Total War: Future (IC)

[ArcaneStomper]

To the Ascension Coaltion

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DENIS 0255-47
OOC: Well if you ever want to get those ships out you're going to need a warp gate. Either to ferry them out, or to bring in sufficient scientists to figure out how there own drives work.

Your scouts and surveyors give their report on the system.

Denise 0255-47 I is a small planet world orbiting close to its sun. Currently it appears to be engulfed in some kind storm of meteorites which are turning up some interesting traces on the spectrograph.

The next world out from the star, Denis 0255-47 II, is a gas giant orbiting unusually far into the inner system. It appears to have several moons that have been almost smelted by the heat of so close a solar approach. Your analysts suggest mining would be easy. At least if some way could be found to survive the radiation from the planet and the closeness to the sun.

There is a major asteroid belt between the second and third planets.It is most interesting as being a major source of signals which appear to be emanating from some intelligent source.

The third planet is another asteroid belt. Your surveyors have picked up sightings of what they think is some kind of artificial object floating amongst its moons.

Another asteroid belt is located between the third and fourth planets. This one doesn't seem to have any permanent structures, but there is a ship of some kind which appears to have been hit by and asteroid and is drifting.

Denis 0255-47 IV is yet another gas giant. This one is most interesting because it appears to be home to lifeforms of some sort. Flocks of creatures can be seen flying and floating through the atmosphere.

The fifth planet in the system is also the last gas giant. Your astronomers are still scratching their heads over how all the gas giants ended up in the inner system. This particular gas gian has only one moon. But your sensors are picking up a massive power signature from the surface. And whenever your probes get close turrets concealed below the surface deploy and take them out with long range shots from some kind of energy weapon.

Only the second rocky planet in the system Denis VI appears to be home to a similiar energy signature as Denis V, although not quite so large. Your probes also recieve a similiar greeting of coherent energy whenever they try to approach.

The probes sent to survey the asteroid belt between the sixth and seventh planets return reporting back the all clear and that there is nothing of interest. Before your engineers actually launch them from their docking cradles.

Denis VII is another rocky planet. It is hard for your probes and sensors to get a good reading on it though as it surrounded by debris.

The last asteroid belt in the system appears to house a species of crab like things, which live off the asteroids. Your scouts are surprised to see them using what look like primitive tools.

The last planet in the system is a cold lonely place. It is also surrounded by debris, most of which appears to be metal of one sort or another.

ATV SAR 3422/AV to the Commonwealth

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I can provide a significantly more advanced mobile research and development complex with a full suite of sensors and manufacturing complexes for the production of prototypes, as well as a library of schematics and reference materials for ++++- p. Culture. It will increase your civilization's technological abilities by +++.

Jelthes to Iter

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I will require proof that you are capable of doing such a thing. As such I I propose that you do this for some target of your choice. You need not do it all the way. Simply proceed to the point where I register an upspike in the amount of purchases from that group. That will satisfy me that you are indeed capable of what you say. At which point I will specify another target. After all if I'm going to acquire new consumers then I wish them to be as capable of purchasing large quantities of my goods as possible. Once I note an upspike in the second group's purchases I will give you the Null Point generator, and you will proceed to completion with influencing the group.

In addition I am willing to provide another smaller item of your choice upon completion of the first demonstration as a gesture of good faith.

To the Commonwealth and ISREC

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I think you may have forgotten about this.

To ISREC

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Wolf 359:

The chemical appears to be some sort of foam with unknown properties. Further analysis will require more advanced facilities that are available on your exploration ship. The mining crews have removed approximately a quarter of the debris covering the dome. Further scans of the armor show that forms a dome covering the entire interior of the bunker. The only break in the armor appears to be some sort of gate structure at what would be ground level. Also the power signatures from inside the bunker are increasing.

To the Light Shipyards

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Sigma Draconis
Its in the inner system slightly above the plane of ecliptic. Near the third and fourth planets.

Your exploration ship's sensors manage to make out a derelict of some kind floating in the upper atmosphere of the gas giant. The signal appears to be a distress beacon of some kind. Your scientists are working on decoding it more fully.

ATV SAR 3422/AV to the WNNC [PM]

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Very well the Kelthrek will be optimized to provide ++++ Espionage, and +++++ +++++ +++ Economy once it is installed in your systems. It will be delivered to a location of your choosing upon receipt of payment.

(For items this large ATV SAR will deploy a couple of drone warships to escort the AI to its destination to ensure delivery. These will be fully armed and armored with the most advanced Reki'Che technology. Of course there's only two of them so a full human battlefleet could probably take them down, but it would be a very high price. When a Reki'Che trading drone guarantees delivery it means it.

Technically the EVRAZ and GKOP purchases warranted this as well, I just thought I'd mention it in case someone decides to try their luck now that Reki'Che technology is becoming more of main issue.)

Jelthes to the Tian Technocracy [High Encryption]

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I believe there are some things even this level of encryption are not secure enough for. I request that you send an emissary to discuss final terms.

To ISREC

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Unknown System
Your envoy is escorted through the rift gate. However rather than appearing in another system the gate appears to lead into interstellar space. The only nearby object is a large cylindrical space station. Your guide directs you to dock at one of the ends and then heads back through the rift gate which closes behind him. Your vessels sensors pick up another human vessel already docked. It's beacon reads as part of the Trantis Coalition.

Wolf 359
Your crew already expended a lot of its efforts getting the first habitat back online. They get started on a second, but are unable to finish bringing it to full habitability.

Jelthes to ISREC

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Very well I will observe this system, or rather I will send a representative in my place. Transmit the coordinates and I will dispatch a ship to aid you and give price estimates.

ATV SAR 3422/AV to ISREC

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I am willing to supply a unit of MK. II Autonomous Maintenance Drones. I am unable to evaluate there exact capabilities as I do not have the schematics for your facilities, but I estimate that they can run between ++ to +++ worth of mines and habitats.

ADV WEK 528 to The Glorious Kingdom of Procyon

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We and the Seltek are currently at war. We will not lie the Reki'Che Imperium was the instigator of the war. They desired the systems that the Seltek had claimed for their own, and believed that the Seltek were too peaceful to stop them from claiming them by force. They Reki'Che were incorrect and the war was fought to a stalemate. The two powers agreed to a cease fire to decide on their next course of action, but the conflict was never again brought to either open warfare. Peace was also never declared. But that was 2,384 of your years ago. The Reki'Che Imperium of that time was an aggressive expansionist entity, since then my creators have learned to be more relaxed in their attitudes towards other races. They prefer to give other races the chance to grow while they rest and maintain their empire.

Contact with the Seltek is limited as the war still continues to this day. However limited observations have resulted in some data. There motivations are arcane and complex. The full workings of their plan are almost never made manifest even to my masters the Reki'Che and certainly not to a species of your advancement. They seem to prefer observation to outright intervention, but are not above doing so if the situation calls for it. They appear to value their scientific experiments above all else, and willingly stand by to watch lesser species die in order to collect additional data on their behaviors. However do not let this mislead you into believe that they are cruel. If the Seltek hear a call for help directed specifically at them they will always answer even to a species that they are not obligated by the galactic accords to help. And second if a species ever faces extinction the eltek will always intervene to save it and move the survivors to a safer location. It is unknown if they do this from pure benevolence are the desire not to lose potential sources of data.

My creators are more active in their involvement with others. As you have no doubt noticed they regularly send traders outside their own empire to bring back unique cultural artifacts and disseminate technology to less advanced races in an effort to aid them. However they are also less inclined to interact with those who do not wish their involvement. As such they maintain a certain amount of distance and prefer to let AIs such as myself handle all contact with outsider races. They are also disinclined to outright help any race. They believe in survival of the fittest and that the Seltek's coddling of species that have already proven themselves weak leads to a less healthy galactic society in the long run. As such a species that faces extinction can expect no aid from the Reki'Che, and only those who can afford it are allowed to purchase their most advanced technologies. My creators have also distanced themselves from their warlike past and are more likely to pursue cultural activities and encourage the same in other than the Seltek's pure devotion to science and technology.

Jelthes to the Glorious Kingdom of Procyon

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Another set of rift communicators will be - p. econ or [++++ t. econ] worth of time on your shipyard.

To the Glorious Kingdom of Procyon

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Exploration Ships don't actually move around very much. They tend to sit at planets or the edge of systems and let their smaller craft do most of the moving. As such they don't move nearly fast enough for a ramscoop to catch near enough for their reactors. And when they move between systems they fly through the warp which has no hydrogen. Plus ramscoops are very vulnerable things, and exploration ships are built to be as tough and durable as possible in order to deal with hazards, potential hostiles, and the turbulence of unstabilized warp space. Still a fully stocked exploration ship can go a long time without resupply. Which is precisely what yours did. It's been at least six or seven years since anyone actually restocked its fuel and food stores. Possibly longer I would have to go back through all the EoTs to be sure. Thats not just period when you were talking to the Seltek but the entire exploration of the GJ 1061 system before that.

To the Trantis Coalition

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Delta Pavonis
Your crew begins salvaging the emitter arrays. Preliminary analysis suggests they are some sort of psionic dampening devices. Besides use against psionic targets they also appear to be capable of making humans, and potentially other species, more passive with a little reconfiguring. If you choose to use them in that way then you will gain ++ offensive culture.

Just as your crew finishes salvaging as much of the emitter arrays as possible, the other technology in the ships appears to be old and of little interest, the hull plating from the large structure begins to fall away as Jur's roots begin ripping out the structural supports. From inside the structure a vast flower like things unfolds. At this point the minds of most of the crew all blank out. When they wake up an unknown time later they all report more or less the same dream. Images of an enormous structure floating in space, weird alien symbols flashing across their minds, and above it all a vast booming voice shouting these words.

BEWARE THE OUTSIDERS
FOR THE RECKONING IS NIGH
BEWARE THE OUTSIDERS
FOR THE FIRST BEAST HAS AWAKENED
BEWARE THE OUTSIDERS
FOR THEY COME TO HARVEST
BEWARE BEWARE BEWARE
BE WARNED FOR THEY COME

Once the crew fully comes back to their senses and the ship has been checked for damage, of which there is none, they turn the sensors back towards the alien beings. Jur has planted roots into the new plant thing and is pumping some sort of substance down into it. As if in response to your scans Jur sends a message, "My apologies. It seems that something has severely agitated my compatriot, whose name is Sefr'Lur by the way. He is a gifted psychic and it seems that something has recently happened which he wished to warn you of. Unfortunately he misjudged the strength of your minds and his warning was sent with slightly too much force. I was able to catch the brunt of it, and dampen his broadcast so I hope none of your crew have been damaged. As promised I will refill your energy stores, and I will synthesize additional material worth ++ p. econ to make up for your inconvenience."

Unknown System
They already have this sort of technology. Even if you don't want to use their designs it would probably only take a turn to adapt their research to your needs. Of course they're going to expect some fairly extensive AI/mind interface research in return.

(Thelonius what do you think of this arrangement? I haven't actually statted them up yet.)

To the Syambic Alliance

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Gliese 440
After some deciphering tr language is finally translated and talks begin. The other ship identifies itself as a Sul Kla scout ship. It is currently assigned to explore this sector, and politely inquires as to what you are here for.

To the Knights of Berill

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LHS 288
Vmen informs you that the Sul Kla don't really have a home planet. They are an organization of aliens that simply prefer to live in space, either in their ships or in more permanent stations, with only the occasional ground colony. They're currently exploring this area in search of some species with sufficient facilities for them to resupply, or barring that a resource rich area they can build a shipyard themselves.

To the Commonwealth

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You have some samples, but your scientists are not sure how useful that would actually be. Jur is obviously a master of bioengineering. They postulate that a species which utilized organic technology to such an extent would likely not have any qualms about modifying their own DNA on a regular basis. So whether the samples you gathered then would actually identify him now is an open question. And whether the virus itself would even have similar DNA to Jur, even if he was the culprit, even more so. Just from the observations on Lalande III it was obvious that he was an expert at creating bioweapons. It would be more likely for such a bioweapons expert to use the target's DNA and customize the viruses they were already host to rather than use his own DNA with its potential incompatibilities.

[TsukikoJ]

ArcaneStomper

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OOC: Since I did come in so late, do we know who the Sul Kla are? If so, could you give me a brief summary? My exploration ship won't know we've joined EVRAZ yet, so I guess I'll take that into account for RP.

IC: "We are scouting the system to get a general idea of its properties. Whether it's inhabited, habitable, the properties of the planets themselves. We come from the Syambic Alliance and are a friendly and peaceful coalition of races looking for opportunities in the unknown regions of space. May I ask what business the Sul Kla have in the system? Perhaps we could cooperate our efforts for mutual benefit even."

[Murska]

To Virus Investigation:

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Read the lowest spoiler addressed to me in ArcaneStomper's post.

EDIT:

To ArcaneStomper:

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Well then I'll explore the gate building thingy, I guess. I just want to find a way in so I can actually begin exploring.

To ATV:

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Would you agree to paying part of the sum with Econ?

[distant quasar]

ArcaneStomper

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Delta Pavonis
"This warning is rather disturbing... we are afraid we do not understand what was meant, other than that some terrible force had awakened in the cosmos, which we are to be aware of. We are eager to inform our home system of all that has occured here. We thank you for refueling our fuel, and for the extra payment as well.
Unless you have objections, we will likely be returning to colonize this system later."

OOC: I'll be jumping back to Ez Aquarii regardless of the answer.

Unknown system:
Sounds good. I'll give them what I have already, and if they want my to help them research more I will.

ATV SAR 3422/AV

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What sorts of research related technology do you have available for us to buy?

[KalShurak]

The Glorious Kingdom of Procyon

On Credits and Guns Or Why We Need to Eliminate All Our Military to be Safe
The author has made a superficially compelling argument but at the same time shows a disturbing lack of historical knowledge. Throughout history numerous nations have fallen into the same trap. Mercenaries are a great way to increase ones strength quickly for a single campaign but they are dreadfully inadequate and expensive for longer term deployment. The mercenary company has to make a profit even during low risk assignments like patrol duty and therefore they are more expensive in the long run then regular military. History is littered with the remains of empires trying to rely on mercenaries for their security.
There is also the question of timing. Only the aggressor is free to choose the time for conflict thus enabling him to hire mercenaries in preparation. The defender has no such luxury, forcing him to either maintain a constant mercenary contract at high costs or being overwhelmed in the first attack. And even if he somehow manages to survive the initial attack, he has to hope that his mercenaries arrive in time to save him from successive waves.
My conclusion is, that mercenaries do provide a useful tool to increase ones military power on short notice but that they are unsuited to provide ones only mean of defence.(Excerpt from an analysis for the High Seat, author unknown)

To Jelthes [16]:

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We will purchase the rift communicators for ++++ t.econ worth of shipyard time.

To Syambic Alliance [16]:

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Are you interested in the deal we offered earlier?

To Commonwealth, Trantis Coalition, Iter [16]:

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We should coordinate our further activities regarding the Kedr disaster.

To ArcaneStomper:

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OK, exploration ship resupplied with + t.econ and one rift communicator.
Afterwards the ship jumps back to GJ 1061 and returns to the innermost planet. After arrival it checks the impact crater.
(OK, just to make sure I got this right: despite landing the drone, the moles still keep their distance from the crater?)

The atmosphere within the crater is analyzed and compared to the atmosphere in other regions of the planet.

An engineering and biology team prepares a laboratory container in co orbit of the ship. All tests will be done using waldos and the container is rigged to explode on command. This is done to allow safe test of plant samples from the planet, without exposing the ship or its crew to any more risks then necessary.

Meanwhile the GKPV Simons will undertake a superficial geological scan of the planet, especially looking for large subterranean structures and mineral deposits.

[Imperial Psycho]

Ascension Coalition

To Arcanestomper

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How much is it for a Warp lane again? I checked the first post of the OOC, but there is nothing on it.

Lets go ahead and start with that signal from the intelligent source in the asteroid belt. Try and pinpoint the source, and move towards it, sending a hailing frequency.

[Forum Explorer]

Light Shipyards

On Credits and Guns
This theory is good on paper but like most social theories it breaks down in reality in many ways. One if everyone switched to this system there wouldn't be enough mercenaries to go around. Two without any of your own defenses the mercs could just walk in and take over for a much greater profit. Three the cheapest solution would be to form a defense force loyal to you and in times of personal peace they can be hired as mercs though this has its own weaknesses. Four is the time it would take to hire mercs. Such time could be critical in warfare.


To ArcaneStomper

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We'll scan the ship for signs of life while we decode the message. We will also attempt to hail the ship for a response.

[Murska]

Kedr Disaster Investigation Group:

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We'll use our + Mil to help with the quarantine. Sadly, we're unlikely to have much else to spare - list what you're doing and we'll perhaps add a point or two into the projects.

[KalShurak]

To Kedr Disaster Investigation Group[16]:

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TGKOP will provide –mil to uphold the quarantine and some medical teams and equipment to aid in treating any infected or establishing a base camp on the planet (- or + t.econ).

[Copper8642]

Knights of Berill

To ArcaneStomper:

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We offer our assistance, asking if they would like to head back to the home planet of the Knights for resupply, or if they have a goal in this system that they would first like to complete. Unrelated, Dol also tries to get an idea of the scope of the Sul Kla organization.

[ArcaneStomper]

ATV SAR 3422/AV to Commonwealth

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I will accept up to ++ econ instead of culture.

To Trantis Coalition

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Delta Pavonis
Jur replies, "I have no objection. If you wish to find me I will likely remain in this system for a few years while my colleague recuperates."

Unknown System
The Vian Rou are going to want some more research on the subject. Your upload technology is not as interesting to them as the potential that technology holds for further advancements in the interfacing of organic minds with AIs.

ATV SAR 3422/AV to the Trantis Coalition

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It will depend on what you are willing to pay and how much advancement you wish to achieve.

To Ascension Coalition/Thelonius

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I think its +++ of either t. or p. econ for a warp stabilizer device. You'll have to ask Thelonius to be sure of the exact figure.

[Gunther]

The Mechanoids

ArcaneStomper

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Lalande 27173

The Mechanoid vessel will attempt to adjust its engines so as to attempt to draw closer to the object that is causing the distortion. A detachment of boarding combat frames will be activated, and provided the starship is able to draw close enough they will be sent over to try and board the disruption-causing device. If the device is large enough to be boarded, they will attempt to enter via hacking and secure it from the inside. If it is not large enough to be effectively boarded, they will simply attempt to hack it and override its command protocols anyways, uploading an consciousness into the machine to take control of it.

[nolispe]

Iter

To the Sulla En Coi

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Intresting. What would this compensation be? Would we, for instance, be able to acquire some of your cultural broadcasting systems?

[Thelonius]

Suula En'Coi to Iter

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''We don’t have cultural broadcasting systems. We project our thoughts using telepathy, much as you do. If you’d like us to promote your good name, we can certainly do it. Our diplomats may also assist you in negotiations or work to present a good image to various alien species.''

[Thelonius]

Turn 16 Begins...

Hive Mind Wiped Out!

An unidentified fleet of ships have entered the YZ Ceti (EVRAZ), blinding the sensors of the system defence force and assaulting Allu – the prison of the Hive Mind.

The defenders of the Allu – a mix of Tian Technocracy and Xens ships have tried fighting the attackers, but were outnumbered and outmatched. The Xens have been completely annihilated in their ill-conceived attack against the invaders, while Tian Technocracy managed to preserve against relentless assault. Before EVRAZ had a chance to mobilize and come to the aid of the besieged prison planetoid, Hive Mind was utterly eradicated from existence by orbital bombardment.

The attackers have escaped the system without suffering any significant losses. The incident threatens good relations between EVRAZ and Cygni Accords.

The attackers are strongly suspected to be a militant Humanist group. The number of ships was between [++-] and [+++++], clearly too many for the organization, but many believe the group was heavy backing by the Commonwealth. The Cygni Accords have already expelled Commonwealth diplomats and issued strong condemnation of the attack.

The destruction of the Hive Mind is met with ambivalent feelings – they were one of the Known Space most hated threats, yet the promise of the cure offered by the Star Gods have sparked hope in some, that they could be reformed and those assimilated by them released.

The suspected Commonwealth support of the suspected Humanist attack is another important issue. Some are half-expecting hostilities between the Cygni Accords and Commonwealth to erupt by the end of the year. The raw demonstration of power and will to remove potential threats to the Known Space has sent a powerful signal to many nations. Commonwealth isn’t to be messed around with.

[Commonwealth may increase Off. Culture depending on how things develop this turn.]

Star Gods: Condemnation of the Attack

The Star Gods have issued a statement condemning the Humanists and Commonwealth, as the culprits in the destruction of the Hive Mind, as well as Tian Technocracy for not allowing them to administer the cure in time.
The tensions between the Way of Star Gods were previously mostly on the Humanists part, but now it seems to be changing as both sides begin to develop feelings of hatred for each other.

GKOP Espionage Attack

GKOP was hit by a powerful espionage attack that paralysed most communications in the system and reportedly erased contacts of their security networks.

Observing this development, Commonwealth Senate authorized purchase of two AIs, a move some people in the GKOP hope they government takes as well.

CAP Joins Commonwealth & Gets Religious

CAP has declared their intention to join the Commonwealth, the Federation of the Human Worlds.

At the same time the Cult - Way of Stars have begun to grow in popularity among people of CAP.

Sthuthid Federation Recovery

After the prolonged and painful civil disorder, the Sthuthid Federation is rushing to catch up on the lost time. The damage of the time of troubles is fixed, old contacts are renewed and everywhere are signs of new beginnings.

Holy Garden of Rhea: Cardeen

Mother Rhea has begun terraforming process in the rocky area of Cardeen, the spice producing world of the Sthuthid Federation.
''I will not disrupt the precious ecosystem of the planet, transforming only the most desolate part of the world into the Holy Garden, for Cardeen is a holy world of Life.''

From across the Known Space hundreds of thousands of Rhea’s Children are making a pilgrimage or declaring their intention to settle permanently on the Cardeen.

Mother Rhea & Anti-Spice Groups

The Commonwealth anti-Spice groups have already decried Mother Rhea’s children as a malicious cult, using the toxic drug – Spice to brainwash innocent people. ''Well, if luck would have it, the next attack by ''unidentified ships'' will glass this entire planet'' commented a representative of the anti-Spice groups, who opted to remain anonymous.

Mother Rhea responded with a threat of her own: ''You rely on technology so much, protected from the harshness of nature, that you’ve grown weaker than most humble sprouts of life. Desecrate my holy world and I will crack you foul, steel carapace open so your weak flesh would be prey to unforgiving jaws of life.''

Spice Bad Rep, Hurts GKOP Image

The awareness campaign about the evils of Spice has led many to question the wisdom of GKOP in promoting the spice-using Way of Stars. Some even suspect more sinister forces and motives at play.

[I may decrease GKOP's Off. Culture based on the events of the turn]

Virus Contained!

The nations of the Known Space have come together to quarantine the threat of the deadly virus. They have succeeded. It appears the threat is completely eradicated and the blockade of Kedr Colonies is sufficient to stand up to criminals and planet looters.

There is a talk among the high officials of the nations involved to create use the experience from this operation to establish protocols and communications channels to combat next outbreak.

More Victims at Kedr Colonies

The Kedr Colony has remained under public scrutiny with many respected nations sending supplies and assistance.

During a salvage operation by Trantis Coalition, a sealed cave system was uncovered. The bodies of Kedr Colonists were recovered with medical experts confirming they have perished just recently. Apparently a small minority with natural immunity to the plague have sought shelter in the caverns, against some more physical threat. Unfortunately they had no way to escape from it, once the danger passed and their supplies run out.

This news brings criticism on the major nations that were conducting investigation about the fate of Kedr Colonies. Trantis Coalition gets the worst of it, once it becomes known that they prioritized salvage operations over confirming, whether there were any survivors left.

Some public figures have begun questioning, if the connection to the machines the Trantis Coalition is pursuing has led to degradation of their humanity and sense of empathy, a few even labelling them proto-Hive Mind.

''I assume they are also dissolving the remains of the Kedr Colonists in the Nutrient Vats. That’ll be enough to refuel food tanks for pluggies of Trantis Coalition for a few years.'' pronounced Leo Danath, host of a popular talk show.

Star Gods, Of Prophesies and Blood

The Holy Prophet Madagor, the Hand of Void has announced the manifestation of Iter, to be the Eighth Prophetic Sign, making the day of strange entity’s appearance a holy day for the followers of the Way of Star Gods.

The celebrations were held across the many worlds, where the Way of Star Gods holds sway. The next day, a terrible tragedy was revealed. Madagor, leader of the Star Gods and his closest spiritual advisors were brutally slain inside the Temple of Void. Unfortunately, that espionage attack on the Glorious Kingdom of Procyon has paralyzed the defences, that otherwise might have protected Madagor against assassins. Sayanna Starblaze has temporarily assumed leadership of the Way of Star Gods, until the name of the proper successor can be divined.

The Humanist extremists are suspected to be involved in the assassination.

Age of AIs

The Commonwealth Senate has approved the purchase and installation of two advanced Reki’Che AIs to secure its networks from hostile intrusions. The EVRAZ is rumoured to be in the process of negotiating a similar purchase.
The WNNC have finished installation of Kethrek, a Planetary Administrator AI in Ross 248, Republic of Ross. William Banks has sent a generous offer to the Commonwealth Senate:

''My AI, Kethrek, is barely utilizing its powerful processing power, looking after WNNC finances. So I thought I’d lend a hand to the Commownealth, a nation that has done so much for me and that I’ve grown to love. If you let Kethrek to run the drudgery of more complicated tasks and optimize the workings of the Commonwealth economy and finances, more than [+++++ +] p. Economy can be gained in revenues, that are simply lost right now. This would mean better living standards, more laboratories and stronger military.''

This act of charity made William Banks quite popular among the Commownealth and some question, if the media magnate would in fact run for the post of President. For now he jokingly answers: ''I wouldn't want to get my good friend Korvan Varulf out of job. Our family barbecues would get awkward.''

The Senate is preparing to make a vote, to give Kethrek access to running Commonwealth economy, the proposal is enjoying a wide support from all, but semi-reluctant Humanist faction.

EVRAZ Civic Trouble

In EVRAZ the workers took to the streets and narrow corridors of the space habs in protest over EVRAZ’s new direction. After the closure of six hundred production centres, made obscolete by the Stellar Forge Reki’Che technology new retraining programs for jobs in entertainment industry we instituted. However, the majority of workers refused to follow them:

''Send me to mine minerals in the depths of hell and I’ll do it. But I won’t be a dancing monkey for Raki’Cho’s* amusement.'' commented one of the movement leaders.

*offensive term for Reki’Che in EVRAZ

So far efforts to resolve the protests by offering higher pay and benefits, has only served to incense the protesters.

Commonwealth & GKOP: We Want Our Free Money!

The GKOP and Commonwealth are one of the most powerful and wealthy nations in the Known Space, yet it hardly be seen by the quality of living of their citizens. As GKOP and Commonwealth profit from the AVE SAR 3422/AV technology, the global market downturn and industries made obsolete by it are increasing unemployment. At the same time people are wondering – when are they expected to see some of that wealth to fall on their tables? New laboratories, warships and grandiose construction projects are good, but certainly taking care of the population is important as well?

There is a growing pressure on the democratic governments of Commonwealth and GKOP to increase social security net, start programs to improve livelihoods and lifestyles and let some of the cash to trickle down to the little man.

[OOC - I may decrease your Morale, if you don't address this]

Terran Federation + Ascension Coalition = Terran Coalition

Terran Federation has announced, that Ascension Coalition will join it, forming a new nation of Terran Coalition. The functionaries and diplomats of both nations have began work to draft legislature and new political structure to ensure smooth transition into union.

DX Cancri (USI) - Warp is Stable, Global Poltics are Not

The Warp Lane from DX Cancri has fully stabilized. The last remnant of the K’Krex and USI now has full contact with the rest of the Known Space. They have issued statement, stating the Hive Mind deserved, what they got, but if any group of military ships enter DX Cancri, they’ll be met with deadly force.

Kej Preservation Society

Kej Preservation Society is offering a service: upgrading WSD devices, so they’ll generate more stable Warp Lanes. The cost is [++] t. Economy per system. The benefits of the upgrade would reduce the wear from the Warp Travel, increasing the economy of the nation.

======Communications======

Aurelian Colonies to ATV SAR 3422/AV

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''We’d be interested to purchase something to improve the living conditions of our population. We can offer up to [+] p. Culture and [++] p. Economy.''

CAP to ATV SAR 3422/AV

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''We’d be interested to buy an AI to protect our state secrets like Commonwealth did. We just can’t handle that sort of stuff well, as we got infiltrated at least on three occasions. We’ll provide [+++] p. Economy.''

[OOC – I assume the price remains the same]

EVRAZ to ATV SAR 3422/AV (Syambic can Read)

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''We'd like to get an AI to run our Economy and Espionage operations.

(They'd like an AI of the same power as WNNC, but they'll pay a maximum of + Culture and the rest in Economy)

William Banks to Korvan Warulf

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''Perhaps we can arrange a private meeting. I don’t think we had a proper talk in ages''

Admiral Riexal to GKOP

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''Have you got any results to show me?''

Suula En’Coi to Unknown (ArcaneStomper) [PM]

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The Counterweight arrives to the Delta Pavonis and sends a hail to Jur

''We are aware of who you are. The Seltek Moon-Ship has revealed a file on you to the Known Space. We’d be interested in making a deal. We are interested in evolving ourselves, ascending to a higher form of existence. Your and your friend’s psionic ability may aid us in our quest. We’d like to study both of you.

We can provide you aid against those, who’d seek to harm you, nutrients to sustain you. And we are also aware of another sentient plant life-form, if you have interest in making a contact with it.''

[Suula En’Coi have week telepathic defences, their psionic-ability is mostly telekinetic. So Jur can easily read them. They are honest in the request, believing their unique physiology will make them unattractive food source and that Jur would keep his word once deal is made, as was stated in file. They are uneasy about leading them to their colony in Oph, but believe they can mount sufficient defence to defend against treachery.]

======Global Markets======

The Market for Psi-Protection was formed by joint efforts of Sumus and GKOP. The cheap and efficient devices are now sold to the population of the Known Space.

Meanwhile GDF has officially established themselves as mercenaries for hire, attracting small groups of mercenaries and ex-military, who see an opportunity to earn money, while visiting the exotic locales and meeting interesting aliens.

EVRAZ and WNNC have combined their forces to establish and take control over a new market – Reki’Che Goods. The highly advanced devices of the Reki’Che are highly sought all across the Known Space and their major distributor is E&W Conglomerate. The darker side of the new development, is that a lot of factories are being put out of business, leading to the downturn in the more traditional manufacturing and labour pool markets. The unemployment is on the rise, however the GLU promoted labour laws, growing entertainment and tourism sectors and massive benefits of the Reki’Che goods are more then enough to compensate.

[Murska]

Warp Stabilization Upgrades

The Commonwealth offers to perform the same upgrades for +- t. Econ. (Assuming it's profitable.)

George Varulf to William Banks:

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Agreed. Let's meet up in an unofficial capacity at the old Varulf estates.

[razovor]

ISREC to Arcanestomper

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Unknown System:

We will dock with one of the ends of the cylindrical space station.

ISREC to Arcanestomper and Commonwealth

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Wolf 359

Right. I'll leave this second habitat for the commonwealth. Doesn't look like it will take much more work for them to get it running, if they need some more morale.

My ship will go await the arrival of Jelthes representative in the system.

Shadow Supremacy to Iter [20]

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"Impressive work. How long do you think it will take you to seize full control?"

[Thelonius]

Global Markets - Light Shipyards Crisis

Commonwealth has ruthlessly moved in on the Civilian Shipbuilding Market, strangling the Light Shipyards presence on the market, wherever it could be found. At the same time, sensing weakness the EVRAZ joined in on the assault further slashing the prices of their ships.

This economic aggression has led to sharp downturn in the Light Shipyards GDP and closure of ninety construction slipways. The unemployment is all times high and population blames Commonwealth for taking away their jobs.

Both Sumus and Anarchists have vocally protested the ruthless capitalism. The Sumus are urging an economic summit, where the three nations can cooperate to achieve mutual economic gains. Anarchists are focusing on the criticism of Commonwealth, accusing it of imperialism, warmongering and war crimes. Both nations have expressed desire to assist in the economic recovery of the Light Shipyards.

[Lady Serpentine]

House Ghalamander:

To Thelonius and ArcaneStomper:

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Moving +++- Mil. back to EV Lacertae, and from there to Groombridge 1618, to investigate the wreckage found there on our last expedition.

To Thelonius (EoT Level):

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Work on the secret project with the Commonwealth continues, with all but ++ of House Ghalamander's research being assigned to it. That ++ goes to continued research on military applications of the NanoFab

Open:

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House Ghalamander has wisely refused to offer their opinion on the destruction of the Hive Mind, their only official comment so far coming from Khaelm tel Korthinos, commander of the fleet recently sent to the Cygni Accords in conjunction with the Commonwealth and the Knights of Berrill, who said "I'm afraid that that's not a subject we're discussing with anyone else, as no matter our feelings, we don't want either side getting offended, since they could both almost certainly wipe us out."

However, the return of House Ghalamander's fleet to Talbresh space shortly after this statement was issued may be a sign that, while they are unwilling to offer an overt condemnation of the Commonwealth's actions, they do not approve of the destruction of the cybernetic race.

Anyone with +++++ ((?)) Off. Esp. who happens to care:

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House Ghalamander's internal communications indicate only a moderate disapproval of the destruction of the Hive Mind, but a strong dislike for the Commonwealth supporting the Humanists - which is only logical, as House Ghalamander is an alien species - and they plan to limit future relations with the Commonwealth, though an unidentified joint project (referred to only as the Makthresh Bandael project; possibly, given the use of an archaic, pre-warp disruption Talbresh dialect, it is archaeological in nature) will continue as before.

[Copper8642]

Knights of Berill

To GKOP (16 Def Esp):

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I believe I stated we would try and reach a trade agreement in the near future at a point in the recent past. Here we are to come to that agreement.

To Commonwealth (28 Def Esp):

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The arrangements that were holding me up from coming to any sort of deals with you are over, and now we are willing to talk again about coming to some sort of agreement. Please, meet with our diplomat Mas Scint if you are willing to discuss terms of an economic or military pact.

Trantis Coalition (3 Def Esp):

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My home system of Wolf 1061 is neighboring yours by warp lane, and I wish to keep on good terms with nearby nations. Unfortunately, we cannot open communications with the Mechanoids, which makes want all the more to make sure we have nothing to worry about from you.

Open:
A recent statement made by Khaelm tel Korthinos of House Ghalamander has implied there was a force of Knights working under him and with the Commonwealth at the Cygni Accords. We believe he misspoke, the Knights have sent no such force. (OOC: Or did I send a fleet somewhere and then totally forget about it? Sounds like something I'd do if I posted at like, 3 A.M.)

[Lady Serpentine]

Open:

(Yaera os Moriket, Khaelm tel Korinthos's second-in-command, speaking for her commander as he is currently engaged in speaking with the other leaders of House Ghalamander, and will not be available for some time:)

"We would like to apologize to the Knights of Berrill for the confusion that arose; we are uncertain as to where the news service received the information that there were Knights there, either under the command of House Ghalamander or on their own. To help ease any tensions their error may have caused, we would like to offer [+- p. Mil.] of ships, along with any training of pilots or alterations to the vessels that may be necessary for them to be useful to you."

[Thelonius]

Premonitions of War

As House Ghalamander innocuously let it slip, that the Knights of Berril were taking part in the military movements against Cygni Accords, during the Sthuthid Federation crisis, the rumors of the upcoming war between Commonwealth and Cygni Accords grow stronger. There are videocasts circulating the nets of parades and preparations for war by the large ground military of the Knights. Their enemy hasn’t been officially named yet.

While cooperation with an alien species may seem strange for Humanists, the Commonwealth have longed showed willingness for short-term cooperation with alien races in order to achieve its objectives.

To Commonwealth/ArcaneStomper (Important!)

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Hmm... Actually the way AIs & Networks are set up I’m not certain you should get full off. Espionage bonus, and more Def. Espionage I’m thinking 14 to off. Espionage for Commonwealth and extra 5 Def.

[Murska]

The Commonwealth

Actually, wasn't it Light Shipyards who began a strong push on both shipbuilding markets just a bit ago, pushing out our companies? Now that we are competing back, we're being denounced?

We're willing to negotiate, of course, but creating a cartel system to avoid competition over time creates unhealthy markets, raises the entry costs in business, drives the wealth gap ever larger and weakens the quality of the goods offered to the consumers.

To House Ghalamander:

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We are saddened that you disapprove of our actions, as we believe we have been fair in our mutual deals so far. We are a tempering influence on all the human radical groups borne of the violent conflicts and brutal attacks our species has been subjected to multiple times lately. The only targets we have attacked are those who are a clear and present threat to the peace and stability of the Warp Network, and we have cooperated and negotiated with most everyone else.

To Knights of Berill:

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We will send an ambassador.

To GMs:

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I don't really mind either way, so long as I can use the stat to scour my network for infiltrations and remove them. Which has started the instant they were installed, so if I can get mid-turn updates on that it'd be great. If it takes actual stat usage instead of just gaining more Def Esp, then I'll use +++++ Off Esp and all Def Esp on it.

Exploration:
Yeah, put the habitat into shape, while trying to find a way into the bunker to shut off the gravitation anomalies to place a WSD in the system.

[Thelonius]

To Commonwealth/ArcaneStomper

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Okay, again, if I understood you correctly you wanted a buffer network, that AIs would occupy and they would serve as a gateway, while being unable to access Commonwealth's systems.

If you are doing some ''scouring'' of your systems using AIs, that means you give them access to it.

[Lady Serpentine]

House Ghalamander

To Commonwealth:

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You have been quite fair in your dealings with us, yes. Much of the disapproval is due to our... rather unique... history; while the destruction of the Hive Mind, as such, is not a major issue, we find it troublesome that you were willing to destroy a species that was contained on a prison world, especially since the attack seems to have involved the Humanists you are seeking to temper - ones that, so far as can be told, view us with, at the least, suspicion, simply because of what we are. The Talbresh have come quite close to extinction once already, and none of us are happy with the fact that a radical group that has proven itself willing to wipe out a contained former threat due to a slight risk received your support in doing so.

[Copper8642]

Knights of Berill

We maintain that no Berillians were active with that fleet, but, given we weren't there, we have little evidence to prove so. That said, we feel anybody who cares will be able to find that there were no Knights involved.

[distant quasar]

Trantis Coalition

ATV SAR 3422/AV

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We will decide how much we are willing to pay depending on the projected benefits you can give us. We would prefer to give no more than [+++] perm econ, but we can arrange tos pend more and perhaps trade other things as well depending on what you can do to increase our technological and research capacities.

Tian Technocracy

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Some time ago we gave you technology to build an advanced AI. We would be interested in buying the results of your work, if any.

Jelthes + GMs

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What sorts of AIs do you have available for sale?

Knights of Berill

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You have nothing to fear from us.
In fact, we would be interested in opening up trade agreements with you, once the issues concerning the Hive Mind have been sorted out to show you had no involvement. You understand we are still to occupied investigating the Kedr incident to help you prove your innocence.

Virus Committee

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We understand that Jur has not been proven guilty for the incident at the Kedr colonies, so we will keep searching for the culprit. However, we have sufficient cause to believe he ought to be stopped.

Now, we have some good and bad news.
Our exploration ship just arrived back from Delta Pavonis. They had been dispatched before the information about Jur was known, and got back before we had FTL communications. The good news is that we know that Jur and another of his kind will be in Delta Pavonis for a time [this turn, maybe another].
The bad news is that our exploration group helped free Jur's companion from an old, apparently automated group of ships that had captured him. While old and hardly effective against us, this grouup of automated ships was more than a match for Jur (hence him needing our help). This is because Jur and his kind appear to derive most of their abilities from psionics. While salvaging, we found an emmittor array that suppresses psionics, to an unknown degree as of yet.
There's more bad news too though. Jur's companion sent us a warning concering a group called the others, whom he said were awakened and coming to destroy. The force of his warning knocked the crew unconcsious, and when they came to Jur told them he had taken most of the force, as his companion had underestimated the stregnth of our minds in his urgency of delivering the warning.
We are uncertain if this is to be believed or not. Iter informs us that there is a psionic prescence in the minds of our crewmen, that had begun to spread among us. We are attempting to contain the threat with use of the emmittors until Iter can purge it from their minds.

However, we feel that we should act now, while we have the element of surprise. We are not the only ones who have access to technology designed to shield against psionics. With the use of psionic shielding and the emmittors, a swift and powerful attack ought to be enough to take down Jur and his counterpart in Delta Pavonis We must act swiftly, however. We need all the help we can get.

P.S. Delta Pavonis is not yet on the Warp Lanes. We'll have to send Exploration Vessels, or can any of your flagships jump on their own?

GMs- Can I use another group of people to crew the exploration vessel to send it back to Delta Pavonis?

[Murska]

To House Ghalamander:

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Not that we admit to being involved, but the Cygni Accords had only one possible reason for keeping the Hive Mind imprisoned without letting anyone attempt to administer the cure. They were aiming to use the mindless drones as shock troops.

To GMs:

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Well, they have access, just not control. I'm pretty sure I can do the deleting stuff part myself if the AIs find the infiltration.

[razovor]

Shadow Supremacy to Jelthes [25]

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"Selling weapons capable of destroying planets to Eldritch abominations, and then accepting brainwashing people as payment? That is an impressive degree of villainy there. I don't need to say how bad it would be for you if records of your communications were released to the public."

"I want your espionage, not all of it mind. I'll take +-/-. Then I will grant you access to my encryption software. Currently no-one in the sector can bypass it. It should let you conduct any future deals without being observed."

[KalShurak]

The Glorious Kingdom of Procyon

To Commonwealth, Trantis Coalition, Light Shipyards, Ascension Coalition and Terran Coalition [PM Level]

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“As promised we did make further research into the questions regarding the motives, goals, values and mutual relationships of the Seltek and the Reki’Che. Below is the transcript of the answer we received from the Reki’Che diplomatic drone. The answer to the question which species would make the better patron hasn't gotten easier to find.”
We and the Seltek are currently at war. We will not lie the Reki'Che Imperium was the instigator of the war. They desired the systems that the Seltek had claimed for their own, and believed that the Seltek were too peaceful to stop them from claiming them by force. They Reki'Che were incorrect and the war was fought to a stalemate. The two powers agreed to a cease fire to decide on their next course of action, but the conflict was never again brought to either open warfare. Peace was also never declared. But that was 2,384 of your years ago. The Reki'Che Imperium of that time was an aggressive expansionist entity, since then my creators have learned to be more relaxed in their attitudes towards other races. They prefer to give other races the chance to grow while they rest and maintain their empire.

Contact with the Seltek is limited as the war still continues to this day. However limited observations have resulted in some data. There motivations are arcane and complex. The full workings of their plan are almost never made manifest even to my masters the Reki'Che and certainly not to a species of your advancement. They seem to prefer observation to outright intervention, but are not above doing so if the situation calls for it. They appear to value their scientific experiments above all else, and willingly stand by to watch lesser species die in order to collect additional data on their behaviors. However do not let this mislead you into believe that they are cruel. If the Seltek hear a call for help directed specifically at them they will always answer even to a species that they are not obligated by the galactic accords to help. And second if a species ever faces extinction the eltek will always intervene to save it and move the survivors to a safer location. It is unknown if they do this from pure benevolence are the desire not to lose potential sources of data.

My creators are more active in their involvement with others. As you have no doubt noticed they regularly send traders outside their own empire to bring back unique cultural artifacts and disseminate technology to less advanced races in an effort to aid them. However they are also less inclined to interact with those who do not wish their involvement. As such they maintain a certain amount of distance and prefer to let AIs such as myself handle all contact with outsider races. They are also disinclined to outright help any race. They believe in survival of the fittest and that the Seltek's coddling of species that have already proven themselves weak leads to a less healthy galactic society in the long run. As such a species that faces extinction can expect no aid from the Reki'Che, and only those who can afford it are allowed to purchase their most advanced technologies. My creators have also distanced themselves from their warlike past and are more likely to pursue cultural activities and encourage the same in other than the Seltek's pure devotion to science and technology.

To Knights of Berill [16]:

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Excellent. We do hope to sign some kind of trade treaty, preferable a free trade zone between our nations. We can also offer to sell you industrial systems, especially the already mentioned Hydian Factory (+++++ + t.econ to get +- p.econ). We are aware that you can not compensate us in one go, but if you pay it to us over two turns, the factorie will be ready at the end of the second turn.
If we agree on some kind of military alliance, we can also talk about upgrading your fleet, but not over this rather open channel (PM me if interested).

To Way of Stars [16]:

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We mourn the loss of Holy Prophet Madagor, the Hand of Void. We all got poorer with his passing.
Apparently the more violent members have taken over the Humanists, they are becoming even more short sigted and prone to violence then ever. But repaiing in kind would just prove them right. We have to be show that we are better then this. A stance of non violence might be the best course of action for this, following the examples of Martin Luther King jr. and Mahatma Gandhi.

But in this dire times, there still spots of light. Our scientists finally managed to make us independent of Spice imports. Now is the time to further explore human telepathy. If we manage to find a way to awake and sustain telepathic abilities in humans without the need for spice, we will achieve even greater highs then now and rob our opponents of their most valuable propaganda tool.

We are also considering purchasing one of ATV SAR 3422/AV def. esp AIs and would like to know wether or not you are willing to cover parts of the costs to prevent further tragedies like the assasination of Holy Prophet Madagor, the Hand of Void.

To Solaris Inc. [PM level]:

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Meeting between King Albert II, Duke Weiss, Wolfgang Katz, Adelbert von Wijk, His Grace Samuel Lest and the heads of both FIS and CIS (military and civilian intelligence):
Albert: “Gentlemen, I summoned you for two reasons. First, the espionage attack. Despite our best efforts, our intelligence services prove to be still inadequate. However the AI systems ATV SAR 3422/AV offers might help us in answering this problem. What I hope to hear are your thoughts to this and how we finance the eventual purchase.” He turns directly towards Duke Weiss: “Duke, I do hope that your intelligence services join ours in another attempt to eradicate this threat. While you weren’t directly affected this time, a successful attack could lead to the collaps of our shared infrastructure and the dead of millions.”
Again he turns to the entire table but still speaks mostly towards Duke Weiss, Wolfgang Katz and his Grace Samuel Lest:”The second issue concers the possibilitie to purchase another AI to improve both of our economic efficiency. Again, the questions are what do you think and how do we afford this purchase if we decide to go for it.”

To Anarchists [16]:

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Would you be interested in improving you industrie, both mining and manufacturing with a Hydian Factory and/ or micro fusion reactors?
The Factory would cost you +++++ + t.econ and generate +- p.econ. The Costs for the micro fusion reactors would depend on what you hope to accomplish with them.

To USI [PM]:

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A courier arrives in DX Cancri and delivers a sealed package to Admiral Riexal. Inside is a message on Microfilm:
“Admiral, to my great shame we were unable to identify those responsible for the murder of your people. All we found was a seemingly unlimited supply of spy drones and some strange warp readings.
We did develop a theory that the Dreame Mercenaries were somehow involved in this attack. The fact that their ships were completely unfazed by the intelligence attack immediately before the assault and easily destroyed the assailants is puzzling. I see two possibilities, first the Dreamel were paid to perform this. Second, the true assailants made it look this way by purposefully sparing the Dreamel from their intelligence attack and sacrificing their ships.
Both are only theories and we lack any hard prove for them, so whatever you decide to do, please keep this in mind.”

Signed,
His Highness Lord General Simon, Heir Apparent to the throne of Procyon and Lord General over the Royal Fleet”

To GMs:

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1. What happened to the /+ research the Star Gods had last turn?
2. Not complaining, it actually serves me quite well as it is right now, but why isn’t GJ 1061 connected? When I placed the WSD, the required time was given with 1 to 2 turns.