazard.
30 hours ago, having caught at less than 0.1 AU with the suspect ship, PTY-012 fired a low-power laser beam at the ship's hull, making sure the crew knew they would be instant dead if a real shot was fired. Communication was establish and the crew was identified as Jasmonites.
28 hours ago, PTY-012 got close enough to scan the ship for biological presence, so as to know the crew's size. Several alien signatures were spotted but in too small amount to be significant. Captain Ithor ignored the signals as parasites from the cooking.
25 hours ago, after matching their speeds, the two ships met at an agreed interception point. A quick search revealed the presence of sealed germs, whose RNA matched the one of those found on NH-78.
20 hours ago, the 26 suspects were handed over to the detention center of GFYX58. They are interrogated as we speak. More details will come.
That's all."

The image shift back to GNN's speaker.

Evidences point that the Jasmonites used biological weapons to deal with the followers of Newman.

The Church of Newman is known for its furious support to the Babylon project, as its religion put Mankind's manifest destiny above all.
Two months ago, their Prophet, Newman VIII, went as far as to say, quote, "the Jasmonites are selfish, daydreaming idiots who, in the name of concerns from another time, are slowing the path of Humanity toward progress. The Great Unity can't be found in trees. It lies in Man's spirit. And spirit needs matter to grow !! Eden is Mankin's lost garden. We've killed God long ago, now is the time to take over Paradise". Words that sparked riots between pro and cons of the Twisted Path.

The Showers of the Path are in custody on the moon GFYX58, where the Partnership wishes to detain them until the situation is cleared and a accord can be found between the Jasmonites and the Church of Newman.

This scandal has divided the whole system.

Partner Kim Ilhadro was quick to point out that, I quote, "while we trusted the Jasmonites and let them travel around freely and without restrain, they didn't honor this trust and at the same time limited the passage and actions of visitors in the system of Eden". A formal complain might or might not be addressed to Sol.

On the other hand, Senior partner Javirez Jimenez preached for moderation, begging his fellow partners to "keep their cool and not to make hasty decisions that could endanger Tawfret's sovereignty". At least someone's sane...

[Kol Korran]

We interrupt this program of "Final Survivor- the most brutal game in the universe!" for this special GNN report. to you Jane!

(the view changes to a calm and inviting room, yet somewhat stripped of it's usuall joyous atmosphere) "I am here on the planet of Eden, in the offices of the Voice of Many, the leader of the Jasmonite nation- Erica Brium. following the horrible incident at NH-78, and the following inflamation in the Tawfret society, the Voice of Many seeks to address the Tawfret people. Erica Brium, how do you respond to the allegations that Jasmonites were responsible for such an atrocity?"

the impressive woman looked more severe than usuall. "first of all i'd like to send my condolences to the Newman heaven church, and the families of the deceased. We support the Tawfret law enforcments attmepts at finding out those responsible."

"Even if they are Jasmonites? won't you protect your own people?"

"One of the most fundamental teachings of our faith is accountability. we do not shriek resposebility or guilt. If the jasmonites are indeed responsible for this henious crime, then they must pay. If so, then it has been done without the purpose or consent of the Jasmonite clan leaders, and as such these are outlaws to our ways as well."

"However, I believe that this act of terrorism has been perpetuated by someone else, someone who obviously doesn't understand the Jasmonites very well."

"What do you mean? who do you accuse exactly?"

"I accuse no one, since i have no proof, but things don't add up- first of all, we welcomed the conflict and debate with the Newmann Heaven church- Jasmonites just love a good debate, especially a spiritual one, and it's hard to find worthy partners for it. we believed we may have learned through the interaction with them, and our head priest have sent several emmiseries to their number in order. true, they weren't that happy about us, but i believe that on Sol the ancient religions came to friction as well, but from them rose new spiritual belief systems."

"Second of all- biological weapons?! all who learned even a bit of the twisted path knows the importence we put on all living things, large and small, and how we wouldn't try to manipulate a living thing to hurt another. our biological reaserach is considerably at it's infant stages compared to others in the universe"

"Are you referring to the order of the black star, or the evolved?"

Erica raised her hand "I make no such assumptions or accusations. i do not know the deatials of the harmfull agent, but it may be possible to produce it even in our meager means. the point however, is that we would never do it. it would be like taking a part of the Source, the life giver, and setting it on another part. it's just not the Jasmonite way. every Edenite would find it abhorent."

"Third, and perhaps most importently- this was a violent act, that not stemmed out of self preservation."

"I thought that one of the major articles of the Path was that there is a place for everything, even violence and war. didn't this people just found a place?"

"No, they haven't. in scripture the place for violence comes in one of two possibilites- either in self defense, or when there is a conflict and all other options have been researched, tried and exhausted. we have only began to get to know the Newmann Heaven church, much less find them threatening to our existence. this act doesn't make sense."

"I'd have to disagree Voice of Many, there were Jasmonites captured on the ship, or do you propose some subterfuge on the side of the Tawfret Security forces?"

Erica smiled slightly "I'm glad you disagree. as i said- i make no accusations. i expect an open and fair trial. we are certain the Tawfret will enable us access to our people, and to represnt them- anything less would be crass injustice. however i would like to send one message to the Tawfret partnership, and it's people at large."

"And what message would tha be?"

Erica looked straight at the image transmittor "If my people, in some act of insanity and complete break from faith have done this, then they will pay for what they have done, and the Eden will make ameds to the Newmann Heaven church. However, I believe this is not so. i believe that right now, when our people have started to overcome their differences, and started to come closer together, that there is some out side force trying to drive a wedge between us, to cause suspicions and conflicts to tear us apart, or throw us at the throat of each other. the attack simply could not have been concieved by a jasmonite with an intact mind. i call upon you to look beyond the fear, beyond the doubt, and look for the real enemy, be it a cult, a power house, or someone else."

"that is quite a bit! do you have any candidates?"
"I have not, and besides proof is needed. perhaps the Tawfret partnership and the Jasmonites of Eden can work on this together. who knows, the universe is full of surprises!" Erica smiled, and signaled for the end of the interview

"And that's the word of Eden- doubting the identity of the terrorist, but not utterly denying independent jasmonite responsebility. making no accusations of course, though hints to the blame party could be hinted. Back to you!"

and now Resuming "Final Survivor!"- the episode where two members don't make it back to the lunar camp...

[Johel]

Tawfret System, orbital station TW-008

"-Mr. Smith, senior partner, please stand and speak."

The man stands, adjusting his binoculars to read a paper.
"-Dear partners, some of you have known me for over 40 years now, well before I joined this honored assembly to defend the interests of those who share my vision for Tawfret.
I, like all of us, enjoy our freedom. I, like all of us, enjoy our lack of bureaucracy and our straightforward approach of problems.
Yet, I recognize the need for laws. For without them, there's no stability and without stability, no society exists. I don't share the expansionist views some of you have either. I spoke against Babylon. I spoke against Sky Eye. I still oppose the Hephaestus Certificate, all of whom tend to link our destiny to those of other systems."
The old man paused briefly, passing a tissue on his sweating forehead while the partners digested his words.
"-But I must admit that said destiny is already linked to other systems, as the recent, sad events have proven. We may offer, in good faith, absolute freedom, restricted only by the freedom of others, but some people just won't respect said freedom.
Some people will trample the dreams of others without even trying to find a compromise. Oh, yes, they may use kind words, speak softly and make fake declarations in the medias.
As individuals, our natural reaction against such people is to fight back. That is what our citizens settle dispute among themselves here, in Tawfret. And if we want the Partnership to still be the most respected organization of Tawfret, then we have to do the same, not only to individuals who threaten our values but to the organizations, no, to the very nations that support them !!"
He paused again, cleaning his binoculars while putting aside the paper.
"-I argued that, as a nation, we shouldn't invest in the system of Eden. I said the Jasmonites were the legitimate custodians of such system. That if we respected their ways, they would respect ours. I believed this."
Tobias Smith looked down before turning toward Ngô Hsia and Kim Ilhadro.
"-I was a fool. And you were right, dear sirs. Yes, Mr. Hsia, after all these years, I admit you were right : if we want Tawfret to survive, we must step forward into the galaxy and claim our right to exist and, above all, our right to make sure that no foreign organization will plot against our citizens !!
As such, me and the partners who support me asked this assembly to send a formal message to the Jasmonites : the Eden system will be scanned. Should any biological weapons or suspect facilities be uncovered, my supporters will make sure to mobilize enough force to tame the Source and exterminate its followers. And should any said followers attempt to prevent the scanning, we would assume the Jasmonites are behind the attempt. It is therefor in the best interest of the Jasmonites to make sure nothing disturb the Partnership's probes !!"
A good third of the room cheers the old man for this bold statement. Another third, the usual supporters of neutrality and isolationism, sigh...while Katharina Pawlak, Partnership Chairwoman, smiled.

ROLLS :
Project "Sky Eye"
+1 (Espionage) + 1 (synergy : Computing) - 4 (actions) - 8 (base)
[roll0]
Project "Babylon"
+1 (Lightship)+ 1 (synergy : Fleet) - 4 (actions) - 8 (base)
[roll1]
Mass-produce GGUNs
+3 (Engineering) + 1 (synergy : Resource) - 4 (actions) - 8 (base)
[roll2]
Lobby to the First Wave systems
+1 (Diplomacy) + 1 (synergy : Power) - 4 (actions) - 8 (base)
[roll3]

[Aux-Ash]

Raghala system, Raghala Prime, Taragana, unspecified ruined building on the surface

The building was in surprisingly good shape; not only was there only a few holes or collapsed passages here and there, but there was also several stable storeys and at least one staircase leading all the way to the roof.

As Laurent ascended, it struck him how quiet the city was these days. Before the war it had been a bustling city, the traffic always rumbling in the distance and everywhere bright and loud commercial screens lit the streets and sent out their messages of commerce. Now... there was just the wind making it's way through the buildings, rustling the leaves of the vegetation slowly devouring the ruins.

He passed one of the Autocrat's bodyguards, the masked, ever-silent, fanatics always in her presence. Their outfit was intended to intimidate everyone just as much as it was to protect the identity of the guards themselves. To prevent anyone from knowing who they, and more importantly their families, are. A black mask covering the entire head, with glowing white eyes, and the long gray coats covering their thick full-body armour. He understood why some sometimes referred to them as "Aniane's demons".

The guard in the staircase simply nodded to him as he passed. Like the guards, Laurent's loyalty was without question. Where the guards had no faces, Laurant had a false one. Not a mask but surgically altered and kept out of all records. As far as the official records were considered, Laurent did not exist.

Finally reaching the roof, Laurent dug his hands deep into his pockets and tried to brace himself against the cold wind. His eyes passed over the guards keeping their eyes on the horizon or using their small devicesto search for combat drones. The drones could not be seen or heard while dormant, but when they power up they would shift their scanning frequencies slightly, allowing a skilled operator to detect them with one of those. Naturally, it was a lot of luck involved.

The autocrat was standing in the middle of the roof, in between what once had been magnificent skywindows. Her eyes closed and just enjoying the wind. She almost looked at peace.

"Milady. I am here as you requested"

The autocrat made no visible movement or any indication that she had heard him at all. Then she spoke calmly.

"How are the preparations going?"

"We are still working on indentifying the members of the group. Seeing the level of subterfuge involved, it is as expected not something that progresses particulary swftly. But as far as we can tell, they believe that our public condemnation and the razzias and arrests is all we'll do. "

Aniane grinned a wicked smile, the kind that makes even the most callous shiver nervously.

"Good. I hope they'll all suffer."

Several of the transmitters operated by the "demons" let out a high pitched shriek and in an instant half of the guard detail had their rifles primed on the horizon.

"Milady, it is time for us to leave"

The group slowly turned around and started to descend down through the building and then further into the bunker complex. In the distance the thundering sound of a combat drone opening fire on something echoed among the ruins of the city.

Action:


The hegemony is trying to indentify as many members of the Rejoiners as possible, particulary the leadership. With the goal of later doing a massive retaliation consisiting of assassinations, abductions ("making them disappear") and similar (though that is an action for another turn).

Espionage: +3
Vengeful aspect +2 (one fate point spent)
[roll0]

[Kol Korran]

(the action below pertains also to Erica Brium's speech in the previous post. added to that is the following)

GNN: "Today's hot topic"
It seems the Jasmonite nation won't stand aside from their demands to hold an open trial. their Leader, Erica Brium has recently gave an interview here on GNN, stating that the act of terrorism perpetuated against the Newmann Heaven church could not have been done by "true jasmonites". She eluded the that the act was done by some other entity, that ries to frame the jasmonite nation, and cause it and the Tawfret partnership relations to worsen considerably.

As a result of that speech the fairly new various cells of jasmonite believers, and new recruits call upon the partnership to hold open trial. in the last few days there have been outspoken speeches in at least 50 public centers and media, around the subject, most of them projasmonites, but also quite a few by the Newmann church and partnership officials themselves.

join us for the next hour for an in depth examination of this situation and it's origins...



Action: get Justice for the Jasmonites
Diplomacy +2
Linked attribute Culture +1: the crime doesn't fit the jasmonite faith or patters. plus we use our cultural values to show honesty and genuione intention to punish the responsible party. if this doesn't fit then remove it
three actions -2
tagging free aspect created this turn- the spread of faith +2: the Jasmonite converted in Tawfret calls for a fair trial. the faith may have reached high ranks as well. (if the aspect didn't come through, then reduce the result by another 2)
normal 4d3-8, total 4d3-5
[roll0]

Edit: former actions were adjusted to the number of actions

[Ambon]

The Constellation


InterceptionCARNIVORE NETWORK node oct-1295-8828-taw

Accessing…

Hunter-Seeker AI #11714203
Capture Log 117-233-120-542

Attention: Data incomplete. Only partial decryption available

VR unavailable
Voice transcript available

Accessing…

[DATA INCOMPLETE. TRANSCRIPT START]

MN-1: -- sensitive situation that needs to be seriously discussed. We can’t afford a mistake.

MN-3: Sorry, my connection’s clouding. Please repeat.

MN-2: She wants full insertion for -- heightened state of security makes third or forth order insertion almost impossible.

MN-4: But first order insertion is guaranteed?

MN-1: We’re practically at first order already. The problem is that Black Orange requires --

[FRAGMENT MISSING]

MN-7: -- asset mobilization will be difficult.

MN-4: BSI will allow even high yield operations to be completed even if we limit ourselves to low-level assets.

MN-3: It shouldn’t be necessary to directly assault high security networks. Multiple low-level assets can -- maximum effect on the target life support system.

MN-2: But what does Zero think?

MN-7: Zero has -- and managed full support after the Perun-Eridani incident.

[FRAGMENT MISSING]

MN-3: -- clouding. Might be my location. Please repeat.

MN-1: -- Jasmonite-Tawfret conflict. Church of Newman is a good place to start --

MN-7: -- play at being internally conflicted but are clearly preparing. They’re attempting mass production. Even superficial analysis suggests some -- Black Orange as soon as we’re ready, if you ask me.

MN-1: It might even be useful to drag the First Wave into -- otherwise affect Project Babylon.

MN-3: The list of targets should include --

[DATA INCOMPLETE. TRANSCRIPT END]

Accessing…

Confirm purge command
Purge initiated.

Confirm file/log deletion
File/log deleted

CARNIVORE NETWORK node oct-1295-8828-taw


Aboard the lightship A Wild and Ephemeral Music“Are those real clouds?” the diplomat asked.

He had to squint to look at them as the false sun was bright. This zone was apparently based on Earth, though their limited samples of Terran plant life meant that the resemblance was flawed. To a native Terran the flaws may have been glaring, but to the members of the Second Wave worlds it was as natural as an ancient cave painting.

Franz Ortner, hearing the question, put on his visor and followed Jasmonite’s gaze to the white-gray shapes on the dome’s surface. Ortner was perhaps the least biomodified scientist in the Constellation and without a doubt among the most brilliant. This wasn’t out of any objection to the technology. He had taken the standard biomods that allowed him to breathe freely in many of the wilder parts of Gamelan, especially the thin atmosphere of the high mountains where much of his early work had taken place. Ortner, who was more comfortable with his machines and interfaces than other people, found that there was little functionality that could be added by the newer wave of biomods - at least the safe ones. They could only impair the already perfect, or near perfect, rapport that he had developed with his web of light cybernetics, slave AIs and network nodes. Franz Ortner, in mind and soul, was machine-like already.

“Hm? No no… It’s a trick. Never did get the artificial hydrologic cycle running properly. Too small.”

“Get the what?”

“The hydrologic cycle. Water cycle. The water. It describes the movement of –“

“No, I understand what the water cycle is. Can you speak louder? And slower?” the diplomat said, trying not to be irritated.

“Please, don’t take offense. He’s like that with everyone.” Sheffield came up behind them, followed by a small retinue of Ortner’s lab assistants, Jasmonite visitors, and Constellation security.

Smiling widely and shaking their hands, he asked. “Feeling a little out of your element, are you Franz?”

Ortner shrugged. Or, in his mind he thought he shrugged. His attention was still drawn to the dome’s ceiling. “The screens in my room have the same view. We could have done this there. Monitoring cams.” He pointed at ceiling cameras no one else could see.

“Nonetheless, here we are. And I don’t think your screens have quite the same view. Ambassador?”

The Jasmonite seemed relieved. “Yes, it’s impressive. And this is Earth?”

“Similar. Not identical.”

“As my colleague says,” Sheffield continued,” it’s not quite Earth. But we have several other biomes aboard in domes. This ship was specially fitted for this purpose. With assistance from the other members of the Alliance, we’re hoping to improve the process.”

“Which, of course, would help the Wanderers and my people as well?”

“Yes.” Sheffield considered his wording carefully. “I believe as your Voice of Many believes – that there is much that our peoples can learn from each other. Fundamentally, we share a deep bond with our environments. Not just something technically useful, but spiritually essential. I believe that this is the strongest basis for an alliance between our peoples. The material benefits of our alliance are not the only attractions, though they are significant.”

“Yes, of course,” The Jasmonite diplomat nodded, genuinely pleased. “I’m glad we see eye to eye! Jasmonite culture for Constellation science… and you can help us understand the Source?”

Ortner made an indecipherable noise. “Myth, most likely. I brought my best tools. We’ll see. So the Science Advisory is a go?”

“The decision has yet to be made, but I believe it has enough support. Constellation science is a difficult offer to turn down. I understand that you’ll be heading the Advisory?”

Ortner nodded. “Yes. Modeling it after my old lab at Acheron Mountain. This Source question is difficult, though. Will have to poach some researchers from our other labs. Biophysics. GEM design. Eco-warfare. Stellar astronomy --“

“Eco-warfare?”

“Yes. The lab designed the system that shut down Complex 181. Used convergence of GEMs and AI work to render --“

Sheffield interrupted him. “We have extensive experience with biotech, from many sources. I believe what my colleague is saying is that some of our old biotech complexes can be adapted to suit your needs, whatever they may be.”

“Of course.” The diplomat’s face was inscrutable. “Of course, the details have to be worked out later.”

“Yes, I understand.”


GNN News Broadcast!… news to day as Centauri scientists announce the discovery of an orphan planet just at the edge of civilized space. Scientists say that long range scans suggest that the planet is massive, barren, with a trailing debris field. Most importantly, the planet and its debris field contain large amounts of the materials essential to anti-matter production.

Already, many interested groups are laying claim to the rogue planet, flooding offices on Sirius and Sol. First Wave governments caution against spurious claims, saying that the Sirian Convention on Extrasolar Bodies dictates the kind of territorial claims that can be made, limiting them to First Wave worlds. Others have challenged this statement, saying that the Sirian Convention is either obsolete, or inapplicable since the orphan planet is technically in space that could be considered sovereign territory of some Second Wave worlds.

For more, we turn to our Sirian correspondent Mizuko Ito who is live at…


ActionDeclaration! Unclaimed orphan planet is floating around somewhere! Whoever has controls it gets +1 to their resource stat.

-1 Fate point for the Declaration, 3 Fate points left

[Storm Bringer]

Great Gable, Outer ages of the Bowman system

Karl Bishwah, Minister for Foreign Affairs, stood in the formal reception room. He’d been here many times, receiving a great number of different persons. Most of them were semi-routine visits form some First Wave system or other, with a formality so stiff you could use it for hull plating.. The more interesting ones were visits like these, form second wave nations, with a more relaxed (or less stuck-up, depending on your point of view) attitude to diplomacy.

The airlocks at the end of the room clanked, then irised open to reveal the esteemed guests, with their leader in the fore. He was slightly taller than the norm, with a neat goatee, shortish curly hair, a slight smirk and what could only be described as a roguish charm. His clothes, in stark contrast to the uncomfortable formal suit that karl had stuffed himself into, looked hard wearing, practical, and sinfully comfortable. All in all, he looked like he’d just stepped out off the cover of a Greg Galactic adventure novel.... but in a good way. Karl cleared his throat.

“Mr. Barrion, I welcome you to both the station of Great Gable and to the Bowman system.”

Joel Barrion smiled warmly.
“Thank you, Karl. The Children of Eden are grateful for the chance to get to know the people of Bowman. But, please, It’s just Joel. Mr. Barrion is my father”

Karl chucked at the joke. He’d heard it from several dignitaries who’d passed though here, but this was the first one who seemed to genuinely mean it. Joel looked around at the finery of the reception room with an appreciative glance.

“You really went to town with the twiddly bits here, didn’t you? “
Karl shrugged his shoulders, or as close a movement as the stiff suit allowed “First wavers. They send a minister out here and he thinks he’s royalty. Plus, we get actual royalty form some of the second wave systems here as well on state visits. In fact, the last person to be received here was King Jonas IV of the Normans.”
Karl gestured to one of the doors off the chamber, and the two began to walk, their retinues falling in behind. Once out of the hall, the decor returned to a more tasteful level, though still pretty expensive. Karl took a data slate form an aide and handed it to Joel. “this is our planned Itinerary for your visit, along with our usual tourist information pack. Please read it when you get the chance, and if there’s any places you’d like to visit, I’m sure we can fit them it. We havn’t planned for anything until we reach Crassus station tomorrow morning anyway.“

“thank you karl, I shall peruse it on the flight insystem. Speaking of which, is that where we are heading?”

Karl smiled “indeed we are. I have a feeling we will get along just fine, Joel.”

[Narkis]

Action 2: Give myself the "Hardened Defenses" aspect

+2 Engineering
+1 Population synergy. My factories will work 24/7.
+1 Unity synergy. My people won't buckle under the strain.
-1 two actions this turn.
Total: +3
[roll0]

[Fortuna]

Rolling for DM knows what, and not telling you the modifier.

[roll0]

[nolispe]

Just before the turn ends:
Note: This would be kept secret.

"Friends, we have a desision to make. Perun is at war, and they appear that they may not survive without assistance. I move that we send them Economic aid, and assist them in any way possible."
"Negative. Why should the Order involve itself in a lost war?"
"Also negative. The Ascended One would not look on kindly if we extinguished ourselves in a hopeless war."
"Objection. The other second wave worlds would not look upon it kindly if we abandoned the Empire to Eridani.
"Minister, centuries ago, when our ansestors swore the Oath of Devotion, we took a vow to protect the colonies against Sol. This vow has now been extended to defence against imperialist aggression everywhere. If we fail to stand against Eridani, how would we be greeted by the Ascended One on our deaths?"
"Indeed. And so, my vote is positive."
"If we must, then we should use every method at our disposal. I suggest a non-lethal virus."
"Do any of our research groups have anthing of the sort on call?"
"The supply ministry can send the Empire economic support."
"Team four has a sleeper virus on call. It should act to take out a good percentage of the Eridani population, but keep civilian casualties to a minimium. It has two parts: a first virus, that will act to create a second virus to cause the main disease upon a timelapse. The second virus will act to introduce a coma, taking them out. Needless to say, the virus will act to kill the victim rapidly upon any entry into the body of antibodies, or anything else that can be useful to combat an infection."
"Done. Now, can we move onto item number two on our agenda: The rogue Planetlet discovered by the constellation. I vote we ignore it."

"That planetlet would be invaluable for our war effort. I move that we retrieve it from neutral space.



transferring 2 Fate points to DM knows who.
Unleashing Biological plague on Eridani. (using Fate point)
[roll0]

[Eldan]

Kol Korran:

Eden Resources:
Things go well, the Wanderers are resupplied and better equipped and outfitted than they have been for a long time. They get the metal they need, along with new more productive hydroponic plants, fresh water and just a little bit of the source's peace.

Spreading the Faith:
Get your fate point for that one.
There are more problems than anticipated: the core world population manages to be at the same time conservative and believing in rationality and science, as well as cynical and media-saturated. Nevertheless, you find new believers who see something in your ideas they believe they lacked earlier.


Ambon:

Your action is a success, and the science advisory is developed in it's shiny new building. Not much else to say here.


Johel:

After political squabbling, your faction decides to do everything at the same time, hopelessly overextending itself and it's budget. Sky Eye fails due to radiation and running into the enemy fleet. Babylon is shot down by your opposition politicians and the GGUN remains a prototype for now.

A delegation is send to the different Sol factions, but so far, there is either apathy or slight hostility towards your people on that front.


Aux-Ash:

Total roll of +7. So, great success.

With their ruthless methods ranging from secret abductions and torture to surgically altering your agents for insertion into enemy groups, you rapidly infiltrate the enemy command structure, taking out several cells almost by accident and infiltrating most members of the organisation up to the highest levels.


Narkis:

Since your losses were about as small as you could have hoped for, and your factories are working overtime, your defenses are now better than they ever were before, with new cruisers and stationary cannons.


Nolispe:

Plague sent.


GNN

Newly appointed Supreme Commander First Class Sabre Fléchette is stepping in front of the camera, his uniform black and heavy, adorned only by a single medal, a silver star on his left breast pocket.
"People of Eridani, humans everywhere. This is a difficult and confusing time. You all saw the footage from Perun, how the Empire attacked without provocation, how the brave men and women of Eridani gave their lives to protect a peaceful mission and their solar allies.
But then, what happened? The Pyre of Heroes exploded. Was this a heroic sacrifice, as some are claiming it is, a last deed of these brave soldiers of Eridani to smash a cowardly attacker?
It wasn't. First estimates shown that there were almost sixty tons of antimatter on the Pyre, in addition to what was already in the engine. Why should we send so much, when this action was not planned?
No, it was sabotage. Our intelligence showed that a third party, a second wave party, smuggled antimatter, detonators and agents on board of the Pyre, to weaken both our enemy, the empire and ourselves.
But they did not anticipate how skilled Eridani agents are. We know who did this, and they will pay.
Let all the righteous parties of humanity know who did this cowardly deed, who was so reckless and evil, who claimed the lives of so many brave heroes that day: Tawfret. We have documents, cargo manifests, security footage, clearly showing the deed, and the manipulation these cruel war profiteers tried to cover their tracks.
Know this: the spear of truth has pierced your lies, and the hammer of justice will follow.
Thank you."

GNN report: lesser known cultures of the Second Wave

"As we all know, there are many dozen cultures out there and in the recent political disturbances, many of them have kept to themselves, quieter than others. Today, we are going to have a look at the Templars of New Albion.
Only this sunday, a Sirius expeditionary fleet on the Northern Fringe of the human Alcubierre expansion frontier met a templar fleet sent out to, as they claim "convert the rest of humanity". Here in the studio with me today is Selakander Vertal, of the Sirius First Contact Facilitation Agency..."

[The_JJ]

(Does this signal the start of turn three? What with the battle and the press release and all...)

Carthage System Networks, broadcasting from New Alexandria.

The talk shows host leans back in her chair. She's enjoying this show, ripping her guest apart. The studio audience is yumming it up.

Tell me, does "Hail Eridani. Burn." sound like the last transmission of a ship that's just been sabotaged?

No, but-

Or the Eridani fleet that was already en route? That was certainly not the act of an ambushed force. No, the evidence is clear, the Eridani tried to use what amounts to, if I may extend the metaphor to ground warfare, a tactical nuke. Not the worst use for a nuke, and it was poorly done, but setting a precedent for letting an act like that go unpunished in some form would be terrible to say the least.

But an all out war!?

No, not because they attempted to use a supermassive anti-matter reaction as a direct weapon. That might warrent, economic sanctions or something of that nature. No, my real problem is twofold, okay? First, is that economic sanctions would never work. The First Waver's inborn sense of superiority, with their little trade cartels wouldn't stand for it, justified punishment or no. Point two, and the one that's making me advocate for active Solarian participation is this Fléchette charactor's accusations. Listen to this, okay? Roll 2-10!: "Our intelligence showed that a third party, a second wave party, smuggled antimatter, detonators and agents on board of the Pyre, to weaken both our enemy, the empire and ourselves." Right, now let's repeat the important bit. "-a third party, a second wave party, smuggled antimatter-" You hear that?! That's not some talk show host, okay, that's their freaking supreme command throwing that line out. If, if we assume this evidence isn't faked, then we still have this dangerous attitude of the Eridani's there. I say it's time the Second Wave stood up.

Action 1:
By Jingo!:
Base of Culture (+3) +1 Leadership synergy. Tagging Solaris United (+2, minus one Fate point, putting me back to normalcy) + whatever for last turns Shouting Fire in a Crowded Theater (assuming it as a temporary aspect? +2 for the free use):
[roll0][roll1][roll2][roll3]+8 = crap rolls but Total: +6

Preping the population for wartime manuevers. You know, Do Your Part! style propaganda, saving up food for the war effort. Drum out the reserves and open up recruiting offices.

(So if this goes mega overkill... how would that effect future fleet actions? Just curious.)

If it needs to be resolved this turn I will also be... (GM)


Into the breach!:

Moving the fleet to Perun. Lemme know if this goes down so I can post epic flavor on how Commander Kail 'envisions' the battle. (e.g. how it goes if I beat the Eridani roll and things go 'my way.')

[Johel]

Tawfret Partnership

...of humanity know who did this cowardly deed, who was so reckless and evil, who claimed the lives of so many brave heroes that day: Tawfret. We have...
Katharina gasped as the words were spoken, choking herself with the champagne she was drinking when watching the news. The rest of the room went silent.
"-Holy cows..."

The party, held inside McRonald Consortium's main office, was to raise funds to keep the chairwoman in place. An difficult task given the last failures of various projects. While Mrs Pawlak kept herself as neutral as possible, it was no secret that she had supported the whole Babylon project, using Mr. Ilhadro as a mere front.

And now, this... Of course it was ridiculous : one could not just "smuggle" antimatter into a frigging military warship. This stuff was both too dangerous and too expansive to be left unchecked. But, much like the "terrorist attack" of the Jasmonites, it was a mere justification for the "casus belli", not the reason itself.

Katharina sighed as she readied herself for the unavoidable avalanche of questions that would follow. The higher-ups of McRonald Consortium would want answers. And so would most of the organizations which backed her.

At the back, the Eridani transmission ended.
Know this: the spear of truth has pierced your lies, and the hammer of justice will follow.
Thank you."

The silence had been replaced by confused whisperings. Then it was broken by the *PLOP* of a newly opened champagne bottle. At the back of the room, a grin eating his face, Ruttgers drank at the bottle.
"-Sooo... Something's telling me you gotta need my boys soon, boss. Ain't I right ?"

[Kol Korran]

The hub hub in the Hall of Forthcoming Answers lasted for over half an hour. the news traveled fast, and all clan leaders had their opinions, influenced by their people's opinions. Erica sighed inwardly, the Jasmonite way. things were moving faster then first expected. and some things weren't that expected at all!
"Esteemed Spokesman and woman! if i may have your attention please!" the hub hub subsided... partially. it will have to do. Erica spoke loudly "this past month has been full of devlopment- our call for an alliance with the Constellation, Wanderers, Soverign alliance and the Hephaestus. then there was the Battle at Perun, in which Eridani forces suffered a great defeat, but at the expanse of The Empire's resources. lately there was the unfortunate incident with the Newmann church, and the one sided trial at Tawfret. and lastly, our guests for the past two months, the Wanderers, have returned to their wanderings, and have traveled to an unknown destination. I inform you all that some of our people, Teachers trained by the High Mentor have traveled with interested and curious initiates of the faith to various systems, though the spread of faith is slow for now. we hope and believe that more people will see the truth of the twisted path, and embrace it , as difficult as that may seem. we are also, as discussed and agreed before, constantly trying to contact new cultures and nations, and to see if we could work together. on your dossiers you may see one such new contact that might hold great potential." she let the talks in the crowd continue for a few moments more, as some leaders who weren't that updated tried to catch up quickly.

she then continued "Most of you have heard of the latest development- the Tawfret accused by Eridani at sabotaging a flag ship. the Eridani propaganda is quite slim, and not that believable" there was a shout from the crowd "As was the story of my people caught by the Tawfret! we demand justice!" it was Pauman, the leader of those captured by the Tawfret security forces. "that may be true, but the interpertation requires consideration- either the Tawfret were indeed behind the first subterfuge, and are now targeted by the Eridani for some reason" "Because they are lying, theiving, immoral wretches!" Erica continued unphased "Orrr... that both charades we done by a third party, trying to get the Tawfret in as much trouble as possible. fighting on two fronts." there was a murmur in the crowd. "We have so far no idea who such entity might be, but we hope the coming events might reveal more. the time for choosing sides is nearing Speakers, and we need to decide which side it is. Neutrality won't last us for long. we first need to hear of our possible alliance members, and then make difficult decisions... let us discuss, debate, and decide. the Jasmonite way."
------------------------
Private Message to The Hephaestus, The Constellation, The Wanderers, and the Soverign alliance (the following is the essence of the message)

"Esteemed leaders, the universe revolves and truns around us. we sense a time of great trouble is coming. our offfer of friendship and cooperation for a better future still stands. would you join us? we presume not to lead, but to be an equel member of the allaince of nations. may our path join to fruitfull results and enlightment."

[Storm Bringer]

Karl looked at the news-slate in his hand.

“they can’t be serious.”

Joel looked up form his own copy
“Unfortunately, I think they are” he replied with a resigned tone.
The two of them were in the forward observation lounge of the UNV Bellerophon (known to one and all as the ‘Billy Ruffian’ , in respect to the ancient British ship of that name), en route from Crassus station to High Haven, the primary orbital of the Gas Miners Guild, and export point for over 90% of the H-3 mined from the depths of Bowman’s atmosphere. From there, they planned to take a shuttle down to Deep Sanctuary, where they could join one of the independent miners operating many miles from sunlight, and see the awesome turmoil of the storms passing other each other. Joel said one on the artists in his retinue was very keen to paint such a stunning vista.
Karl threw the pad on the table “they must know it looks like the smallest fig-leaf to naked imperialism, even if it IS true....which we have nothing but their word for, as we’ve not seen their ‘evidence’.”

This was not the first such conversation Joel and Karl had. Over the course of them, Karl had begun to appreciate Joel, not just as a visiting diplomat, but as a highly intelligent and capable person. He’d twigged the ‘steward’ assigned to him was a Union intelligence operative in about 30 seconds. He’d not complained, just asked that he be allowed the occasional period of ‘me time’ when he could relax and not have to ‘smile for the cameras’, to use his own term.
Joel smiled glumly “they don’t need to convince anyone. They just need a ‘fig leaf’ to hand to the first wave politicians. Then, when they go and curb stomp a sovereign Second Wave state into dust just ‘cos they don’t like the look of them, they can all say it was the right and proper thing to do.” The disgust in his voice was clear, and surprised Karl.
“Sympathy for the enemy?” he asked.
“Enemy?” Joel laughed like he’d just heard the best joke in the world. “ENEMY? No, the Partnership is not our enemy, they are just seriously misguided. We seek to better understand them, and perhaps convert them to our way of thinking” it was Karl’s turn to laugh. This drew a cold stare form Joel that killed the laugh. “Do not make light my mission, Karl. I am here as a diplomat, yes, but I am also here as a missionary.” His voice was quiet, but it carried with the force of fervent faith. Karl knew better than to argue about matters of faith, so let the topic drop and moved on.

“At any rate, the Union will release a statement later today asking for the evidence to be made public, so that all can judge the guilt of the Partnership”

[Narkis]

Log #6, recovered from the doomed battleship HIMS Justice
[static]
[unintelligible sounds]
Unidentified Crewman #1: "Hahahahaha! Take that, Eridani bastards!"
Unidentified Crewman #2: "That was almost too easy..."
UC#1: "Yeah. At this rate we'll be bombing Eridani in a week!"
UC#2: "Heh. Can't wait for this war to be over"
UC#1: "Why, wha..."
Captain Lionel Ulibarri: "This is the captain speaking. The Eridani ships have been scattered, and pose no threat. Their lightship is about to surrender. Our thanks, for a job well done."
[cheering]
UC#1: "So, what's the rush?"
UC#2: "Just before we launched, I saw that movie, The Cross of Stars, with my family. Mary loved it. The kids loved it. Hell, even I liked it. So different to what we usually see. Now I hope I can get a permit to visit Eden with them. It looks like a true paradise."
UC#1: "Yeah, it... Wait. Why is the Eridani lightship coming towards us?"
UC#2: "What the..."
UC#1: "Oh, shi..."
[log terminated]

Somewhere on Home
"Attention workers. This factory's output has exceed our expectations by 7%. You have the Empire's thanks. It is men and women like you that will allow us to defeat the Enemy. You may now take a ten minute break. If you keep up the good work, each of you will be allotted a chocolate coupon! And remember: good citizen, is a productive citizen!"

Somewhere else on Home
"Attention workers. This factory's output has failed to meet our expectations by 4%. We cannot hope to defeat the Enemy if we don't give our utmost. If you don't increase your efforts, your food coupons will have to be reduced. And remember: good citizen, is a productive citizen!"

Unity Polytechnic, 7km outside Unity city
Two men are in a room filled with strange machinery, doing something that no layman could hope to understand.
"Professor, I have..."
"Damnit Nawal, didn't I tell you not to interrupt me? I'm in the middle of..."
"But it's the Czar!"
The professor sighs
"Fine. Put him through."
"Professor Gupta. You have..."
"Your Majesty, I am in the middle of a very critical experiment. My assistant may be brilliant, but he can't..."
"It can wait."
"But your Majesty..."
"It can wait. As I was saying, you have heard of Tawfret's new weapon."
"Yes, your Majesty. A brilliant idea..."
"That you didn't come up with. I want you to build one for the Empire."
"Certainly, your Majesty. There is nothing theoretically difficult about it. I will need some time..."
"That we don't have. The Eridani are coming. I want a surprise waiting for them."
"I suppose we could repurpose one of our lightships..."
"Excellent. Start at once. You will have everything you need. But it must be ready before the Eridani get here."
"But my experiment!"
"I am sure your brilliant assistant can manage it without you."
The professor glances uneasily at his instruments, then at his beleaguered assistant. He sighs.
"As you wish, your Majesty."

Action 1: Give myself a "Makeshift übergun" temporary aspect
+2 Engineering
+1 Population synergy.
+1 Unity synergy.
-1 two actions this turn. Second action to come.
Total: +3
[roll0]

[Johel]

Tawfret Partnership

Like all the rest of the dozen of people who entered the room, Ngô Hsia sat at the table, right next to his nephew, CEO of Hsia Industries. The meeting had been called yesterday, without the slightest warning. As the "ambassador" of the company to the Partnership, Ngô had to be present to then defend the decisions in front of all the partners.

The CEO started the meeting.
"-Good morning, everyone. We are all busy men and women so let us proceed straight to the point, shall we ? You've all heard the big news of the past week. Eridani wants blood and the one of Perun isn't enough for their thirst. Your advises, gentlemen ? Shall we pull out of Tawfret and go back to one of the First Wave systems ?"

Short silence. A young man looked at Ngô. Not at the CEO. At Ngô. The old snake nodded his approval. The young man started talking.

"-Sir, we made that choice long ago, when your grandfather resettled the whole group here. The tax advantages of Tawfret may not look like much in comparison of the preferencial treatment we enjoyed on Luna. But they represents billions of credits every quarter. That money has showered our shareholders for now nearly three decades. They won't be oppose to use some of this flow to counter Eridani if it means the profits will return after."

Another manager spoke up :

"-To relocate our administrative staff wouldn't cost much but the yards, the powerplants, the automated factories... It will probably sink our current tresory and cripple our results for the next five years, if not more."

Tongues started to move faster :

"-Solar business regulations are so tight we wouldn't even be able to work !!"
"-Our private security forces would have to be down sized. We wouldn't be autonomous businessmen but the serfs of the State !!"

And so on. Ngô did his best to stay silent. It was not his privilege to advise. Not if he wanted to remain in this position, looking like an harmless, unambitious man, yet talented orator when needed. The kind of skilled people a CEO wants to keep around because they won't be a threat. His brat of a nephew eventually calmed the board.

"-I think we all agree, then. A choice had been made long ago. It has proven to be the right one for decades. Maybe we must revise our strategy and run. But not before at least trying to fight back."
He hit the table with his fist.
"-These Eridani... They are wolves... But Hsia Industries has had to fight among wolves here, in Tawfret, for decades. We will not surrender and offer our throat to the bureaucrats of Sol without a fight. Ngô, my uncle ?"

The old man smiled.
"-Yes, my nephew ?"
"-You will rally your colleagues for the next Partnership assembly. We don't want a regulation, we want an agreement : all the major galactic organizations with interests in this system are to increase their security forces and be prepared to repell Eridani... aggressive take over."
"-I will do what I can... Not an easy task, though..."
"-I trust your skill and experience, uncle."

Bet he did : Ngô already had made the agreements, in secrecy, with several partners of his group. In less than a month, the Partnership would be swarmed with battleships. But more could be done. The GGUN had to be replicated. The Temporary Regulation had already been voted. The companies to which the project was subcontracted had to keep their word and manufacture the weapons...whatever the cost.


*******

The ship was nearing its destination : the Lightship "Cola-Coca Experience". Yes, the name was stupid and so was the ship's look, with its hull sporting tons of advertising banners, as was the custom for most of the Partnership's vessels. You had to give something back to the sponsors, right ?

But the fact that the ship itself had the form of a soda bottle ? Javirez Jimenez found a bit too much. Sure, back in the year it was built, a state-of-the-art Lightship for not even a tenth of its price sounded like a good idea to the then newly formed Partnership. But now... The thing was more than four decades old and whatever improvements had been done, it was still outdated hardware. To add a ridiculous look on top of it was never a good publicity. Especially for the mission he was about to accomplish : tour the First Wave systems (except for Eridani...) and convince them that Tawfret could be a profitable trade partner and was in no way a military threat...except for invaders. Damn, he had to stress that point !! To be harmless was good. To be defenseless wasn't.

Mass-produce GGUNs (Engineering)
-8+3-1
[roll0]

Lobby to the First Wave systems (Diplomacy) + synergy (Resource)
-8+1+1-1
[roll1]

[Kol Korran]

Rierden watched Erica closely, outweardly she seemed calm, but he knew her quite... intimatly, he could see the tell tale signs of tension. perhaps even anger?

"The Wanderers have declined our offer of cooperation. so far their location is unknown. I get the feeling that they do not wish to join our paths any longer. Their culture, goals and intetnions remain inscrutible to us i fear."

"May their path twist and bring them challanges, rewards and enlightment" intoned Erica, thinking of something else "And i thought i percieved our relations correctly. lets see what the other nations have to say." Erica looked over the reports of the last debate. it took over 3 days, and the results didn't please her. "And the WISE clan elders have chosen the path of reservation. not joining the forces of Tawfret for now." this time the anger could be heard in Erica's voice."we cannot risk drawing the attention of the Eridani right now. or the core worlds. we should influence them from within, as we know how. meanwhile..." Rierden's face changed but subtly. Erica sighed. "Increase the fleet production. we got some models out of the Wanderers designs. also, continue with your special project." Rierden rose "Speak with her, the clan leaders' decision supports her assesment, we can't miss this new opportunity" "I will. I will"
-------------------
(several minutes later, a communication between the Jasmonite flag ship and the surface)
"Horrasia, you have our consent. Mobilize the fleet. may you bring swift victory"
-------------------
Rierden contacted the Science counseltry of the Contellation. he felt a slight fear of them- he knew Erica what Erica wanted of them. the Source. how would they change Eden and their culture he wondered? some things should be believed in, not examined and analyzed...
"Esteemed scientists of the Constellation, the Jasmonite call upon you for aid."
"Shall we begin exploring the Source? a most fascinating phenomena! we have a few basic theories that we'd like to test."
Unfortunatly no. current events have depicted the preperation of Eden's defence a priority. i understand only a little about science but as i understand it might be possible to detect incoming fleets to the system by obseving minute changes in folded space? or something of the like? we'd like to place such detectors in our system, a sort of an Early warning system? (he could almost hear the others laughing at the simplistic way he described things)
"well yes, it is possible, but it will require very percise calculations and instruments"
"And that's why we require your help. will you aid us?
Yes. Yes we will.
------------------
message memorized by the Couriers Of Faith:
" our current methods of spreading the faith have been not all that effective. search for the people's complaints- pains, dissatisfaction, suffering. search for their wants- aspirations, desires, ambitions. and touch upon them with the faith. there is place for everything on the path, make sure there is a place for them. The spreading of the faith requires your inginuity now. We do not wish you to betray or alter the true faith, just make it more accesible to the misguided masses. then draw them to the full values. the path of the teacher first requires there will be students in the classroom."

"We know the stay away from Eden is tough on you, and that explaining the Source without feeling it is almost impossible. yet these new students of the faith may be our voices amongst the stars. persevere our Children, the Twisted Path guides you all."

OOC:
Action 1: create temporary aspect "Spread of faith"
this mainly refers to the core worlds, though my Teachers will try to get wherever they can
culture +4
-1 linked diplomacy
-1 two actions per turn (might be more)
-1 linked aspect "dependency on Eden" (fate point?)
+2 linked aspect "The all encompasing path" (-1 fate point)
total 4d3-5
[roll0]

Action 2: create a temporary aspect "early warning system on Eden"
the idea is that if the Jasmonites know of a large fleet en route, they may concentrate their forces on the entry point, and gain the element of surprise.and also concentrated enemy.
computers +1
linked engineering +1
linked free aspect "constellation science advisors" +2
-1 two actions in the turn (might be more)
total 4d3-5
[roll1]

[nolispe]

Chaos. Three days ago, the Weekly meeting of the Order's council had erupted into chaos, as the minister for supply's troops burst into the meeting, firing into the seats. Eratio's bodyguard had retaliated, and the crackle of high-energy bullets had torn apart the room. Eratio himself had been gravely wounded, and even now lay in a hospital bed, comatose. In the days that followed, the order tore itself apart, with the supply minister's forces trying to extract themselves from ascension, and both the espionage minister and the economics minister seized the moment to try to gain control over the Order. Even as this happened, the cities of Unity declared Independance, with dozens of demagogues rising up, claiming to be Memenarch's rightful successor as Grand Master.
Actions

1. The scientific faction: try to divert asteroids from orbit to try to cripple the shipyards of Unity.
Fleet with bio synergy (soldier scout creatures to assist) and Genically enginerred caste system (the worker caste is horrifed at the injuring of Memenarch, and will never act without his order, so lack of manpower), and Quality above quantity (ships? What ships?), interferring.
[roll0]

2. The religous faction: Attempt convince the people that the free cities, the Supply Faction, and the Espoinage and economic faction are not following the commands of the Ascended One. Diplomacy, with Genically enginerred caste system (the worker caste is horrifed at the injuring of Memenarch, and will never act without his order, so lack of manpower), Sociopathic (all cities are no under marrtial law by various factions, and there is simply no way that the scientific faction will lift this. the other factions are perfectly willing to shoot on sight), Technology above all! (They are basically working with candles and carts), Quality above quantity (there is simply not enough ships to transport everyone. Just you try walking across a planet.)
[roll1]
3. The supply minister's troops: Try to fight their way through to the shipyards of Ascension, anbd so gain transport to Unity.
Fleet, with Genically enginerred caste system (the worker caste is horrifed at the injuring of Memenarch, and will never support his attackers), Technology above all! (They are basically working with candles and carts), Quality above quantity (there is simply not enough ships to transport everyone. Just you try walking across a planet.) and Sociopathic (Everyone is well aware that is things go south, they and their families lives are forfeit.) Interferring.
[roll2]
4. The Espionage Minister: Attempt to convince Eridani to send aid. Diplomacy, with Genically enginerred caste system (the worker caste is horrifed at the injuring of Memenarch, and will never act without his order, so lack of manpower), Distrusted (In the Re-Alignment war, the Order was deeply reviled after they faked a revolt, to slaughter the enemy leaders as they were at a peace confrence with the "rebels".) and Sociopathic (Everyone is well aware that is things go south, they and their families lives are forfeit.) Interferring.
[roll3]

5. The Economic Minister: Attempt to convince the Empire to send aid. Diplomacy, with Genically enginerred caste system (the worker caste is horrifed at the injuring of Memenarch, and will never act without his order, so lack of manpower), Distrusted (In the Re-Alignment war, the Order was deeply reviled after they faked a revolt, to slaughter the enemy leaders as they were at a peace confrence with the "rebels".) and Sociopathic (Everyone is well aware that is things go south, they and their families lives are forfeit.) Interferring.
[roll4]

6. The Free Cities: Attempt to convince the Empire to send aid. Diplomacy with Genically enginerred caste system (the worker caste is horrifed at the injuring of Memenarch, and will never act without his order, so lack of manpower), Quality above quantity (there are simply not enough ships to communicate effectivily in Unity), Distrusted (In the Re-Alignment war, the Order was deeply reviled after they faked a revolt, to slaughter the enemy leaders as they were at a peace confrence with the "rebels".) and Sociopathic (Everyone is well aware that is things go south, they and their families lives are forfeit.) Interferring.
[roll5]

[Ambon]

The Constellation

Planning“This changes everything” he said.

Kingwell’s avatar sat comfortably on a grey Barcelona chair. In his trademark periwinkle blue uniform, he and his chair were the most decadent features of the virtual environment; a depressing simulation of small office, all in gray. Across from him sat Goldman, or more precisely her avatar, red haired and unhappy, sitting in an equally unhappy steel chair - all straight edges and sharp corners.

Between the two of them a thin waterfall of light rearranged itself into images and text at their pleasure, providing a rapid flow of information. With a thought Goldman broke and rearranged that flow and the obedient pixels divided themselves into three frozen streams: Eridani, The Order, and Tawfret.

“It gives us more options, but the situation is volatile. We can’t afford the Utopia’s dithering.”

Kingwell leaned forward, rubbing his chin. “The Utopia won’t be a problem… but… Lady Luck has a terrible sense of timing. We don’t have any assets in the Order, and it’s too dangerous to attempt any insertions at this point.”

Goldman dissolved The Order from the images. “We shouldn’t divide our attention. The Eridani-Perun-Tawfret situation is more urgent.”

“Agreed. We’ll let Juan and our allies deal with the First Wave. And the Tawfret?”

“The Tawfret,” she spoke their name as if she were spitting out a grape seed,” are a pack of wolves. Don’t be fooled by them, Ash. We’ll but heads eventually.”

“I’d rather we didn’t Tess, but I trust that when that happens, your people will make sure it works out in our favour.”

GNN NewsPress, Security, alarmed by Second Wave arrivals

Leading Sol news organizations and police forces have expressed alarm at the recent arrival at Earth of author and critic Juan de la Cruz and his Second Wave delegation against “First Wave Imperialism”.



The Terran Times warns that Earth potentially faces weeks of incited disorder. “Constellation commanders are threatening to stay however long it takes to guarantee Second Wave rights, threatening weeks of unrest in light of the complex Second Wave situation.”

“The longer their presence in the system, the greater the unnecessary risk to peace and order,” the editorial said.

Representative de la Cruz, it said, “fails to acknowledge the truth about the Second Wave situation, and the desperate threat it represents. He is at the height of his arrogance.”

[Image unavailable. Caption reads “de la Cruz, during previous Earth tour, greeting supporters”]

The Terran Times complained that the Earth government’s tolerance of the Second Wave delegation in Sol space implied it was “giving away political legitimacy.”

Mirroring their complains, the Jovian Herald accused the delegation of defending terrorists and warlords under the guise of anti-Imperialist rhetoric.

“He is wrong if he thinks that he can deceive the people of Earth in believing that the motive of his tour is Second Wave independence.”

“Of course, a small but violent minority will cause trouble,” wrote James Boellstorff at the Lunar Review, “but the majority of Terrans, in fact the majority of First Wave people, support the White Charta and reject violence as a tool for social and political reform.”

[Image unavailable. Caption reads “Map of Human Rights status in the Second Wave”]

The Second Wave lightship arrived in-system yesterday. After a tense standoff with system security forces due to the lack of necessary documentation, the lightship [I]The Hunger of Lions was escorted to shuttle range of Earth.

Negotiations between the Constellation delegation and the Sol governments have not yet started, but rumours abound about the location of de la Cruz, who has supposedly made planetfall.

Actions2 Fate points
Turn 4: adding +1 to diplomacy stat

Action 1
Diplomacy: Petition First Wave governments to cease military and economic aggression against the Second Wave.
Modifiers: -8 (Base), +1 (Diplomacy[1]), +1 (synergy with Leadership[4]), -2 (compelling aspect The Revolution Will Be Televized), -2 (for 3 actions = Total -10
[roll0]

Action 2
Maneuver: Organize support for the Constellation cause at Sol and incite protests against First Wave military action. Create temporary aspect Peace Protests on Earth.
Modifiers: -8 (Base), +1 (Culture[1]), +1 (synergy with Leadership[4]), +2 (tagging aspect, The Revolution Will Be Televized, cost 1 Fate point), -2 (for 3 actions)= Total -6
[roll1]

Action 3
Maneuver: Infiltrate Tawfret society, create temporary aspect Constellation sleeper cells on Tawfret.
Modifiers: -8 (Base), +2 (Espionage[2]), +1 (synergy with Leadership[4]), -2 (3 actions)= Total -7
[roll2]

1 Fate point left

[Kol Korran]

In a blaze of blue-white light, The Jasmonite fleet jumped into the system. While the warships detached form the prized lightships and formed up, probes were sent racing in-system.

Minutes ticked by, as Horrasia waited patiently, watching her own force and arranging it into place, while half-listening to the low murmur of reports from the crew of her flag bridge. The jasmonite fleet have never seen real battle before, and she was a bit worried, but mostly exhilirated. She has trained for this her whole life, a non jasmonite enemy!

then the probes reported back, and she gasped. There they were! and the scans showed they were indeed primed for battle.

She allowed herself a few more moments to analyze the output. their formation was loose, with much greater intervals than in her own fleet. they seemed supremely confident.

This will be difficult, very difficult, but we WILL prevail.

Horrasia smiled, and contacted the fleet "For Eden, my Children, we cannot let them win. A lot is at stake over this! Lets show these adverseries Eden is not all flowers and relaxation, lets show them a real fervor of faith!"

Immediatly the fleet broke up to small autonomous units, as they sped to the enemy. but the enemy was ready as well.

The frist long range shot sailed serenely pass the fleet, a blue-purple haze of high energy particles that could gut anything smaller than a lightship. it missed, but it was a harbinger of things to come. the second one was dead on the mark, turning the Venture forth form 800 meters of seek death to a drifting hulk in a blink of an eye.

As more shots came several of the ships were crippled, some units broke up, the fire was measured, but devistatingly accurate.

The Enemy sent swarms of fighters in. Horrasia marveled at their ellegance- small ships, seemingly too small for manned craft, built both for mining and battle, extremley well piloted, like gracefull hikoyu birds at the Oradian falls! she thought her pilots were good, but they were nothing in comparison. The attackers worked with stunning levels co-operation, dancing around and though her own fighter screens and pulling off g-forces that would shred a pilot, if one were present. She grimaced as more and more of her ships were disabled. there was nothing to it, she hailed the remaining ships on her side "We cannot win, but we'll make them pay. focus on the three ships i'm signsling to you now! get in close, within the range of thier spinal mounts!"

the remaining force, like suicide vessels, used their last bursts of speed to close with the command ships, focusing all their power on them while taking heavy hits. one went down, the second too. only Horrasia's flag ship remained, and not for long. "For Eden!" she called, as she set a collision course to the ship.

with a burst of manuvering jets, her target, a mile long beast of a warship, wrenching itself into a firing position, it"s massive spinal mount pointing straight at Horrasia. she watched the tell-tale flutter of it's firing squence......

the screen went dead,as did the lights for a second, as her ship was 'killed'. in the silent ship, Horrasia cursed, but then smiled. she motioned her helmsman who then activated some circuits that got the ship functioning again.

all around the battle zone Jasmonite ships (and some enemy ships, she noted with pride) were powering up again. Horrasia hollered to the "enemy": "Well done, Fleet-Captain Mykal Cyrus. I, Horrasia of the Jasmonites wish you and your people of the Bowman a challanging and rewarding path! I never envisoned a fleet of such skill! this has certainly been a most excellent battle drill."

"And i return the welcome Horraisa. It's pronounced Mikal, by the way. We are always happy to try out different navies strengths. I must say, I was expecting you to bring more of your fleet here. you couldn't hope to win these odds, not even with your... unconventional tactics. From what i hear of the jasmonites, you might actually use them!"

Horrasia stayed silent for a moment. this WAS nearly the whole fleet, but no need for him to know the whole truth yet. "We jasmonite like to challange ourselves, it wouldn't be a battle if it wasn't against impossible odds. it's under tough situations when you really have to get creative! I'm sure Joel told you that."

There was a laughter she knew well at the background, when he message was returned

"He says Hello. While we all work well under pressure, it is never desireable for us to be under such stress if we can avoid it. Your crews are allright, for non-unioners, but that is all they are: average.

A lot of the traits that make our crews so good cannot be taught, for they are the result of our upbringing, our culture and national indentity. However, we can teach things like our methods, our doctrine, and our views. In fact, we should have a after action report on how you fought ready for your view pleaseure in only a few hours"

Horrasia smiled. Joel done some of their work for them. ""We'd be honored and gratefull, Mikal. If possible however, i'd like to try another battle drill after that?"

Cyrus sighed "Joel said you were a relentless woman when you set your eyes on a goal" there were some whispers, before he continued " especially in battle. well, we have plenty of time. a quick welcoming, a crash course in fighting dirty, and then we'll see what you've learned"

Horrasia nodded to herself- so many pleasures, so little time...

Importent note: the above post is the conjoined effort of myself and Storm Bringer. thanks!

[Grim ranger]

The Templars of New Albion

Nostro Azrael, the emissary of Templar fleet, looked at the screen in front of himself with interest. It showed him picture of fleet assembled to seemingly meet their own head-on...or perhaps merely make contact with them? He could not say, as he had had very little knowledge of what to expect of this territory they left long ago. Armed fleet waiting for them did not seem like good sign for his efforts of unification, but he had always known there was very real chance of resistance. Suddenly the communicator in his ear buzzed, interrupting his thoughts.

"Sir, fleet commander Cailan asks for permission to engage. What should I tell him?"

Nostro lifted his hand to his face in tired gesture, massaging his temples. Leofric's eager attitude towards combat never managed to dispoint, at least not in causing massive headaches.

"Tell him that we are not to engage until I have negotiated with these people. We are here to show them the path, not to butcher indiscriminately. We will fight until it is clear they will reject the path and chance to become part of it, no sooner. He may engage if fired upon, however."

"Understood, sir."

The link went silent once again and Nostro walked further along the bridge of his personal vessel, Shield of Faith. The crewmembers, armoured and armed to the man, hurried along the bridge in their tasks. The emissary moved politely aside as two templars hurried past and strode next to captain of the vessel, who was observing the opposing Sirius fleet through large screen. Both men stood silent for moment.

"The link is ready for you, Emissary. You may begin the transmission when ready."

"Thank you, captain. Be ready to fire in the event that these people prove to be reluctant to join the Path."

The captain nodded his head and went back to giving orders to his crew, leaving Nostro alone with the communicator. For a moment he thought of his ship and many others behind and in front of it, thought of what would happen if this truly became a battle and not simply a declaration. Many, many people would inevitably die.

He looked at the communicator and pressed the activation button, starting to speak in level and serene tone:

"We bear greetings to you, strangers. Greetings and a promise many have waited for long, long time: promise of salvation, of Utopia. We have came from beyond the stars to bear this message and convert the rest of humanity into one, strong whole. Join us, and the salvation of humanity is one step closer: deny us passage and you have sealed your doom. We are Templars of New Albion, returned to make whole that which is so badly broken in this universe: our race."

As Nostro continued speaking, Shield of Faith sent idyllic images of Templar worlds and their white-clad armies to the Sirius expeditionary fleet, adding weight to his speech.

Actions:

Action 1: Convert
Try to persuade Sirius expeditionary fleet to join the Templar ideology.

+0 Diplomacy
+1 Leadership synergy
+2 Utopia aspect. Free tag.
Total modifier: +3
[roll0]

Action 2 (if Convert has failed): Attack
If they won't convert, they will die. Attack Sirius expeditionary fleet with Templar fleet.

+3 Fleet
-1 two actions used this turn
+2 No Mercy, No Respite aspect, tagged.
Total modifier: +4
[roll1]

2 fate points spent

[Eldan]

The JJ:

Hmm. Since you tagged several aspects on that, I'll give you a new aspect for when you are attacked, and also count it as help for perun. Okay?


Narkis:

It's an Über-Railgun alright, but of the kind which fries it's rails after a few shots. Still good as a nasty surprise.

However, in case of attack, you also get a +2 from the JJ and his fleet who will arrive a little late, but perhaps just in time to save your day.


Johel:

It isn't really mass-production yet, but you have produced more GGUNS. You are now the proud owner of three humongous weapons.

Most of the first wave systems give you excuses and delay tactics. However, Sirius, with it's focus on human rights and peace signals that it will itself lobby for peace and try to get Procyon, with it's powerful lightfleets, on your side.


Kol Korran:

Your continuing spreading is starting to show: in the core systems, small groups of "Neo-Jasmonites", "Believers of the Source" and "Path-ites" (that one a short-lived and soon-renamed fad on Centauri) are popping up. Many of them express a desire to emigrate.

You also create a warning system aspect: it's temporary, since the system has to be recalibrated often, but it also gives you a good bonus against everyone trying to attack you with an incoming fleet.


nolispe:

Well, predictably, your actions all fail. I just want to add, however, that attempting 6 actions all guaranteed to fail because you have a -5 to all and apply every aspect you have doesn't mean you get that many fate points. I'll give you 2, but you'll also have negative consequences next turn for failing so badly:

There are now worker riots, Eridani is pissed off at your poor attempt at diplomacy, politics are a shambles and machines and factories are failing everywhere. I'll apply it next turn as necessary.



Ambon:

1 fate point for using an aspect to fail action one. The first wave stands by it's policy of non-interference, politely urging the second wave and eridani to abstain from further violence but, ultimately, taking no action.

However, the protests are starting on earth: in the European Union, South American Confederacy, China and the Pacific Union, people are protesting inactive sol politicians doing nothing to avoid exposing themselves, and further delaying any actions that should be taken.

Many sleeper agents failed to be established, but, finally, a few got in.


Grim Ranger:

The Sirius fleet is reluctant. You blow them up, see below.


GNN special report: War in the Second Wave

We interrupt our regular program for more news from the second wave. Hyperwave reports have just come in showing that a new player has entered the stage: the templars we presented yesterday have sent a fully armed battle fleet. But not only that: they shot down a defensively armed, peaceful expeditionary fleet of the Sirian White Forces. Pan-Jovia and Eridani have called the attack "monstrous" and threaten retaliation.

In related news:
As increasing numbers of second wave delegations make their presence known on Terra, Pan-Jovia's capitol of Callisto City, Sirius and Procyon, First wave councils and politicians still fail to take action for or against either side of the conflict. Peace protesters in Beijing, Brasilia, Canberra, Brussels, Tokyo, Washington and other capital cities of Terra are demanding that the governments finally condemn the threatening imperialism of Eridani, and not only that, but take action to end the various looming conflicts.

[Johel]

{BEGINNING TRANSMISSION}

From : Tawfret Partnership, Tawfret System
To : Czarevich Nicholas, Perun System

Your Imperial Highness,

The Tawfret Partnership has heard of the Empire's recent disagreement with Epsilon Eridani's High Command. Being in a similar position, we can only sympathize with Perun's inhabitants and wish them success in their struggle for independence. A sizeable minority of our citizens have expressed the desire to go further than sympathy and wish to assist the Empire in a more direct way, though.

For diplomatic reason, the Partnership cannot support such desire openly. Yet, as their representative, it is our duty to inform you of this wish and to ask if Your Highness could spare the military means to escort a convoy from the outskirt of the Perun System to the planet known as Home.

If yes, then please find attached a listing of the various goods and services that our citizens are willing to trade. Please also find a suggestion of preferential rules along which such trade should be done for the satisfaction of both parties.

Sincerely yours,

Katharina Pawlak,
Partnership Chairwoman


{TRANSMISSION LOST}

@Narkis :

The list contains the rough design of several spaceships, weapons, automated factories, superconducting material, electronics and also a project to build a antimatter powerplant at around 0.2 AU from your sun.

Also, a list of various "security providers", "private military contractors" and other "space freelancers", along with their ships and armament.

In a specially encrypted file are holographic pictures of your then-still-in-construction railgun. An holographic recording is joined. It displays the three GGUNs, in orbit of a gas giant. Also joined are written records of the GGUN's performances, a price quote and a blank form for order.

WHAT I OFFER YOU :
3 projects :

Construction of an antimatter automated factory : more energy you can imagine. Or at least enough to insure a fast reconstruction of Perun after the war. This will be costly but should bring reward. Once my aspect "A House Divided" rolls ok with it, I'll build it. In exchange, I want 2 Faith Points.
Low-cost leasing of 1 GGUN to the Imperial Navy, along with a crew for technical support. The crew shall be free to act, move and work inside the GGUN. They shall also be able to daily upload their report to the Partnership. You get a temporary maneuverer "Leased Big Freaking Gun", I get to test the GGUN in real situation.
Mercenary army. You can tag my "Wretched Hive" or "Law Enforcement Inc" aspects to represent the fact that Tawfret is the perfect place to recruit mercenaries. You can tag both but this would let Tawfret practically defenseless (and would cost you a lot...). Since you tag aspects, you don't own me anything.

[Kol Korran]

OoC:

end of turn 4 summary: added 1 to fleet (now +2). this represent both ship build up (that has been mentioned), but mostly the expert training recieved from the Bowman.
and as to a new Aspect:
"The Spread of Faith"- the jasmonite belif has been spreading surely, and fast. the Twisted Path is gaining followers all over the human colonies, and there are sympathetic operatives for Eden in every local (within reason. i don't think we infiltrated the blackstar for example). note: i still have a free aspect from the previous round.


Rierden sighed at the variosu coucilors, as more and more requests to arrive at Eden have emerged. not just for pilgrimage, but to emmigrate as well. no one knew that this "reaching out to the stars" would produce such results so fast! he began to see what Erica has mentioend before- the outsiders truly lacked a real way, a real path to guide them. but was Eden prepared for such masses? and did they realy understand the path? they just saw the shiny aspects of it now, the beneficial. they did not fully realise the sacrifice and contemplation they must undertake to understand it fully. yet perhaps they would. in the meantime, maybe they could be used in other ways.
-------------------
Horassia greeted Erica at the door to the great Arena. "greetings Voice of Many, and thank you for joining us here for this practice." Erica looked on graciously, though underneath she was impatient. there were more urgent matters than Horrasia's... games "Why certainly fleet commander! I am curious at what else you have in mind. i trust that the practice with the Union went well?" Horrasia smiled at the memory "more than well, it upgraded our fleet capabilites substantially! But i think we might even improve on that. observe! they now looked into the arena, where thee were two groups of warriors, all ship commanders, in orange and white. at a motion from Horrasia the two groups started to battle with each other, by the martial arts of the Path, but.... Erica's head ached- there was something strange in their movements- though each person movements flowed, they also flowed in unison to each other. they were.... extremley well coordinated. she then gasped- and all of them wore blindfolds! she really became curious then, watching the rapid and percise follwoups of maneuvers. it reminded her of an Auratii swarm.

"What is this?" Horrasia was satisfied, she actually got under Erica's armor. "this is the next level of fighting, compelte coordination between ship commanders. we started to learn of this from the Bowman, but where they act logically, we have taken it to the instinctual level." Erica thought "but can this be applied to space? with it's vast distances?". Horrasia shrugged her shoulders- we don't know, but we have to try, don't we?"

Erica thought for a few seconds more before replying. "pursue this experiment. i want full reports"

"But of course Voice of Many, but of course."


there will be another action (at least one) later on when i can write about it. but for now:
1) create aspect "Battle swarm awareness":
- fleet 2
- unity 2
- culture +1
- 2 actions per turn -1
total: +2= 4d3-6

4d3-6

go horrasia go!

[Kol Korran]

(sorry to double post, but i want to try a post in which the rolls actually work.)
"We need to come together , all of us! humanity has been fractured for too long. there is the way of war, that too exist in the Twisted Path. But before it are the ways of debate, argument, persuasion, and compromise.
(there are murmurs amongst the crowd of Neo-jasmonits)
Humanity is like a house with many children, with the parents as Sol and some of the older first wave colonies, and the children are the second wavers. do not children rebel? show a different character, an independence of their parents? of course they do! and the parents try to guide the young ones, but not hurt them! abuse them! that is wrong, it had not yet come to this!
(some people cry out empathically)
and do not the parents sometime learn from their children, and do not the children learn to respect and appreciate their parents, if they were good and caring? the way of voilence would lead to a deep fracture, that would take centuries to heal! history tells us so over and over and over again!
(again murmurs, some shouts of consent)
The sabotage on the Eridani flagship was done by some errant mad power seeking to destroy us and Tawfret in particular, as was the case with the Jasmonite "terrorist". shall we let this heathen enemy laugh at us all behind our back?! shall our destinies, our futures, our people be torn apart by such devilish scheme?

I call upon you, Potential Children of Eden to call upon your leaders to solve this in peacefull ways, and call for an open investigation by the Sirius appointed investigators into these matters, in order to choose a path that is more becoming. go now, and be the new hope of humanity in this dark hour


action 2: reduce general hostility towards the second world. possibly also initiating a sirius appointed investigation to the two Tawfret related incidents (eridani ship goes boom, and jasmonite terrorists)
diplomacy +2
free aspect (the spread of faith) +2
total +4= 4d3-4
[roll0]
forgot the -1 for two actions. so it's actually 3
preach the word sister! brother!

[nolispe]

Transmission by the ONS*
*Outside the white cathedral. The square is literally filled with millions of people, dispite the shell holes and rubble in the buildings around. the grand cathedral itself has several gaping holes in it's facade. More people stretch as far as the eye can see in the side streets. *
'Eratio Memenarch regained consciousness today, to the adulation of the millions standing vigil outside of the grand cathedral, in faith square.'
'Thank you, Samantha. Now we are going to cut to inside the cathedral, were we have a live feed from spokesperson of the temporary council of the order, Head of the church, Michael Lupus.'
*At the podium outside the Grand Cathedral*
'Citizens, I am priviledged today to announce that we have witnessed a miracle. There is no doubt that Memenarch's survival is a direct result of divine intervension, and a reaffirment of his mandate to rule. When the Apostates struck Memenarch, he was shot more than fifty[/f] times. Any normal person would have died then and there, but Memenarch was warded by the Ascended One. And as he lay, on the border between the higher realms and our own, we showed our faith in the Ascent. Congregations all over Ascension and Unity joined in supplication for Memenarch's life to be saved. And so, our prayers were answered. Memenarch has regained consciousness, and will shortly take full control of the Order in this crisis.'
' That pretty much says it all, folks. We also have infomation on Memenarches position on the recoverability of the Apostate groups. Needless to say, Memenarch will remain in his undisclosed location until he is healed, but we have acquired this tape...
*A scene that is clearly a religious hospital, with black stars and stone everywhere*
'Well, let me first thank the billions who offered prayers to me. It was only those that kept me alive. I would like to take this opportunity to adress the grim fact, that a large number of members of the council appear to have led others astray, as the chaos on Unity demonstrates.'
*Memenarch pauses as mops his forhead with a towel, clearly exhausted by the talking.*
'I would like to take the opportunity to declare Michael Lupus, Head of the religous branch of the order, to be my successor in the event of my incapitation or death. In addition, I would like to make it absolutely clear that [u]all factions barring the order, maintained during this time of troubles by the scientific and religious groups, are engaged in treachery against the Ascended One. I will be back with further infomation when the ascent allows me to.'


*:Order News Service- News Through Faith

[Johel]

Babylon
Attribute (Lightship) +1
Synergy (Fleet) +1
Tagged Aspect (Wretched Hive) +2
Faith point -1

Sky Eye
Attribute (Espionage) +1
Synergy (Computing) +1
2 Actions -1

[Johel]

Babylon
Attribute (Lightship) +1
Synergy (Fleet) +1
Tagged Aspect (Wretched Hive) +2
[roll0]
Faith point -1

Sky Eye
Attribute (Espionage) +1
Synergy (Computing) +1
2 Actions -1
[roll1]

System of Eden

In the outskirt of Eden, space is teared appart as a massive Lightship enters the stellar system.

Immediately, it broadcasts countless of friendly messages while its large hangars open, vomiting a flow of B-class vessels, mainly outdated transports and the likes. If any Jasmonite ship is listening to the transmission of the ships, it ears messages from thousands of happy migrants, most of whom are indeed true believers.

Some of the B-ships, barely a dozen actually, are however far from outdated. They are state-of-the-art survey vessels and quickly accelerate on a course toward the 6 habitable planets of the system. Once they get in the Eden system itself, they fire unmanned probes. If contacted, the crews are instructed to state that they are on a mission of peaceful exploration.

Finally, right around the Lightship, a swarm of small vessels deploys. Those are unarmed C-class ships and are mean for local constructions. A single B-class ship of colossal proportion is also there : a moving factory.

Moving Factory RT-045

"-So, how's it going ?"
Ruttgers leaned against the consol, waiting for the ensign to answer.
"-Most vessels are heading toward their destination as planned. No incident among the passengers. At least, nothing worth mentionning : the usual space sickness, heat strokes, ect... We've been detected by the locals but so far, no action nor communication."
"-Good... So, those idiots might make it safe to da ground, after all. They might even settle without our help."

He didn't believe it himself.

Once they would land, the colons would be under severe scrutiny from the Jasmonites. But that wasn't a real problem. What could they do, really ? The ships weren't mean to bring the colons back. No, the Jasmonites would have to welcome them. But that didn't mean they would let the colons run around freely. Hence the presence of the factory : further immigration would be needed.

The mercenary lit a cigar while watching the small dots on the tactical holographic sphere. Each of them carried a handful of his operative, hidden among hundreds of refugees. The beauty ? None were armed or equip with anything suspicious. They were just like other refugees. Except that they didn't share the conviction of the adepts.

"-And the probes ? How's that going ?"
Short silence. The voice of Ruttgers took a slightly menacing tone.
"-Soooooo ?!"
"-We... Hum... we pick up signals..."
"-Good !! What are the reading ?"
"-It's... I... I'm not sure, Sir. Maybe we should wait for more data and..."
"-What...are...the...reading, boy !!!??"

The ensign stepped back from the screen. It was blue. Completely blue.
"-That's the last transmission. We... we had told them that this OS could cause some problem and..."
"-Aaaaaaarh !!!"
The console exploded when a fist went through it.

[Kol Korran]

Defensive action against Babylon: turn away most of the newcomers (including infiltrators)
culture +4 (using culture to make them realise being jsmonites will be a hard thing, also choosing only true believers to stay)
diplomacy -1
tagging "the all encompasing path" +2 (-1 fate point) 2 fate points remaining
total +5
4d3-3

oh, and one more thing: just as i was trying to help you? what a marvelous bastard! :smallwink:

the early warning system, newly installed recognized the small Tawfret fleet some time before it arrrived. hurried counsels were made. the fleet was set in advance. yet the incoming force looked too small for an invasion fleet. another attempt as Night Sky? it was a bit big for that as well. actually, it's size was just enough for one purpose... The Jasmonite Emergency council smiled in Unison. they have prepared a plan for such an occasion since the Partnership made it's intention known.
Rierden messaged Horrasia: "Fleet Commander, prepare your ships. the order has been given. Commence Operation "Open Arms". Rierden Jasmon out."

----Stage 1: Interception----
Horrasia spread her fleet over all 6 planets, the babble from the excited Tawfret transports. she gives the order to engage. the Jasmonite fleet sped to the transports, hailing greetings to the new comers, in the exact wording that the ministery of foregin affairs have chosen for this occasion- welcoming words, but non obligatory, and firmly but gently making sure they know this is the Jasmonites turf. the message ends with the words of the VOice of Many "Far Away children of the Source, I welcome you to Eden. i wish to speak with all of you together on this special occasion. your escorts will direct and escort you to Rapture, our beloved third planet, to a field prepared to accept you, where i will speak with you. Welcome to Eden children."

the ship captains hail the Tawfret transport and escort them towards Rapture, to the field beside Genesis. the Tawfretians are confused, but also elated that they have been accepted by Erica Brium herself!

Meanwhile, a few more ships close on the factory. it will not be allowed to land "Any permenant structure on Eden must be made from Eden's materials. the harmony of the force will not be disrupted. the newcomers will learn to provide forthemselves in the Jasmonite way, as this is Jasmonite jurisdiction." some arguments follow, some of them angry indeed, but the second to Horrasia does not give in.

----Stage 2: welcoming awakening.----
the masses were spread around the space. they were many of them, but fewer than she expected. a few large screens have been set all around the
area. and quite a few jasmonite teachers amongst the excited new comers, talking with them, easing their fears but also, very deliberatly, making them understand that the Twisted Path can be quite demanding here on Eden, and that for many of them life involves self-induced hardships and challanges. though welcoming, the teachers were also specifically instructed to give the clear notion that the Tawfretians are just on the start of their spiritual path.

it was time. Erica stepped to the podium, and raised her hands. small waves of noise and then silence followed. she then spoke "Brothers and sisters, fellow humans, fellow seekers of the path. Eden, the Source, and the Jasmonite people welcome you to us. I am Erica Brium, the Voice of Many to our people, and as such i speak with their conjoined voices and beliefs. we welcome you here on this pilgrimage to this holy system. you must allready feel the Source touching upon you, as many others visitors have mentioned before.

there were excited murmurs in the crowd, as people called their confirmation an elation.

"but a few months ago Eden was unknown to the great universe, yet within you i see the new hope of the spread of the Twisted Path to enlighten the lives of all of humanity! you are the pioneers of a new age! you are what we call- path makers, and you shall lead others in your footsteps. your experiences are different from those born of Eden, and so you bring new things to the path. the path welcomes new influences, as it twists and turns and makes them it's own. you are like a new clan, from a land unknown come to join us!

Erica stops for some cheering in the crowd. it was time to start and lay the hard news now. gently though... "you have all learned the basics of our faith, and in time you will learn it's intricate nuances. spiritual growth is a never ending process, and even the most esteemed amongst us are but pupils to the teaching cosmos. yet you, amongst all people have chosen to come here to Eden. we Jasmonites are Custodians of Eden, and as we share the benevolence of the Source, we also share responsebilities. few of you know the story of Alisin Jasmon, the founder of our faith. i would like Teacher Alcuray to lead us in sermon and prayer of his life story.

she could sense the confusion in the crowd, as Alcuray approached the podium. the teachers within the crowd soothed the fears, and shown enthusiasem to the prayer, and they intoned it silently, word for word. part of the training after all.

the story of Alisin span her radical new beliefs, her reliance of the source, but also her persecution, as she started gathering followers. this particular sermon however focused on The Six Trials- long periods of hardships that Alisin went through, which concluded in some great enlightment, and a greater connection to the source (or so the stories say). these new hardships were not that familiar to the new comers though... some disliked them, some accepted them. there were mixed feelings and confusion.

as the sermon ended Erica approached the Podium once again. "as the reverend Alisin Jasmon, we Jasmonites also go through the 6 trials in our growing up. the trials are there to prepare us to live in unison with the Source, be one with it. the Trials also bring the basic of jasmonites faith to bear, cleansing your soul and making it ready for the next contemplative steps in enlightment.

If you wish to join us, live here on Eden, than you must fully become Jasmonites. the responsebility is too great for any lesser venture. in the following 3 weeks you'll be on a pilgrimage here in Eden. you will see life here as it truly is- all it's wonders, all it's hardships. you will be divided into the clans, as they will be responsible for your wellfare and spiritual guidance here on Eden. we seek to divide you for only by letting free from old frames will you be able to accept new ones. Individuality is a core aspect of Jasmonite belief, and Jasmonite existence. you will see the cities, clan lands, work sites, and trial and growth sites. you will join meditations, arguments and debates.

at the end of the 3 weeks we shall meet again. those of sufficient spiritual growth, who wish to live here on Eden, will be assimilated to their tribes to under go The Six Trials. most of our young take around 3-4 years to experience them, though you might achieve enlightment sooner.

there were confused murmurs from the crowd then, some even angry. Erica continued.

"I am aware that this is not what you have expected. But being part of the Source, for each soul on Eden affects it, bears some responsebility. if you choose not to undertake the trials you are still welcomed for a pilgrimage on Eden, after which you'll be escorted back to your ships, until a later time when you wish to become Jasmonites in full.

You can still follow the faith abroad, at time. when we understand the nature of the trials you go on other system, maybe we'll see they are a match to ours, and we'll be able to attest to your spiritual enlightment, and then you might yet come to Eden in the future. we as the Custodians of Eden must stand by our sacred vows.

there was a bit more soothing, encouraging sermon that followed, meditating on the Source this time, focusing their awareness on the good feeling it bestows.

the teachers went to gather the team rosters, as supply units set up accomodations and food for the newcomers. tommorow they'll be seperated to the clans.

----Stage 3: Education----
the Tawfretians were divided to some of the thousands of sub clans of the Jasmonite society. there they were divided into sects, and then families. children were not seperated from their parents, though the Tawfret found that there are clans whose whole job was to take care for the education and growth of young ones! thogh many clans, the Jasmonite were quite a sparse people.

they were moved from clan to clan, the Jasmonites easely practiced to this logistics by their own emigrations. the new comers indeed see some sights, but each at least visited the site of one or more trials (where teen agers went through various ordeals, such as spending months in solitude to reach enlightment and more) an all the time they were questioned, challanged, argued with, poked with outragous concept and ideas. the jasmonites were testing them, and trying to enlighten them. the way to growth lay in asking real questions...

to some Tawfret this came as a blessing, to most it did not. the hardships of the intense jasmonite spiritual life were not easy ones. most understood they were just not ready.

----stage 4: initiates and believers----
They were all gathered once more in the assembly area. Erica was speaking to them again. these three weeks have indeed been eye opening. The Twisting Path is hard, especially to a jasmonites. some were found worthy, most ofthem wished to stay (more than Either Erica or Rierden expected!) and they were to undergo the trials. most of the newcomers though did not feel ready. they wished to undertake lighter spiritual worship.

some time was given to complete the pilgrimage, not seperated anymore, in a more relaxed manner, without too much religious content. and where there was any, it was focused on how the newcomers might be the pioneering way in the galaxy, how they might create new paths for the Twisting path. they were given purpose, hope, and belief. and with that, they boarded their ships back home.

[Johel]

Meanwhile, a few more ships close on the factory. it will not be allowed to land "Any permanent structure on Eden must be made from Eden's materials. the harmony of the force will not be disrupted. the newcomers will learn to provide for themselves in the Jasmonite way, as this is Jasmonite jurisdiction." some arguments follow, some of them angry indeed, but the second to Horrasia does not give in.

The answer didn't take long to arrive :

"-Moving Factory RT-045. Captain Yamato speaking. Greeting, Sir. Our sincere apologies if we...Aaaaah !!"
"-Give me that, you crybaby !!"
*Some noise, a few whines*
"-That's right !! Now go hide in your quarters !! And tell one of your sailor boys to fetch me something to drink !! 'call himself a captain. Bah !! Well... Where was I ? Oh, yeah !! The hippies are on the line !!"
*poke the micro a few times*
"-Hello, hello, name's Ruttgers. I'm sure I don't need to tell where I come from or what I am, right ? Ok, then, listen clear : Ya want us to use Eden's material ? Well, that's good because that space station ain't gonna build itself !! So our good little workers here are gonna pick a few asteroids from the outer belt to build it. Is that enough of "Eden's material" for ya, apes ?! Not that I care, see... We gonna build it anyway. Watchyougonna do about it ? Fire at an unarmed civil vessel ?"

[Kol Korran]

"-Hello, hello, name's Ruttgers. I'm sure I don't need to tell where I come from or what I am, right ? Ok, then, listen clear : Ya want us to use Eden's material ? Well, that's good because that space station ain't gonna build itself !! So our good little workers here are gonna pick a few asteroids from the outer belt to build it. Is that enough of "Eden's material" for ya, apes ?! Not that I care, see... We gonna build it anyway. Watchyougonna do about it ? Fire at an unarmed civil vessel ?"

Horrasia recieved the transmission to her ship. What space station? they thought they were going to build a foreign space station here?! the nerve of the Tawfret! thankfully, they have prepared for such an eventuality as well. "Take it down" she messaged the Onir's* ships.

the ships close on the huge factory. the ships were used to deal nonlethaly with errant clanlords, or criminal outputs. and they were properly armed. a few missiles were aimed at the Factory's engines. as the missiles came close they launched a tethering cable to the engines, through which they then emited powerfull pulses. moments later, the engines were down. the factory floated in space.

Horrasia ignored the angry transmission that followed, as the Onir ships closed in, shot quite a few more cables, and started to move the massive form towards the fourth planet.

Horrasia messaged that Ruttger "This is fleet commander Horrasia. you are being taken towards Reverence. you have commited an illegal act against the Jasmonite people, by the insistence of using Eden';s bounty, and by launching the Sky Eye probes yet again. you have been warned.therefore the factory will be deactivated and you'll enjoy the comfort of our holding facilities. since I assume this has been some sort of a misunderstandings, I expect you will be soon released and setn home. but the final decision lies with the councial of clan leaders, and the juristicators. we can sedate you if needed. please, do not cause us to do so. may this experience lead you to enlightment, and may you enjoy the beneficiary of the source. Horrasia out."

the next line of outburst actually made her smile.
----------
the factory crew (and Ruttger), through their stay, are subjected to intense religious preaching and attempts of conversion. this goes on through out the day while they are being held. they are sent back with the returning immegrants, who are also full of religious fervor.

*sort of the police force of the Jasmonites.

[Johel]

Beside insulting the Jasmonites on every single open channel, the Factory does nothing to resist. The 7000 men and women on board simply "enjoy" Eden's hospitality, hoping for a quick diplomatic solution.

The Tawfret Partnership is indeed quick to contact Eden.


-------
{BEGINNING TRANSMISSION}

From : Tawfret Partnership, Tawfret System
To : Erica Brium, Eden System

Revered Voice of the Many,

It has come to our knowledge that you are holding assets belonging to the Tawfret Partnership. Since no leasing agreement has been signed regarding this affair, we demand you to turn these assets over, undamaged and with their whole content.

I would also like to express the Partnership's concerns regarding the technical and security personel currently held in Jasmonite custody. Each of them represent an important investment and we expect them to be returned to orbital plateform TW-008, Tawfret System, in the shortest delay.

Sincerely yours,

Katharina Pawlak,
Partnership Chairwoman
{TRANSMISSION LOST}


-------

TW-008

It was done.
Katharina leaned back on her chair, pressing her hands on her face as exhaustion and stress rushed back at her.

Eridani, Sirius, Eden, her reelection campaign and the daily routine... She was overwhelmed. Yet, somehow, it was worth it, i only for the pride, power and wealth. Small things but they were what made a human life worth living.

The Chairwoman dialed a series of numbers on the keyboard of her holographic projector. A 3D representation of the six planets of Eden appeared, each more beautiful than the last. In what little free time she had, Katharina daydreamed about the villa she would make built there. She was still hesitating about the planet, though.

New combination, new picture. This time, it was a life broadcast. The final loading stage of the Lightship "Boldness", which was going to cover the Tawfret-Eden line on a monthly basis from now. Already, hundreds of transports were parking inside the gigantic bays of the leviathan. It was but a matter of time before the Jasmonites would have to accept the flow of refugees...

[Kol Korran]

OOC:

Decleration! "The truth behind the Angel's face" costing me 1 faith point! see the following for details. i hope i'm making this right.


----GNN Breaking news in Science!----
greetings all, we are here with one of the constellation prime scientists, Mister Adadm Sheffield. appearently he has some world changing news about Eden, and the Mysterious Source! Mr. Shefflield?

Thank you Anya. the Jasmonites have contacted our scientists some months ago, requesting to explore the phenomenon known as the Source, mostly concerned that their people, while traveling aborad feel a sort of "loss" and "lack of vitality". upon reaching Eden we have observed that this source was no religious makeup! it was a substantial force. even our scientists, like many other who visited the jasmonite resource or recent pilgrimars have felt what they say a "warm sensation" and "peace of mind". our scio-sensosrs have detected a significant rise in mental warefare molecules, amongst others. it is worhty of note to tell that the Edenits themselves seemed to be far more subjected and affected by this phenomenon, which we could not guess at a time.

we had tried different approaches, from chemical, physical, biological and sociological, but could not found a conclusive evidence. not until the edenites allowed us to examine the holoboint make up of their bodies.

"Excuse me Prof. Sheffield, but what is a holobiont?"

"oh sorry, i am used to talk to my colleagues back at the universities. a holobiont is the makeup of all the microorganism residing and cooperating with a multicellular body. in the 20th century these were regarded seperatly, but we now know that many of the phenotypes, or attirbutes if you will, of a multicellular organism dervie from the society of uni-cellular creatures within it. and even sub cellular, as were discovered in the late 21st century.

but i am digressing. surprisingly, the Edenites body contain a very specific mixture of unicellular and sub ceslluar organism, which we termed bit-morphers, who interact with the body to an unprecedented degree! in fact, our research suggests that through out the generations, these organisms have actually changed the very nature of the Edenites, on a molecular and genetic level. the Edenites show different proteines, and lipid membrane structure, and their genome is almost far enough from... um... normal humans, that they could almost be considered a different species.

which brings me to our second discovery. these organisms have seemingly created a dependency of the body on them. the organisms, unique to this system, respond to specific wave emmisions from the Edenits sun, similar to Chloroplasts. there are about 11 wave lengths we have established, but there seem to be more. the reason Edenites seem so "deenergized" when away from home is because that they are away from their action spectrum needed for the Bio-morphs. ity is a wonder that they function at all! considering the level of dependency between host and biomorph. they are practically one creature!"

"Excuse me again Sheffield, but are these microorgansim dangerous? do people who visited Eden subject to this change? are the bio-morph contagious?"

Sheffiled looked a bit downcast. "We are... uncertain so far. you see, there haven't been any long case study of this, since there haven't been any long temr exposure. our theory suggest that those who visti Eden, such as me and my fellow scientists, do contact the biomorph. but the transformation seem to take a long time, mainly through Gamete alteration. and once you leave Eden, the Biomorph become mostly dormant it seem. some people have still reported a slight buzz when visiting certain systems, perhaps their suns emit the right wave lenghts as well. it is hard to say. we will know in years to come. so far i urge caution."

"A question by a viewer, who says he's a prominent neo jasmonite: why shouldn't we all transform? the jasmonites suffer no diseases, and they seem at bliss."

Sheffiled laughed "i visited Eden myself, and some of my team have wondered the same. but you see, in early Jasmonite history, there have been a great number of deaths and still borns, and we think these are failed alterations by the biomorph, a sort of very powerfull natural selection. and it seems that the biomorphs, while making their new bodies more resilient and capable, also seem to make them more and more sterile. again, the choice is yours, but i suggest caution."

"So is this source nothing but a combination of particular emmisions and highly bonding microorganisms?"

"It might be that, again, our breakthroughs are new, and some might yet refute them. but all evidence so far point to it being so, along with a strong conviction by the jasmonites themselves. that can't be underestimated though."

"And what of the Jasmonite faith? the so called Twisted path? how does it affect that?"

Sheffield looked perplexed "since when did Sciene determine what people believe or won't belive madam? i'm a man of facts, i leave belief to other people".

"thank you Prof. Sheffield. as we understand there has been no reponse of Eden yet as to these news. all communications with them regarding the matter have been answered in silence. Join us next as we open the debate about the matter "promise of Eden, or alien?"

---------------------
Erica Brium, along with Rierden walked silently to the gathering hall. this won't be an easy month at all...

[Johel]

Babylon : bring more ships and colons into Eden, set an outpost in space.
Attribute (Lightship) +1, Synergy (Fleet) +1
[roll0]
Sky Eye : scan of the planets and orbital structures with unmanned probes.
Attribute (Espionage) +1, Synergy (Computing) +1, 2nd Action -1
[roll1]

Orbital Hydroponic Farm TW-054, Tawfret System

"-So, these planets are not fit for long term colonization ?"

Sighs and groans were whispered through the board members of Sonara Hydroponic. The last news regarding the Eden system weren't exactly good, especially for one of the galaxy's leading food producers.

"-Not exactly, Sir. While the local biomorphs are indeed harmful for the human foetus, it doesn't kill adult humans. So the first generation of colons will be safe. We will however require a steady import of workforce in the following decades if we are to maintain the population's level."
"-How did the Jasmonites do to prosper, then, if they are barren ?"
"-They are not barren, Sir. Nor are they less fertile. The biomorphs simply kill most the foetus while trying to infect them."
"-So, it's a disease ? Curable ?"
"-Disease are nothing but parasite infestation. And all parasites have their weakness. The problem would then be the withdrawal period for the already-infected people. But of course, this will take time, numerous test and with the current interstellar limits on bioengineering... Decades might be needed. Of course, if we could somehow get willing test subjects..."

The subtle suggestion wasn't lost to the board. Those were experienced businessmen. They knew what it means.
"-In favor of increasing our support to the Babylon project ?"
All hands raised.


-------

Dome 78, 7th moon of Tawfret.

Jimenez and Hsia had been walking for a good ten minutes now, barely exchanging words. Each being the representative of a powerful group of partners, they had their pride. Each had something to ask but to do so first was to put himself in a weakened position for the negotiation to come.

Around them, the other visitors had their own discussions, most of them light and joyful, with a couple of children running around the green beauty of Dome 78's artificial garden. This luxurious complex was a marvel, one of the few that Monsanto Incorporated had built.

Built on one of the gas giant's moons, the resort was reserved to the wealthy and powerful elite of Tawfret. Yet, the 9 square miles of Dome 78 were tiny and dull when compared to some of the holographic pictures of Eden's worlds. Hsia had downloaded some and, like most citizens of Tawfret, he had immediately seen the potential.

"-Thinking of the cost to maintain such marvel... One could power a whole mining facility with the energy wasted here in a single day."
"-Well, technology can't replace a natural ecosystem. Not as efficiently, that's it. If it wasn't for TW's chemical resources, I don't think Tawfret would even have been colonized."
"-Some of the moons were worth the investment too."
Jimenez chuckled.
"-Rocks... Out of the 23, only 2 have an atmosphere. And only one has the right atmosphere !! I agree, that's still worth it but... come on, both of us have visited the ecological reserve of Earth. You know those moons will never even come close to that."
"-I know... But there's no world like Earth is. Or rather like Earth was."
"-There is."

And it had begun. Ngô Hsia smiled.
"-You are refering to Eden ?"
"-Let's not waste our time. Babylon might succeed or might fail but it won't be the only project of its kind. All these projects cannot be profitable without a stable local population, though."
"-I read the reports. Such a shame... We should have invested more in biotechnology, now, should we ?"
"-Rumors are you did."
"-Rumors are rumors. Which one are you refering to, exactly ?"
"-One involving a botched viral attack on the Jovians. The Order wasn't accused directly and the whole mess was covered for diplomatic reasons...but evidences remain. The Order couldn't have gone through the custom border without a few pushes...and a lot of cash."
Hsia didn't buy the bluff.
"-You know that fake evidences are a luxury no man in our position cannot disprove. Blackmail won't work."
He walked near a beck, in which frogs were swimming.
"-There's a old story regarding these creatures and an ox. Do you know it ? I think it apply to your situation here. But let's forget this. You are searching a solution to Eden and so do I..."
"-The question is the cost..."
"-And who will bear it. I honestly don't trust biotechnology. Your idea was good, young man. But the Partnership and its allies simply don't have a strong enough grasp on that kind of thing. What we do understand, however, are machines, chemistry and physics. We should play with the tools we got rather than misuse those we don't. A very interesting project had been mailed to me. I'll share with you."
"-And the price ?"
Again, Ngô Hsia smiled.


-------

Eden System

In the month following the arrest of Rutgers and the crew of the RT-045, the Lightship "Lack of Inspiration" had returned to Tawfret while the Lightship "Boldness" had departed for Eden, the two vessels doing a permanent shift to maintain the Tawfret-Eden interstellar line.

Therefor, the second wave of colons arrived. But this time, while a fleet of derelict ships and a moving factory had been carried by the "Lack of Inspiration", the "Boldness" carried a well-armed fleet of patrol corvettes instead, along with more construction ships...and unmanned probes.


-------

{BEGINNING TRANSMISSION}

From : Corvette PTY-896, Eden System
To : Erica Brium, Eden System

Revered Voice of the Many,

In the name of the Tawfret Partnership, we request that you turn over all of the Partnership's assets and personnel you hold, undamaged and with their whole content.

Failure to do so in the next 96 hours will result in retaliation against Jasmonite military assets.

Regards,

Commander Smith,
Smith & Carlton Security
{TRANSMISSION LOST}