Freelancer: Terminus (Freelancer/MassEffect)

[X] Hylia Base
[X] Alien Discussions
-[X] Talk with the aliens more about local politics in the Terminus systems, lay groundwork for appearing attractive as an ally and trading partner and bulwark against more hostile powers and non-state actors.
-[X] Open to beginning trade at a low level; not groundbreaking unique technologies yet, but civilian level goods, consumables, and raw materials would be a good starting point.
-[X] Entertainment wise, half military/half cultural. Showcase a suitable performance by a fighter squadron, and highlight a meal that is a tasting menu of a myriad of cultures (or multiple meals featuring different cultures if the talks are scheduled across multiple days).
 
I'd say we hold off on consumables and commercial goods. Trade only raw materials and semi-raw materials. No need to give them tech yet.
That's barely tech worth talking about in those goods and means we're not going to be getting anything back in return. It's not really going to raise trust just doing that much, either.
 
[X] Hylia Base

[X] Alien Discussions
-[X] Talk with the aliens more about local politics in the Terminus systems, lay groundwork for appearing attractive as an ally and trading partner and bulwark against more hostile powers and non-state actors.

-[X] Open to beginning trade at a low level; not groundbreaking unique technologies yet, but civilian level goods, consumables, and raw materials would be a good starting point.

-[X] Entertainment wise, half military/half cultural. Showcase a suitable performance by a fighter squadron, and highlight a meal that is a tasting menu of a myriad of cultures (or multiple meals featuring different cultures if the talks are scheduled across multiple days).
 
[X] Hylia Base

[X] Alien Discussions
-[X] Talk with the aliens more about local politics in the Terminus systems, lay groundwork for appearing attractive as an ally and trading partner and bulwark against more hostile powers and non-state actors.

-[X] Open to beginning trade at a low level; not groundbreaking unique technologies yet, but civilian level goods, consumables, and raw materials would be a good starting point.

-[X] Entertainment wise, half military/half cultural. Showcase a suitable performance by a fighter squadron, and highlight a meal that is a tasting menu of a myriad of cultures (or multiple meals featuring different cultures if the talks are scheduled across multiple days).
 
That's barely tech worth talking about in those goods and means we're not going to be getting anything back in return. It's not really going to raise trust just doing that much, either.

I don't think DSX is ready to deal with the sheer alienness and diversity of another species' consumer goods.

And I doubt we'd get much technology out of them.

fasquardon
 
I don't think DSX is ready to deal with the sheer alienness and diversity of another species' consumer goods.

And I doubt we'd get much technology out of them.
That's the point. We want to set it up so we can trade for the proverbial 1 of everything and queue up as many tests as the scientists and engineers care to think of while people acclimate. Just seeing consumer goods isn't going to cause SAN loss.
 
I don't think DSX is ready to deal with the sheer alienness and diversity of another species' consumer goods.

And I doubt we'd get much technology out of them.

fasquardon

Well you wouldn't suddenly trade with all of the known galaxy - just a pretty isolated Asari colony. And luckily for you the Asari are probably the most human-like of any of the races you will meet which g makes such a trade a lot of easier. If you want a friendly, economic focused first contact this is perhaps as good as it gonna get for you.
 
Turn 12: House Party
Turn 12: House Party
Date: 07/816 AS




Talk with Synth Food contacts regarding delay of the shipment of Stuttgart premium beef ✔

Go over provisional seating charge for gala dinner ✔

Talk with Alexandra regarding handling of overtime of intelligence section due to technological risk analysis []

...


You have 6 Action Points that you can spend anyway you wish at 1 point per action. You can also add 1 Focus Point (giving a + 20 Bonus) to a chosen action, representing DSX focusing on that action.
(Survey actions, especially in the Terminus sector will also have a chance of unveiling new Jumphole connections/unlocking new systems)

Sirius Sector:
You may be hundreds of light-years removed from the Sirius sector with the goal of exploring a completely new part of space but that doesn't mean you can ignore what happens in the Sirius sector.

[] Buyout:
Currently your four main allies, BAF, Daumann, Zoner and IMG, provide most of your supplies in exchange for a promise of prefered treatment in regards to whatever is found in the Terminus sector. Not only does this give them a significant influence over your decisions but the "debt" is also increasing with every new shipment you get from them. And while this system has worked well so far the unexpected success of the artifact trade has created the possibility of you partially replacing their support with the capital gained through this trade, meaning your backers would be less influential. If you decide to go that route there are several possible options to choose from.
(Thanks to the success of the artifact option you can currently support up to 4 high cost Actions (and get a number special options) - if you pick this one that reduced back to 2-3. YOu will however remain partners and continue to cooperate with each other )

[] Option 1: Partial
You will strive to keep a balance between your various allies while reducing the overall support they give you.
Cost: Extreme, Result: General support dependency lowered

[] Option 2: IMG
Or you could focus your efforts on replacing a singular ally like for example the IMG.
Cost: Extreme, Result: Independence from IMG supply gained

[] Option 3: Zoner
… or the Zoners
Cost: Extreme, Result: Independence from Zoner supply gained


[] Share the loot:
Initially you planned to keep your operation in the Omicron systems a secret but your recent discoveries make that a highly unlikely prospect which means that it might be time to repay some of your supporters for their contributions. The IMG has provided you with significant knowhow and manpower which has led to some of your advisors suggesting that you transfer some of your claims in the Omicron Kappa system over to them and allow them to start their own operation there. While there is some risk of information about your activities there leaking the IMG is used to operating under a cover of secrecy.
Result: IMG starts operation in Omicron Kappa, part of your debt to them repaid


[] The aliens of Omicron Lambda:
The alien organisms found in the Omicron Lambda system might not be anything special but with Cryer, who is always interested in such stuff, operating a major base only a few jumps away it might still be worth setting up a small harvesting operation.
Result: Small income increase and small reputation boost with Cryer


[] Gateway to Heaven:
You could also use the profits from the artifact trade to start a Jumpgate project of your own. While it is unlikely that you could shoulder the complete financing of such an project on your own, your new fame and the Rheinland eastern expansion should allow you to attract enough other investors to make it possible. Connecting the Omicron Theta system to the rest of Sirius would not only dramatically simplify your logistics and strengthen the economic viable of any other project in the area but would also be a step on the way to connecting the Hypergate to the rest of Sirius. It would however also upset many of the more traditional Corsairs and mean that you would need to intensify your efforts on the front while operating on a very tight schedule.
(Like the Buyout option this would put you back to your previous level of supply)

[] Option 1: Sigma 17
Building a Jumpgate covering the distance between Sigma 17 and Omicron Theta would normally be impossible or at least prohibitively expensive and complicated, but you, or to be precise DSE, may be able to utilize the already existing jumphole to allow you to bridge that extreme distance. This connection is preferred by the more independent minded people of your organization and less likely to cause issues with the Corsairs since it still means that there is a serious distance between Omicron Theta and the actual House regions.
Cost: Extreme: Result: Start constructing a jumpgate to Sigma 17 (5 years =10 ten turns)

[] Option 2: Saarland
The other possibility is to build the jumpgate to Saarland, the system Rheinland is currently building a jumpgate to. Since that option would give the Rheinland military a nearly direct path to Corsair core territory opposition from them would likely be considerable. On the other hand it also means a very quick access to Sirius proper which could have enormous economic and military benefits which could save the DSX if the alien prove hostile and more numerous/powerful than expected, .
Cost: Extreme: Result: Start constructing a jumpgate to Saarland (7 years =14 turns)


[] Expand Northern Route:
Most of your "trade" is transported a southern route to your contacts in Bretonia and Rheinland but it might be time to look into branching out and looking to expand into the northern part of your neighbourhood, especially since the recently build Freeport 17 is a perfect base for such an endeavour. From it you could start selling some of your mined resources to the GMG and Kusari companies like Kishiro and Samura. And while such a move is certain to raise awareness of DSX it could also serve as a misdirection that leads to people think of it as a simply another mining conglomerate like the IMG. However some of supporters in the IMG and Daumann might be less than thrilled to see you cooperate with their competitors.
Cost: Medium, Chance of success: 75%, Result: Northern trade route established


[] Corsair Mining:
Your "ambassador" on Crete has been approached by several groups of Corsairs looking for a way to expand their mining operations. And indeed despite the relative resource richness of the lower Omicrons the mining operations of the Corsairs are primitive compared to the rest of the Houses and mostly limited to their home system. Providing assistance in this matter could help to strengthen the more "progressive" parties on Crete and allow you to test some of your, currently still mostly theoretical, ideas of "reforming" the Corsairs. On the other hand it would strengthen the Corsairs industrial power which could become a problem if you ever come into conflict with them.

[] Option 1: DSX
Thanks to your close cooperation with the IMG and your own, ever expanding, mining operations you have amassed a significant amount of knowledge and expertise in this area which should be enough to help the Corsairs establish and optimise their own operations.´, especially if you add in some of your advanced machinery
Cost: High, Result: DSX provides expertise and limited material assistance for Corsair mining operations

[] Option 2: "Rogue" Miners
Davis meanwhile suggest a more radical solution and wants convince the Corsairs to hire the IMG. If successful this would likely jump start the Corsair economy, serve as a perfect testbed for future cooperations and give the IMG a new area to expand into but it also means that the IMG would expect you to guarantee its safety which might be a distraction you can ill afford considering the current events in the Terminus sector.
Chance of success: 75%, Result: IMG starts to cooperate with the Corsairs


Red Hessians:
The Red Hessians powers has declined enormously since you started your operations against them, though to be fair a lot of it is likely due to Rheinland itself, and while the organization might not be fully defeated it is certainly weakened and its influence contained. In all honesty you were ready to call the operation a success and were actually just discussing about how to best extradite your more exposed agents with Alexandra when an high priority message of one of said agents reached Solitude. It seems like he managed to turn one of the strategic advisors of the commander of the Ronneburg, the Red Hessian base in Omega 5, and through her gain access to a number of highly confidential documents, including the coordinates of the main Red Hessian base in Omega 11 as well as a nearly complete list of current fleet deployments. Sadly your agent and his source where forced to flee shortly after the message but if you act quickly enough you could strike a truly devastating blow against the Red Hessians.
(You can pick multiple actions if you want though every single option costs one action)

[] Unholy Alliance
One of the key advantages of the Red Hessians in the Omega regions has always been the ability of the various bases to support each other in emergencies, like for example to shift reinforcements from Omega 11 to Omega 5 in the face of a Corsair attack or the opposite way if the Rheinland police got to bold. You however are in the nearly unique position of having contacts in both the Corsairs and Rheinland and may be able to use those to organize a "coordinated" assault on both bases at the same time. Convincing both parties to trust you in the limited amount of time you information remains accurate could be tricky but if you succeed the Red Hessians stand little chance of defending against a two pronged attack.
Chance of success: 65%, Result: Rheinland and Corsair attack Red Hessian bases in Omega regions

(Optional options)
[] Option 1.1: Assist the Corsairs:

The Corsair still haven't recovered from their loses in Sigma 17 and would likely welcome your support in an attack on Ronneburg.
Result: +15 to roll, assist the Corsairs in the attack on Ronneburg

[] Option 1.2 Assist the Rheinwehr:
Omega 11's hostile environment and isolated position mean that the Rheinwehr is relatively unprepared for operations there and might welcome your assistance.
Result: +10 to roll, assist Rheinwehr in the attack on Freital Base


[] Break the Deadlock:
Convincing both the Corsairs and the Rheinwehr might be too much of a challenge considering the time restraints and it might be thus better to concentrate your efforts on one party. If you for example decide to assist the Corsairs in Omega 5 you could almost certainly push the Red hessians out of the system
Chance of success: 85%, Result: Corsairs and DSX attack Red hessian holdings in Omega 5


[] Base strike:
Or you could cooperate with the Rheinland police and military and organize an attack on the Red Hessian base in Omega 11. Its destruction would seriously disrupt the logistical network of the Red Hessians, giving you the advantage in future fights.
Chance of success: 80%, Result: DSX and Rheinland attack Freital Base in Omega 11


[] Option 2: Omega 41 Offensive
It is often said that the best defence is offence and while you don't one hundred percent agree with that statement you can see the reasoning behind it. Based on Alexandra's information Henry thinks that it may be possible to push the Red Hessians out of the Omega 42 system, an important waystation on your southern route to Rheinland and Bretonia (which also makes a perfect staging ground for further military advances). While such a direct attack would put you on the radar of the Red Hessians their ability to fight back is severely limited.
Cost: High, Chance of success: 80% Result: Attack Red Hessians in Omega 41
(gives +10 to any of the actions above)

[] Option 2.1: Deploy Hood:
This might also be a good opportunity to test your battleship in actual combat
Cost: Medium, Result: +20 to the roll, Hood unavailable for this turn (possibly more depending on how the battle goes)
(Free Action)


[] Omicron Kappa Jumpholes:
A closer survey of the Omicron Kappa system unveiled the existence of two additional viable jumpholes. Satellites and rudimentary defensive system have been placed on each and probes have been send through each for a preliminary report.

Option 1: Omicron Iota
Located north of your current area of operation in area nominally claimed by the Outcasts and near several known Nomad sightings.
Chance of success: 80%, Result: Explore Omicron Iota

Option 2: Omicron Phi
Located on the southern part of the Edge Nebula near or perhaps even in Corsair territory this system is where the tablet found on Omicron Kappa suggest another Dom'Kavash ruin might be found.
Chance of success: 80%, Result: Explore Omicron Iota


[] Disclosure:
While you initially didn't plan for it Orillion might be right that it is better to involve the Houses as early as possible to secure their support and backing. It would likely result in a significant loss of autonomy, at least regarding to the talks, but you are almost certain the the Houses would in turn focus a significant amount of resources to secure (their access to) the eastern region of the Sirius sector.
Result: Brief the House government's on your discoveries


[] Hunt for Element Zero - Sirius Version:
You research into possible eezo deposits in Sirius has so far been relatively unproductive with the best you can find being mentions of trace amounts that may possible be eezo. You have contacted you contacts in the Houses to have them look into the matter but if you want quick results your best is probably to look for the stuff yourself, starting in the territory claimed by you.
Result: Look for eezo deposits - you will almost certainly find enough for initial research but more substantial deposits depend on the roll (but even then a good roll might simply tell you that there is not much to be found - the stuff is rare)


Terminus Sector:
The new frontier, full of alien artifacts to discover and resources to exploit.

[] Another ruin:
While not exactly the most pressing matter you could extend Sinclair's operations to the ruins found on the supermassive planet in Alpha01/Nirn.
Result: Research alien ruins, more artefacts

[] Vega exploitation:
The survey of the Vega system, formerly called Alpha04, has revealed it to be rich in resources making it an ideal candidate for further development.

[] Option 1: C-mining:
Even in space Californium remains a relatively rare resource meaning that it would be worth setting up a mining operation in Vega despite its distant location (since your own industry is as of yet not up to the task of utilizing it themselves to any significant degree).
Cost: Medium, Result: small mining operation set up

[] Option 2: Silicates:
The outermost planet of the Vega system is an ice giant with several deposits of useful and rare silicates as for example used by the Kishiro in the production of their optical chips. Setting up a mining operation would be doable though most of the profit would likely be eaten be the effort of shipping them into Kusari space alongside the currently only sparsely used northern route.
Medium: High, Result: small mining operation set up


[] Directorate for Xenobiology and Xenorelations:
When you started DSX you expected some form of alien contact and thus made sure to hire experts in those fields but the sheer scale of your discoveries have far exceeds what you expected to deal with which leaves you a bit short to actually staff the many projects you need to get done as quickly as possible. Hiring more scientist is therefore only logical and while you at it you might as well combine the whole thing into its own directorate for easier administration and better efficiency.
Cost: High, Result: New directorate, (passive) bonus for dealing with aliens technology etc.

Optional Option:
[] Cryer
Cryer Pharmaceuticals owes you a favour for you help in defending its base in Sigma 17 and you could likely use this to secure the services of some of the best bio-technicians and xenobiologists in Sirius.
Result: Use favour to secure the services of some of the best bio-researchers in Sirius


[] Observation Post:
As expected there your scientist are hotly debating on how to proceed with the aliens of the Cimmeria system, formerly known as Alpha 07. Some argue that you should study them only passively and let them develop on their own, both for ethical reason and because this is a perfect opportunity to study the technological development of another species. Other argue that humanity can't afford to be squeamish and that every measure needs to be taken to make sure those aliens are no threat to you. Complicating the issue is that the planet is potentially inhabitable by humans which raises even more questions of how to proceed. As always the decision is up to you and your fellow Directorate members.

[] Option 1: Passive Observation
Humanity shouldn't interfere with the the planet in any way and only passively observe the developments. You will build a small station from which your scientist can study the planet and its inhabitants but otherwise follow an hands off approach.
Cost: Medium, Result: Passive study of the planet, no immediate benefits, small observation post

[] Option 2: Compromise
You agree that the aliens should be let in peace, at least for now, but that doesn't mean you have to ignore the rest of the planet. It should be relatively easy to avoid the alien inhabitants and still conduct research on the actual planet. This actions would be a bit more expensive do to the additional equipment and manpower needed to study the planet while leaving no signs of your doing so.
Cost: High, Result: Study alien planet but avoid aliens, more information, small observation post

[] Option 3: Aggressive Observation
It may be distasteful but you agree that you need as much information as possible as quickly as possible, even if that means dissecting some aliens. You will still build a small observation pos but give your scientist free reign over how they want to proceed.
Cost: Medium, Result: Study alien planet and aliens, detailed information, possible morale loss due to unethical behaviour


[] Jumpholes:
You and Henry recently oversaw and in depth search for additional jumpholes in the newly discovered systems and you have found several new system to explore, as well as some interesting interconnections between existing systems.
(Only useful connections shown, systems like Alpha 06 are ignored for now)

Option 1: Explore Alpha 8
Chance of success: 70%, Result: System explored

Option 2: Explore Alpha 9
Chance of success: 70%, Result: System explored

Option 3: Explore Alpha 10
Chance of success: 70%, Result: System explored


[] Hunt for Element Zero - Terminus Version:
You research into possible eezo deposits in Sirius has so far been relatively unproductive with the best you can find being mentions of trace amounts that may possible be eezo. You have contacted you contacts in the Houses to have them look into the matter but if you want quick results your best is probably to look for the stuff yourself, starting in the territory claimed by you.



Name: Deep Space Exploration (DSX)

Directorate:
CEO - Edison Trent
Directorate of Security: Henry de Bohun (previously BAF)
  • Vice Director: Dalton Mortimer (previously BAF Marines)
Directorate of Administration: Mark Davis (previously Zoners)

Directorate of Logistics: Gerd Müller (previously Daumann)

Directorate of Industry: Talia Drake (previously IMG)

Directorate of Intelligence: Alexandra (previously the Order)


Reputation:
Powerful Minor Power
People are starting to treat you like a proper, if rather small, mega-company and as always success begets envy. Competitors start to take you seriously and criminals start to take note of your ships and their contents.


Ethos: Pragmatic Lawful
The large presence of highly trained military and industrial personnel means that your people tend to follow the rules and avoid ethically questionable actions. Your recent activities however have started to encourage a more open minded and practical position when it comes to criminals.

Supply: Extremely well supplied
Your supply network not only finally catched up to your increased demand but the recent influx of capital and resources from the artifact trade have allowed Müller and Davis to seriously "future" proof your logistics network and you now have to resources for a number of serious investments

Manpower: 13.000
You are reasonably well staffed with many experienced people in non-combat roles, especially space exploration and mining. Your organisation has expanded significantly to deal with the increased need for manpower but your security has been up to the task so far. However some of fellow directors have started to complain about lacking personnel skilled enough for upper/middle management positions, especially since your recent additions to DSX have increased the need for those immensely.


Military:
Level of equipment: Standard
Your military is well equipped and can maintain several ongoing operations

Average experience:
Veteran: Nearly all your pilots and soldiers have proven their mettle on various battlefields and skirmishes.

Size (compared to other factions in Sirius): small to average
- You command a military force roughly equivalent to three aircraft Groups
- Capital ships: 1 corvette (Valiant)

Force composition:
The large majority of you military force consists of (former() BAF pilots who mostly field heavy and medium fighters. You also employ a double strength squadron of heavy fighters from the Order while the rest of your forces flies a wide spread of semi-"civilian" ships.

Readiness:
100%


Current deployments:
Short ranged patrols - minimal decrease of ready military forces
Long range escorts for artifact trade - notable decrease of ready military forces


"Ground" Forces:
A battalion of Royal Marines (BAF)


Installations:
Nirn:
Solitude/Alpha Base: The main base of DSX is located in one of the bigger asteroids, circa ten kilometers in diameter, of the outer asteroid field in the Alpha01 system. The metal heavy composition of the asteroid paired with advanced stealth systems mean that the base is hard to detect for any known sensors.

The base is still undergoing construction but can already house more than five thousand people as well as their associated ships and equipment with the current goal to create enough room to comfortably house ten thousand people. Recently a small industrial complex has been added to it, allowing it to produce a small amount of basic materials.

It is also home to a well equipped pilot training school where the next generation of DSX is getting trained as well as a officer's school/internal university capable of providing top tier education and training.

In regards for active defenses it features numerous military grade point defense turrets as well as a lesser number of anti fighter guns.


Omicron Lambda:
Cintra: Located near the Omicron Theta jumphole in Omicron Lambda this small asteroidbase primarily monitors said jumphole and to oversee the local patrols.

Voss:
VossKa: Located near the Mass Relay in the Voss system this small station is currently home to a detachment of scientist trying to research said Relay.

Vega:
Padirac Station: A small space station whose primary duty is to serve as an logistical and command hub for any DSX activities in the Vega system,

Hyrule:
Hylia Base: A well armed base located in the Hyrule system it serves the dual purpose of a military staging ground as well as a launching pad for further projects of the system.

Border post Goron: Designed to monitor to the Larissa Jumphole and any ships travelling through it it has also extensive facilities specially designed to deal with aliens.


Omicron Kappa:
Fortitude: A well armed base located in the Hyrule system it serves the dual purpose of a military staging ground as well as a launching pad for further projects of the system. It also the main logistical centre of your artifact trade and from it your ships transport the artifacts to the rest of Sirius.

Special:
Hood: The Hood is a refurbished battleship that now serves as a civilian carrier. It can carry up to four wings of fighters and operate independently from any base for long amounts of time. It may lack most of its offensive weaponry but even its current state it packs a nasty punch when going up against smaller spacecraft.


Mining operations:
Mining operation (rare metals) in Omicron Kappa
Small mining operation (diamonds) in Omicron Kappa
Mining operation (Ice) in Omicron Kappa

Small mining operation (diamonds) Nirn

Other Operations:
Artifact Trade: Active in all of Sirius

GM: Very much the calm before the storm.
 
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[X] Share the loot
[X] Corsair Mining
-[] Option 2: "Rogue" Miners
[X] Unholy Alliance- Focus point
-[] Option 1.2 Assist the Rheinwehr
[X] Disclosure
[X] Directorate for Xenobiology and Xenorelations
-[] Cryer
[X] Hunt for Element Zero - Sirius Version


I believe we need these actions. Share the Loot isn't necessary, but would be nice to start lowering the debt owed.

We need to continue pushing through the Corsair moderation. Disclosure is definitely needed. Xenobiology is pretty important. Eezo is crucial.
 
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My personal opinion is that we try to build up while limiting contact with the xenos.
 
The Disclosure button is a tightrope balancing act. Can we use the secrecy to amass assets that will secure our position while at the same time not delay the notification of the Houses too much so they can present a unified front when the Council or Terminus comes looking for the new rumored species.

Before that however we really need to crack down on Mass Effect artifacts and Eezo so we can sequre it and be the major provider of it to the houses.


We might even want to get another battleship or two to further enhance security...
 
My personal opinion is that we try to build up while limiting contact with the xenos.
We are going to have to keep a low profile in the Terminus until we have a handle on Eezo and can counter Eezo based tech.

Focus most of our efforts on securing our backyard (moderating the Corsairs and crushing the Hessians), secure friendly relations with other corps like Cryer, and build up our infrastructure and fleet.
 
[X] Directorate for Xenobiology and Xenorelations
-[X] Cryer
[X] Hunt for Element Zero - Sirius Version
[X] Hunt for Element Zero - Terminus Version

These three options are basically our core mission.

[X] Vega exploitation
-[X] Option 1: C-mining

Never stop the econ train.

[X] Corsair Mining:
-[X] Option 1: DSX
[X] Unholy Alliance + Focus

And the current events of the day. I opt for DSX with the Corsairs because other than the lower success chance, I'm wary of entanglements dragging IMG down and causing resentment if something fucks up with the Corsairs somehow.
 
@Erandil Shouldn't we have more fighter wings than just three? I thought we did an action which gave us a new wing per turn. I think we also did the Officer School, shouldn't that be alleviating our management problem?
 
I don't support not informing the Houses. The more we delay the more likely it is that the Houses will get pissed off. We aren't a economical or political powerhouse like the hypercorps are. Also, I don't want to go out into the Terminus systems to look for Eezo because its too risky. I don't want to run into Batarians or other opportunists. Better to look for eezo in the Sirius sector only. We are pretty much guaranteed to get enough for research anyways.
 
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Also, I don't want to go out into the Terminus systems to look for Eezo because its too risky. I don't want to run into Batarians or other opportunists. Better to look for eezo in the Sirius sector only. We are pretty much guaranteed to get enough for research anyways.
[] Hunt for Element Zero - Terminus Version:
You research into possible eezo deposits in Sirius has so far been relatively unproductive with the best you can find being mentions of trace amounts that may possible be eezo. You have contacted you contacts in the Houses to have them look into the matter but if you want quick results your best is probably to look for the stuff yourself, starting in the territory claimed by you.

As for the Houses, well this is basically our remit and we don't actually have that much to report to them. Let's do the talks first this turn and then Disclosure afterwards with a deal and more intel.
 
@Erandil Shouldn't we have more fighter wings than just three? I thought we did an action which gave us a new wing per turn. I think we also did the Officer School, shouldn't that be alleviating our management problem?

Groups are made of several wings. I initially used those terms rather hazardous but theoretically I try to follow this format (which I think is the one the british use)

Group
Wing
Squadron


Your military is indeed growing, especially since your losses have been rather small so far but I generally don't track the numbers of it that closely. And I don't think you have a management problem in general - you simply have a lack of some very specialised specialists that to train yourself would take quite a bit of time which is why I offer the chance of simply hiring additional ones.

I don't support not informing the Houses. The more we delay the more likely it is that the Houses will get pissed off. We aren't a economical or political powerhouse like the hypercorps are. Also, I don't want to go out into the Terminus systems to look for Eezo because its too risky. I don't want to run into Batarians or other opportunists. Better to look for eezo in the Sirius sector only. We are pretty much guaranteed to get enough for research anyways.

Well you can probably delay it for another turn or two without risking any serious upset from the houses (which would also make the whole initial talk thing a bit easier) but then it starts to become an issue, that is true. And while you might not be as influential as some of the mega-companies you have amassed quite a bit of political capital, especially in Rheinland and Bretonia.

And the Terminus action means that you would look for eezo in your currently explored territory so the risk of running into Batarians is rather small, though of course in short-midterm raiders and pirates might become an issue on that front.
 
My thought on the vote:

[] Share the loot
I think it's about time we started repaying our backers. At the same time, outright buying out the IMG would not only cost a lot when we are likely about to enter an expansion phase (eezo + alien tech), but it would also reduce the IMG's interest in our local area. I think having them around might be more useful than not.

[] Unholy Alliance + Focus Point
With this and the below, this will give us a 95% chance of crushing the Red Hessians. Given that this involves crushing their main base, their secondary base, and a major waystation, I think this could outright finish the Red Hessian questline with destroying all their local power and rendering them a non-threat, essentially ending the Red Hessians as a major faction. Needless to say, the last thing we want is a pirate threat when we're establishing contact and ties with aliens, and will likely want to expand economically into local space. After this, the only major threat in our local space from Sirius will be the Outcasts. Working as part of a cooperative attack between us and Rheinland could also help our legitimizing efforts.

[] Option 2: Omega 41 Offensive
-[] Option 2.1: Deploy Hood

Combined with the above, this three-prong attack should eliminate the Red Hessians as a threat. I also want to use the Hood: it gives us a 100% chance of success, we haven't used it for anything yet, and it's not like there's any risk of giving things away if we use it in Sirius.

[] Corsair Mining
-[] Option 2: "Rogue" Miners

As the option says, this will help the Corsair progressive movement gain power, which combined with allying with a well-respected international mining organization, will further push the Corsairs in legitimacy. It will also encourage the IMG to stay in the area, and may help to pay off our debt -- I can't help but think that this deal will be lucrative, and that may reflect well on us. If I understand the location of the Red Hessians relative to us and the Corsairs correctly, crushing them should cover much of the IMG's security concerns. However, this could be replaced with the DSX option with little complaint from me.

[] Hunt for Element Zero - Sirius Version
Naturally.

[] Directorate for Xenobiology and Xenorelations
-[] Cryer

The main option is an obvious one, as it is almost literally the entire reason for DSX's existence. I would like to bring in Cryer because, well, they are Sirius' experts in xenobiology, and know what they are doing a hell of a lot better than we do. If we take the Cryer option, though, we will need to do Disclosure this turn or next; no way in hell are they keeping a secret like that to themselves.

Two things I've left out: [] Disclosure and [] Hunt for Element Zero - Terminus Version. For the first, I think we should hold it off until next turn, after the gala and initial deal-making. I think it would be better for us if we can present a "finished product", so to speak, a reasonable deal that will act as the beginning for future negotiation and diplomacy. Do so first will give us more political clout with the Houses -- we're the guys the Asari know, after all -- and demonstrate that we are an effective diplomatic force. Overall, I think if we do successfully complete initial negotiations first, we'll be able to keep more of our autonomy after Disclosure, and thus have a stronger effect on events.

For the second, more eezo, I simply think that we should establish ourselves somewhat in the Terminus before we start staking claims everywhere for the single most valuable resource in the galaxy. The gala/deal with the Asari colony should do that, as it will make us a known player on the galactic scene and hopefully lead to fewer misunderstandings.

So, to sum up: We crush the Hessians, pay off some of our IMG debt, further the legitimization of the Corsairs, look for eezo, and start studying alien stuff. Thoughts?

[X] Share the loot
[X] Unholy Alliance
+ Focus Point
[X] Option 2: Omega 41 Offensive
-[X] Option 2.1: Deploy Hood
[X] Corsair Mining
-[X] Option 2: "Rogue" Miners
[X] Hunt for Element Zero - Sirius Version
[X] Directorate for Xenobiology and Xenorelations
-[X] Cryer
 
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With this and the below, this will give us a 95% chance of crushing the Red Hessians. Given that this involves crushing their main base, their secondary base, and a major waystation, I think this could outright finish the Red Hessian questline with destroying all their local power and rendering them a non-threat, essentially ending the Red Hessians as a major faction. Needless to say, the last thing we want is a pirate threat when we're establishing contact and ties with aliens, and will likely want to expand economically into local space. After this, the only major threat in our local space from Sirius will be the Outcasts. Working as part of a cooperative attack between us and Rheinland could also help our legitimizing efforts.

The Red Hessian mainbase is located somewhere in the Dresden system and not part of this operation so totally destroying the Red Hessians is a bit too optimistic. If successful you would however really reduce them to a minor and mostly local problem instead of the massive organization they have been.

The main option is an obvious one, as it is almost literally the entire reason for DSX's existence. I would like to bring in Cryer because, well, they are Sirius' experts in xenobiology, and know what they are doing a hell of a lot better than we do. If we take the Cryer option, though, we will need to do Disclosure this turn or next; no way in hell are they keeping a secret like that to themselves.

You wouldn't necessarily tell Cryer what exactly you are up to when you take that option but use your favour to get them to "transfer" some of their scientists over to you. While this gives you a solid basis for future cooperation this doesn't make them a true supporter of your organization.
 
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The Red Hessian mainbase is located somewhere in the Dresden system and not part of this operation so totally destroying the Red Hessians is a bit too optimistic. If successful you would however really reduce them to a minor and mostly local problem instead of the massive organization they have been.
But it would still kick them out of our area, right? And ideally, alleviate the IMG's security concerns somewhat?
 
But it would still kick them out of our area, right? And ideally, alleviate the IMG's security concerns somewhat?

Yes, their ability to raid/be active in the Omegas would be seriously hampered and your transport/supply routes would almost certainly be beyond their reach. And it would help with the IMG's concerns somewhat but the biggest fear of the IMG is that the Corsairs may decide to revoke the cooperation in the future and thus they depend on you to prevent this from happening.
 
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Yes, their ability to raid/be active in the Omegas would be seriously hampered and your transport/supply routes would almost certainly by beyond their reach. And it would help with the IMG's concerns somewhat but the biggest fear of the IMG is that the Corsairs may decide to revoke the cooperation in the future and thus they depend on you to prevent this from happening.
Well, we play things right with the Corsairs and hopefully that will never come up.
 
Well, we play things right with the Corsairs and hopefully that will never come up.

That is the strategy. And you have an IC information advantage here - short term the Corsairs need the IMG (and its knowledge) and are unlikely to attack them while long term the likely introduction of the new ftl drive will seriously weaken the Corsairs strategic position and seriously strengthen your own/that of the Houses.
 
[x] Corsair Mining:
-[x] Option 1: DSX
[x] Unholy Alliance + Focus
-[x] Option 1.2 Assist the Rheinwehr:
[x] Option 2: Omega 41 Offensive
-[x] Option 2.1: Deploy Hood:
[x] Hunt for Element Zero - Sirius Version
[x] Directorate for Xenobiology and Xenorelations
-[x] Cryer
[x] Hunt for Element Zero - Terminus Version


I very much like the idea of a one-two-three punch combo against the Red Hessians, launching a three-pronged attack that'll effectively relegate them to minor importance that the Rheinland police should be quite capable of dealing with on their own, especially since they already no longer waste time and resources hunting the Bundschuh. It also helps remove one potential issue for trade with the Terminus, since the Red Hessians would no longer be able to operate in the area. That'd still leave the Corsairs and Outcasts, but we're working on turning the first ones more moderate, and the latter... well, chances are they'll get the first Eezo-powered battlefleet the Houses can build dropped onto their heads.

As for the rest, further strengthening Corsair progressive/moderate elements would help in both the short and long term (short term it'll help turn them away from piracy, long term it means building the Corsairs into another economic power who can trade with the Terminus, strengthening humanity as a whole). Doing it ourselves is somewhat more expensive, but at the moment we can easily afford it, and it would likely help to improve our standing with the Corsair's moderate elements, which could be very helpful in the future.

Eezo is obviously extremely important, so finding it ASAP is a very good idea. And with the amount of aliens we'll have to deal with, and the various technologies they're likely to use, expanding our capabilities in that regard is a no-brainer as well.
 
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