Back to the Grind
Back to the Grind
2173-Q3
Company Actions
[X] IFV UberJJK
The Tiger IFV is good to go and selling well.
[X] Letter of the law. Produce 50,000 Arc Reactors for the Citadel market. Let Lindsey handle the rest of your available production capabilities.
Since you company produces other products you have little trouble choosing to sell only the required amount and allocating the rest as needed. The levels need will be revisited on 2174-Q1.
"To an outsider it may look like we are prioritizing the Tiger over the arc-reactor. Given that the arc-reactor is a higher profit item people might talk." Mr. Freeman muses during a meeting.
"We were founded by a colonist that publicly criticized the alliance's ability to defend its colonies. If we didn't prioritize the Systems Alliance military to some degree we'd also get people 'talking', wouldn't we?" Lindsey points out.
"True, public opinion is complicated that way. I think we can present a good image with the current planned split. A fair amount the sold arc-reactors are going to other Citadel militaries. So while we look like part of the military industrial complex we aren't seen as favoring humanity too much."
[X] Build 3 Factory III's in each of Mindoir's other cities (total: 6), and upgrade the Factory I and II in Landing to Factory III's as well (total: 2). Total Cost: ~9 Billion, ~3 Billion left
Mindoir's other cities welcome the expansion of Paragon Industries and the potential benefits. On the other hand you may need some security outside guards for those new factories. To get security to the same standards as the Landing campus' security you'd need to spend one million credits per building in both initial cost and upkeep.
Invest in security? 1 million per building per quarter (amount will be the same for any "high security" buildings)
[ ] Yes
[ ] No
[ ] Some other amount (More for better security!)
[X] Begin to look into expanding Paragon Industries beyond Mindoir. Specifically, conctac the government/administration of Elysium about constructing production and research facilities on their planet.
Elysium's government seems willing to let you expand there. However, there are concerns that your facilities would be "pirate bait", Elysium has already had to deal with pirate raids. If you do expand there they would like it if you considered security a priority. Anything that would increase general colony security would also be welcome.
Mr. Freeman has noted that being on Elysium would put us on the "front" of the so-called "war on piracy". Which may have political implication on both Terminus space and Citadel space as well as here in the Alliance. In short it may make humanity look even more aggressive and may tie us closer to the Systems Alliance military industrial complex in the public's eyes.
You are free to build things on Elysium If you so wish.
[x] Hire an additional 20 Security Teams on Mindoir to protect the facilities under construction in the other cities. Keep their equipment at normal hardsuits and smallarms for now, to be upgraded to Legionaries later.
You new employees get to work protecting your facilities. They are a little disappointed that they don't get to use the new powered armor right away, but they understand the need for training. The high quality "normal" gear is enough to make each guard worth a few conventional troops anyway. Both of the heads of security for the other cities however encourage you to invest in additional security features outside of guards and a few basic systems.
Research Actions
[X] Peak Human - 30d10+55 + Overflow 1
30D10+55=>233 + 212=445/400 Finished! Overflow+45/2=22.5
Jeff Moreau had to admit that he was quite enjoying what the attendant had called a "floaty chair". It combined all the benefits of a wheeled chair and made it so he didn't have to abuse his bones anymore. Besides floating around was cool even if he wouldn't say that out loud.
Jeff had just gotten though with a round of medical tests in preparation for being one of Paragon Industries' guinea pigs and had been escorted to a spare meeting room to wait. Hopefully this new treatment would fix his chronic skeletal issues. Then he could pursue his life's goal without the ever-present risk of snapping bones.
The room, like most of Paragon Industries, practically oozed high-tech. The equipment was top quality. The computer and extranet connection Jeff was using to entertain himself while he waited was lightning fast. Even the chairs were advanced technological gadgets and probably far more expensive then would be sane for a chair.
"Not that it's bad," Jeff mused as he leveraged the chair's powers of levitation to fetch another complimentary bottled drink.
The door opened letting in a girl and a man in a doctor's coat. The girl was easy to identify Rebecca Shepard, girl genus and inventor extraordinaire. Her introduction merely pointed out the obvious, "Hi, I'm Rebecca Shepard, or Revy is you prefer, this is Dr. Young, he's in charge of the testing for the Perficere project. And you are Jeff Moreau?"
"That would be me. Pleasure to meet you both."
"Pleasure to meet you as well Mr. Moreau," Dr. Young added.
Pleasantries thus exchanged the Doctor began detailing the test's results mostly covering medical details that Jeff was all to aware of. Dr. Young finally got to the end of his review saying, "All things told we'll probably need a full year of treatment to fix the bone structure. That does however give us a lot of time for the upgrade cycles."
"We have several options, the buff superman look has been very popular." the Doctor continued, switching the screen to show a 3d hologram of Jeff, but with the physique of a well muscled body builder.
"Of course we can go all out," the screen showed even buffer Jeff, "or go for something more moderate," the screen switched again showing a build more suited for an acrobat.
"Reflexes," Jeff injected during a pause, "I don't really care about being super strong or tough, just a bit more durable than I am now. But reflexes, agility, dexterity that stuff has high as you can go."
With a few key presses the screen shifted again. The on-screen Jeff changed, still athletic looking but defiantly built for agility. "Yeah like that."
"Well good then. I'll have the treatment setup for that."
After a long silence Rebecca finally chimed in, "I think you're the first male tester that was only interested in a more moderate level of strength, would you be willing to explain why?"
"Well, yeah... how do I explain this? I guess, I'm a pilot at heart. I fly things, even with a crippled body like mine I can fly things. Sure its only been aircars and a shuttles, but for me this," Jeff said taping his chest, "is for putting this," he tapped his head, "in charge of something that can do far more than any human body can do. So unless you can make me into a ship I'm not too worried about physical strength."
"Makes sense, well see about having some fight sims available for you. Hm... ship people... maybe with the new ANI? Then you'd have to..." Rebecca trailed of lost in thought.
Peak Human treatment now available and in testing. SA testing and approval process estimated to last a year. Though you could use it sooner on volunteers that sign a waiver.
[X] CASIE Implant - 70d10+65 + Overflow 2
70D10+65=>499 = 499/400 Finished! Overflow+99/2=73
"Okay CASIE social analyzer test seven.", you stand in front of the machine that holds the latest edition of the CASIE system and deliver your line, "Do these pants make my butt look big?"
Deflect the question by complementing her appearance.
"Well that far better than when it was advising a tactical retreat, running away in terror, or giving up on life." your dad comments.
"Are you sure this is a vital aspect of the CASIE's social analyzer? I don't think that's a question I'd ever actually ask." you question your father.
"Very important. Having the right answer to questions like that can make or break relationships" your father assures you. You're pretty sure he's having you on, but a test is a test!
CASIE implants now available.
[X] Frigates - 40d10+40 + Overflow 3
40D10+40=>276 + 24 =300/300 Finished! Overflow-24=49.
Turns out that space ships are even more complicated than rocket science. Many hours are spent simulating ships and watching as they explode, their virtual crew dies, or yet another thing breaks.
In the end though you think you've got the technology and engineering behind the so-called "Frigate" class covered.
Of course adding in your advanced technology is the best part. Using an arc-reactor vastly drops the need space for the reactor core. Then by adding repulsors you can go fast! Possibly too fast, after taking reality and relativity into account the ships will probably only go 60LY/day at their peak speed. Still that four times as fast as the fastest Citadels ship can do!
Your advanced materials make the hull and armor plates stronger than ever and if you pay a bit more the Arcane Blur plates make it even better! That and a thousand and one minor tweaks, upgrades and improvements make your frigates the best ever, a fact you have scientifically proven.
There is just one small issue.
"It needs guns."
"I know Conrad." you say.
"Not small MA cannons or GARDIAN lasers or other PD or CIWS stuff, I'm talking big guns. The kind that make it clear that you're on the wrong end and don't want to be there." Conrad continues.
"I know Conrad. It's on the to do list."
"Good. 'Cause, it really needs guns."
[X] Improved Warhead - 0d10+0 + 150 Bonus RP
150/150 Finished!
The arms race between offense and defense continues. This time you're going to make contributions to the offensive side.
Using the shield breaching system's eezo you can generate a shield around the missile protecting it from kinetic point defense. Further improvements allow the missile to evade fire as it homes in on its target. Repulsor tech makes the missile faster and safer to the operator. The improved power cell allows the shield breaching system to work on more powerful shields. Finally the actual warhead is upgraded using MHD tech and a few mass effect tricks to deliver more hurt then the previous Pilum.
"It works much better," a research observes after test firing the new missile against a plate of shielded Lorica armor. The plate has a nice hole in it where the missile broke though. "Anything else?"
"Clearly we need to develop better armor."
"And then better missiles?"
"Yep."
Pilum II is good to go. Unless you want to change the name?
[X] Advanced Neural Interface - 0d10+0 + 400 Bonus RP
400/400 Finished!
The brain has an amazing capacity to adapt. Using VI technology you can have the computer even adapt back to a limited degree. With a deep and complex interface the line between man and machine is blurred. This unity of man and machine provides untold of potential scientifically artistically, socially and in ways you haven't even considered yet.
Of course all that makes the first use of it obvious as far as you're concerned:
"You iz going down hume!"
"Not if I kill you first xeno scum!"
Full VR gaming.
Advanced Neural Interface ready for use. It works even better if you put it in you head.
[X] Advanced ME Theory - 0d10+0 + 400 Bonus RP
400/400 Finished!
The science of dark energy is complicated. Getting stuff recognized and published by the scientific community is at least a little easier. VI technology allow the the production of proper reports with far less effort then you imagine people had to use back in the old days.
You and your theoretical team test the boundaries of mass effect science. Exploring the possibilities of your new technologies and the new tests they allow. Mostly putting ever larger amounts of energy into things. You get several papers published. Your work on multiple core interaction receives some note. However it is "Complex Dark Energy Field Effects" which considers the effects of dark energy-dark energy interaction the that gets the most attention.
Enough attention that you get the opportunity to defend it as a thesis. You and your team prepare well and after the presentation is made, the questions answered and the review board has considered things you are now the owner of a paper that proclaims you a PhD of Mass Effect Theory. The Society of Mass Effect Scientists even sent you a pointy broad-brimmed hat with the words "space wizard" on it and suitably adorned with the core mass effect formulas.
You now have a PhD, also you ME tech works a bit better.
[X] Optical Computing 0d10 + Overflow 4
49/800 Work In Progress
The idea to use eezo to increase the speed of optical computing isn't exactly original, but the people who know the tricks aren't telling. You've considered the problem and made some preliminary tests, but other things have consumed your time.
Banked: 0
Points lost to overflow 72
Personal Actions
[X] Look into starting a Private Military Company.
The main barrier to starting a PMC is the paperwork apparently. You can see why so may run themselves out of the Terminus. That said any sane government is going to want some accountability for any force running around with significant firepower.
Who do you want to get your PMC license from?
[ ] Systems Alliance (1.5 million in total fees)
[ ] Citadel (1 million in fees)
[ ] The Terminus (Free because there is no license!)
[ ] Don't start a PMC
PMC Name?
[ ] (Write in)
[X] Headhunt a research hero (this will not necessarily come into fruition immediately).
-[x] Search for someone with experience in Shielding/Barrier technology, in hopes that we might be able to design shields that can protect against DEWs.
Finding the right kind of people is hard. You need people with that extra bit of capacity. The right intellect, the right mind-set and that somewhat "magical" spark of creativity. So many of them are already employed or involved with their own things and even then you have to separate out the mad men and charlatans from the visionaries.
Humanity is still trying to develop their technology and while at times they can find new avenues that others missed, the other races of the galaxy have far more experience. You best success comes from sources outside the SA:
Gala Da'van is a 320 year old asari scientist that is an expert in electromagnetism as well as plasma. She has some ideas that you think that combined with the options your technology allows could produce new shielding technologies.
Jenzel Fend nar Rayya is a 23 year old male quarian that has done a fair amount of work on what he calls "Impregnated Dark Energy Fields". Or in simpler terms sticking things into mass effect fields and then seeing what that does.
Gaver Dor is a rare Krogan scientist that specializes in high strength mass effect fields. You found out about him by chance when he replied to one of your papers on mass effect theory. He has several interesting ideas on mass effect shielding that would require more power then would be reasonable conventionally.
They all seem like people who could benefit Paragon Industries and from what you can tell are not affiliated with anyone hostile to you.
Who will you pursue? (Choose one)
[ ] Gala Da'van
[ ] Jenzel Fend nar Rayya
[ ] Gaver Dor
[ ] No one
[X] Clean break. Continue as if nothing has changed until he actually ships out.
-[X] But keep in touch and try to stay friends. You're honestly looking forward to hearing stories about his experiences in bootcamp.
"We remember to write, or call or.. whatever." You say, a little unsure of exactly what to say. Your going to miss Brian. He was... a different preservative. In many ways he is just another guy, but he... He could work with you socially. The differences between the two of you socially, mentally, economically... just never became a really noticeable issue. Considering your limited pool of friends that's kinda rare.
However, he has his plans and you have yours. So today you bid him goodbye as he heads out to join the Systems Alliance's armed forces. It far to calm a day to mark such a change. The sky is blue and empty. Isn't is supposed to rain or something?
"Yeah I will." he says, "And you, don't forget to get out and live a little. There's more to life than your tinkering. I know with me gone you'll be missing one of your convenient reminders to get out a bit more."
"Yeah, yeah" you roll your eyes, "Well good luck then, Brian."
"Hey I got some advance training with an N5 that should help right?" he says with a grin.
"Hopefully." you smile back.
"Anyway, goodbye Revy," Brian says, before you exchange a final hug and kiss.
"Goodbye, Brian."
You watch as he boards the shuttle and follow the path of the shuttle up into the clear sky. The weight of half-formed tears in you eyes. Far too simple a day. You bury you more egotistical self's suggestions for weather control technology, now is not the time for that. Besides a few tears that's kind of like a few rain drops isn't it?
You turn to leave after the shuttle is out of sight. Time to distract yourself with some science.
A few days later you get a brief note from Brian about the trials and tribulations of boot camp. Apparently he is "a small step above incompetent" in the eyes of the drill sergeant. Your glad he's doing well.
Additional Items for 2173-Q2
[X] Administer
[X] Be closed (and all willing personnel moved to the planned Elysium expansion)
-[X] Keep them
[X] All be kept after passing back ground checks and if they are willing to move if need. (Good PR, cost 750k if moved)
You begin the process of moving the former Shifting Developments personnel over to Elysium. Moving people isn't the fastest thing in the world, but they'll get there and be ready to work one they actually have a place to work.
"Captan Hwan, good to hear from you again." you say greeting the holoprojection of your new employee.
"Ms. Shepard, I've been looking into possible sites for the Elysium expansion" he says, getting down to business.
"Anything interesting?" you ask.
"Two sites other than the capital city stand out, near the city there is a large amount of land for sale that we could get cheap. It's very flat and open. Farther out there is a large granite out cropping. Very solid and large enough that we could build a base into it. We could take advantage of that if we were worried about pirate raids," he says, "The military engineer in me likes the idea of such a base if it's done right"
"Won't help much against a dedicated attack though, would it?" you consider.
"Not much does ma'am. If the guy that has the orbitals whats you dead you tend to die if you can't hide. Even then that might not help."
"Any other issues?"
"Its far out so we'll probably have to construct additional facilities and maybe some housing. Employees might not be as happy if their job is out in the middle of nowhere as well."
"I'll take that into consideration then"
Do you want to grab one of the sites?
[ ] Underground base is go! (Security bonus, additional costs 20 million)
[ ] Big site (+1 factory slot)
[ ] Nah, stay in/near the capital
[ ] Actually let's not expand to Elysium.
[X] Nova Mark
Nova Mark is ecstatic about getting to interview you. They'd be willing to do just about any type of interview what kind do you want to do? Below are some of the question and topics, what are your answers? If there's something you think you should mention you could add that in, recall though that Nova Mark's focus is technology and popular science. So they're more interested in new technologies and how they effects things.
What type of interview? (You can if you wish review any type of interview before publication.)
[ ] Video
[ ] Audio
[ ] Text
Where will you do the interview?
[ ] Over the extranet
[ ] At the Paragon Industries complex
[ ] At your home
What got you into science and engineering in the first place?
[ ] Write-in
Where did the idea for the Legionary armor come from?
[ ] Write-in
What can you tell us about the arc-reactor (and/or other PI technologies)?
[ ] Keep it vague.
[ ] Basic layman's explanation
[ ] Basic technical details.
What do you think the effects of the arc-reactor will be on society?
[ ] Write-in
And on the military?
[ ] Write-in
What should we expect to see next from Paragon Industries?
[ ] Write-in
-[ ] Show of something? (Write in)
Who's you favorite historical scientist?
[ ] Write-in
[x] Talk to someone. (Who?)
-[X] Mom or dad - they are there, they are your closest people, you can talk to them
-[X] A professional - finding a good one takes time, after all, even with your resources
--[X] Contact your alliance contacts and ask for recommendation for a therapist. N7 program is bound to have them, and their security is good too
---[X] Still have your people check anyone proposed and look for one independently
1D100+60=>83
With Dad:
"Hmm, it' s all kinda complicated isn't it? Each person is going to be a bit different. Ironically the ideal would be not thinking about things you can't change. But at the same time that's a tall order. So, when you can't do something focus on what you can do. Don't lockup on trying to solve something you have no power over. The Alliance's unofficial official policy for soldiers during a drop is to have them sing something. It's a distraction and helps morale. It'd be bad for dropping troops to fixate on the fact that they are a good AA weapon shot away from death." your dad muses as he fiddles at a workbench. You sit near by listening.
"As for afterwards? Do something productive, something you can look at and say, 'I did that'. Me? I like to tinker. Might work for you too seeing what we have in common." he says, "Hand me that wire over there, the number three red would you?"
You pick up the coil of wire and pass it over to your dad, "Thanks" he grabs the wire from you hand, "Want to join in? I'm making a new floating mag-light"
With Mom:
"For me it has helped to have a clear understanding of things I can do and what I can't. I can't fight warships, therefore I should focus on tending to things in the ship I can do. Or preparing for when things change and there is something useful to do. I'm also learned to trust in others, my life is in the hands of someone else. Soldiers can pick up a lot of superstitions, deluding themselves into thinking some minor thing they're doing can magically 'help'." Your mom sits on the other side of the kitchen table mug of coffee in hand.
Your mom's train of thought shifts, her voice dulling, "I saw you focusing on the fight and starting to lockup... I'm... sorry, I..."
You grab your mom's free hand, "Hey it's not your fault. I think fast. I'd hyper focused a few seconds after the first shots hit. Besides it's not like any of us thought that we'd really need to prepare for that sort of thing. Nor do I have any serious military training"
"Thanks Revy." she says with a smile, "I'm glad you're dealing with this is such a mature fashion. I suppose now we do know to prepare. I'd advise some form of training. Your fancy brain machines might be able to VR something."
"I think I could do that."
With: Dr. Kopitar:
"I think Revy that over the last few weeks we have established a good working solution for your difficulties. They are not resolved fully, but what we have done has produced results and in time will produce full closure. Would you agree?" Dr. Kopitar asks, from his chair.
"Yeah, I've got things I can do. I've got people I can trust. Especially people who can tell me to chill if I'm going too far. Brian leaving cut that number down a bit, but I've still got people. I can only imagine what I'd end up like if I didn't." You say, leaning back into the couch in Dr. Kopitar's office, "Worst thing is the occasional nightmare. It makes my mad scientist side, if I may anthropomorphize a bit, go, 'hey you can totally fix your brain so that doesn't happen any more'. Not sure that's the best idea."
"As we've discussed before, I recommend either lucid dreaming practice or meditation. You may find a tie-in to your biotic training." Dr. Kopitar advises.
"It's finding the time for that which is the real challenge."
[X] Launch an investigation
-[X] 1 million
--[X] More if interesting results, or hints of such results surface
You investigative team is hard pressed to find much of anything, even looking at known relay transits yields no results. However, there is one lead:
Greetings Rebecca Shepard,
In exchange for 500 million credits I can give you access to information that would be most useful for your investigation. If you are interested deposit the credits in the escrow account whose details are attached.
What will you do?
[ ] Pay (500 million credits)
[ ] Keep investigating without the information
-[ ] How much will you spend?
[ ] Stop investigating
Much Ado about Arc-reactors
Several groups have approached Paragon Industries about buying arc-reactors outside the standard market sales. First off is Eldfell-Ashland Energy who our are interested in buying a few larger arc-reactors for use in their power facilities. Eldfell-Ashland Energy is a major company and has a large share of the energy market, particularly in fusion power. This is most likely an attempt to adapt to the presence of arc-reactor technology and the possible loss of market share they face.
The Post-Scarcity Society, a multi-racial group that does charitable work and strives to reduce scarcity as much as possible. They take a fairly long view in their goals and a the Citadel's premier charitable group. Some of their more recent work has been to improve the situation on Earth. They would also like to acquire a few larger arc-reactors. They're status as a recognized charitable group also means that any donations of materials could be credited against taxes. Any arc-reactors we sell to them could be counted against the Citadel requirements. Fortunately we included a substitution clause that allows us to substitute one larger arc-reactor for several smaller ones.
Finally the Turian Hierarchy would like to negotiate a discount on several large orders of arc-reactors. These could also be counted against the Citadel requirements. They are looking to buy at least 10,000 arc-reactors per quarter for the next year and half, possibly more.
What shall we do?
[ ] Sell a few large arc-reactors to Eldfell-Ashland Energy
-[ ] How many, in what power and at what price?
[ ] Sell/Donate to The Post Scarcity Society
-[ ] Donate (How many of what power?)
-[ ] Don't Donate
[ ] Give the Turian Hierarchy a discount on their bulk order(s)
-[ ] How Much?
[ ]None of the above
Prothean Artifact
"Liara! How are things going? No more trouble I hope." You say greeting your distant friend.
"We are doing fine Revy. We've reached the Prothean ruins proper. It will take maybe six months all told to get the preliminary work done? How long it will take after that depends on what we find." Liara says with her usual exuberance, "However as I said before we managed to find an artifact that is completely intact. We're pretty sure its a technological artifact based on our scans, though it could be a really strange art piece I suppose... Anyway if you can spare some time could you or some of your researchers look over the scans?"
"Wouldn't it be easier to send it to us?" you ask.
"There are some legal complexities that make that a little more annoying than it would seem at first. If you think it would help after looking the scans I'll have it delivered, but dealing with the scans is far easier." Liara answers, "The laws can be annoying at times, but they help protect the artifacts."
"I'll take a look then if I get the chance then." you say.
[ ] Liara's Prothean Artifact [100]: Liara has scans of an artifact that she'd like you to look at. The actual artifact is a small 30cm x 20cm x 2cm slab seemingly made from a single block of an unknown material. One side is completely flat while the other has a few millimeter deep channels in it as most Prothean technological devices do. Liara believes it may be a Prothean data slate. (Available until 2173-Q4, results unknown)
Actions for 2173-Q3:
Company Actions:
[ ] Build Things
-[ ] What and were
[ ] Produce items for in house use
[ ] Write-in
Spare Time (pick two)
[ ] Train with Mom
[ ] Train Biotics
[ ] Practice piloting (Aircar)
[ ] Practice Train something else? (Write-in)
[ ] Work on a College degree via the extranet.
-[ ] Specify subject.
[ ] Explore Landing.
[ ] Headhunt a research hero (this will not necessarily come into fruition immediately).
-[ ] Specify area of expertise.
[ ] Spend time with family
[ ] Install Wetwear
-[ ] What?
[ ] Begin peak human treatment (May be chosen twice needs four uses of spare time to finish a full upgrade)
- [ ] What qualities to you want to increase and to what level?
[ ] Rapid Peak human treatment (Requires both spare time slots and removes research dice for a quarter, full upgrade done in a quarter)
[ ] Write-in
Research!
Revy: 4x 10d10+5
Labs: 4x 10d10+10
Research Teams: 12x 10d10+20
Conrad: 1x 10d10+15
Basic Research: 8x +10 (Must be applied to a 10d10, one application per 10d10)
Total: 210d10+395, average: 1550
----
GM's Note: Uggg... writing all those tech things was a pain... *checks stats* Holy shit, 19 pages! 8200+ words?! Umm yeah wow. Okay then. Well all the usual I guess. I'm hoping to get the new starship cost/production figures hammered out soon. I'm currently considering numbers around one-tenth the ones I first guesstimated for military ships and civilian ships being 100-5000 times less that that. Also I'm planning on getting a tech release/security status sheet put together. I hope this meets expectations, though I admit that after a point the length got to me. Also I think I collected all the votes scattered in the update into one spoiler at the end. Additional GM question: I've been avoiding abbreviating company names in the text save when a character would say/think that way. Does any one really care if I use abbreviations instead?
Edit: Put techs into a spoiler.
2173-Q3
Company Actions
[X] IFV UberJJK
The Tiger IFV is good to go and selling well.
[X] Letter of the law. Produce 50,000 Arc Reactors for the Citadel market. Let Lindsey handle the rest of your available production capabilities.
Since you company produces other products you have little trouble choosing to sell only the required amount and allocating the rest as needed. The levels need will be revisited on 2174-Q1.
"To an outsider it may look like we are prioritizing the Tiger over the arc-reactor. Given that the arc-reactor is a higher profit item people might talk." Mr. Freeman muses during a meeting.
"We were founded by a colonist that publicly criticized the alliance's ability to defend its colonies. If we didn't prioritize the Systems Alliance military to some degree we'd also get people 'talking', wouldn't we?" Lindsey points out.
"True, public opinion is complicated that way. I think we can present a good image with the current planned split. A fair amount the sold arc-reactors are going to other Citadel militaries. So while we look like part of the military industrial complex we aren't seen as favoring humanity too much."
[X] Build 3 Factory III's in each of Mindoir's other cities (total: 6), and upgrade the Factory I and II in Landing to Factory III's as well (total: 2). Total Cost: ~9 Billion, ~3 Billion left
Mindoir's other cities welcome the expansion of Paragon Industries and the potential benefits. On the other hand you may need some security outside guards for those new factories. To get security to the same standards as the Landing campus' security you'd need to spend one million credits per building in both initial cost and upkeep.
Invest in security? 1 million per building per quarter (amount will be the same for any "high security" buildings)
[ ] Yes
[ ] No
[ ] Some other amount (More for better security!)
[X] Begin to look into expanding Paragon Industries beyond Mindoir. Specifically, conctac the government/administration of Elysium about constructing production and research facilities on their planet.
Elysium's government seems willing to let you expand there. However, there are concerns that your facilities would be "pirate bait", Elysium has already had to deal with pirate raids. If you do expand there they would like it if you considered security a priority. Anything that would increase general colony security would also be welcome.
Mr. Freeman has noted that being on Elysium would put us on the "front" of the so-called "war on piracy". Which may have political implication on both Terminus space and Citadel space as well as here in the Alliance. In short it may make humanity look even more aggressive and may tie us closer to the Systems Alliance military industrial complex in the public's eyes.
You are free to build things on Elysium If you so wish.
[x] Hire an additional 20 Security Teams on Mindoir to protect the facilities under construction in the other cities. Keep their equipment at normal hardsuits and smallarms for now, to be upgraded to Legionaries later.
You new employees get to work protecting your facilities. They are a little disappointed that they don't get to use the new powered armor right away, but they understand the need for training. The high quality "normal" gear is enough to make each guard worth a few conventional troops anyway. Both of the heads of security for the other cities however encourage you to invest in additional security features outside of guards and a few basic systems.
Research Actions
[X] Peak Human - 30d10+55 + Overflow 1
30D10+55=>233 + 212=445/400 Finished! Overflow+45/2=22.5
Jeff Moreau had to admit that he was quite enjoying what the attendant had called a "floaty chair". It combined all the benefits of a wheeled chair and made it so he didn't have to abuse his bones anymore. Besides floating around was cool even if he wouldn't say that out loud.
Jeff had just gotten though with a round of medical tests in preparation for being one of Paragon Industries' guinea pigs and had been escorted to a spare meeting room to wait. Hopefully this new treatment would fix his chronic skeletal issues. Then he could pursue his life's goal without the ever-present risk of snapping bones.
The room, like most of Paragon Industries, practically oozed high-tech. The equipment was top quality. The computer and extranet connection Jeff was using to entertain himself while he waited was lightning fast. Even the chairs were advanced technological gadgets and probably far more expensive then would be sane for a chair.
"Not that it's bad," Jeff mused as he leveraged the chair's powers of levitation to fetch another complimentary bottled drink.
The door opened letting in a girl and a man in a doctor's coat. The girl was easy to identify Rebecca Shepard, girl genus and inventor extraordinaire. Her introduction merely pointed out the obvious, "Hi, I'm Rebecca Shepard, or Revy is you prefer, this is Dr. Young, he's in charge of the testing for the Perficere project. And you are Jeff Moreau?"
"That would be me. Pleasure to meet you both."
"Pleasure to meet you as well Mr. Moreau," Dr. Young added.
Pleasantries thus exchanged the Doctor began detailing the test's results mostly covering medical details that Jeff was all to aware of. Dr. Young finally got to the end of his review saying, "All things told we'll probably need a full year of treatment to fix the bone structure. That does however give us a lot of time for the upgrade cycles."
"We have several options, the buff superman look has been very popular." the Doctor continued, switching the screen to show a 3d hologram of Jeff, but with the physique of a well muscled body builder.
"Of course we can go all out," the screen showed even buffer Jeff, "or go for something more moderate," the screen switched again showing a build more suited for an acrobat.
"Reflexes," Jeff injected during a pause, "I don't really care about being super strong or tough, just a bit more durable than I am now. But reflexes, agility, dexterity that stuff has high as you can go."
With a few key presses the screen shifted again. The on-screen Jeff changed, still athletic looking but defiantly built for agility. "Yeah like that."
"Well good then. I'll have the treatment setup for that."
After a long silence Rebecca finally chimed in, "I think you're the first male tester that was only interested in a more moderate level of strength, would you be willing to explain why?"
"Well, yeah... how do I explain this? I guess, I'm a pilot at heart. I fly things, even with a crippled body like mine I can fly things. Sure its only been aircars and a shuttles, but for me this," Jeff said taping his chest, "is for putting this," he tapped his head, "in charge of something that can do far more than any human body can do. So unless you can make me into a ship I'm not too worried about physical strength."
"Makes sense, well see about having some fight sims available for you. Hm... ship people... maybe with the new ANI? Then you'd have to..." Rebecca trailed of lost in thought.
Peak Human treatment now available and in testing. SA testing and approval process estimated to last a year. Though you could use it sooner on volunteers that sign a waiver.
[X] CASIE Implant - 70d10+65 + Overflow 2
70D10+65=>499 = 499/400 Finished! Overflow+99/2=73
"Okay CASIE social analyzer test seven.", you stand in front of the machine that holds the latest edition of the CASIE system and deliver your line, "Do these pants make my butt look big?"
Deflect the question by complementing her appearance.
"Well that far better than when it was advising a tactical retreat, running away in terror, or giving up on life." your dad comments.
"Are you sure this is a vital aspect of the CASIE's social analyzer? I don't think that's a question I'd ever actually ask." you question your father.
"Very important. Having the right answer to questions like that can make or break relationships" your father assures you. You're pretty sure he's having you on, but a test is a test!
CASIE implants now available.
[X] Frigates - 40d10+40 + Overflow 3
40D10+40=>276 + 24 =300/300 Finished! Overflow-24=49.
Turns out that space ships are even more complicated than rocket science. Many hours are spent simulating ships and watching as they explode, their virtual crew dies, or yet another thing breaks.
In the end though you think you've got the technology and engineering behind the so-called "Frigate" class covered.
Of course adding in your advanced technology is the best part. Using an arc-reactor vastly drops the need space for the reactor core. Then by adding repulsors you can go fast! Possibly too fast, after taking reality and relativity into account the ships will probably only go 60LY/day at their peak speed. Still that four times as fast as the fastest Citadels ship can do!
Your advanced materials make the hull and armor plates stronger than ever and if you pay a bit more the Arcane Blur plates make it even better! That and a thousand and one minor tweaks, upgrades and improvements make your frigates the best ever, a fact you have scientifically proven.
There is just one small issue.
"It needs guns."
"I know Conrad." you say.
"Not small MA cannons or GARDIAN lasers or other PD or CIWS stuff, I'm talking big guns. The kind that make it clear that you're on the wrong end and don't want to be there." Conrad continues.
"I know Conrad. It's on the to do list."
"Good. 'Cause, it really needs guns."
[X] Improved Warhead - 0d10+0 + 150 Bonus RP
150/150 Finished!
The arms race between offense and defense continues. This time you're going to make contributions to the offensive side.
Using the shield breaching system's eezo you can generate a shield around the missile protecting it from kinetic point defense. Further improvements allow the missile to evade fire as it homes in on its target. Repulsor tech makes the missile faster and safer to the operator. The improved power cell allows the shield breaching system to work on more powerful shields. Finally the actual warhead is upgraded using MHD tech and a few mass effect tricks to deliver more hurt then the previous Pilum.
"It works much better," a research observes after test firing the new missile against a plate of shielded Lorica armor. The plate has a nice hole in it where the missile broke though. "Anything else?"
"Clearly we need to develop better armor."
"And then better missiles?"
"Yep."
Pilum II is good to go. Unless you want to change the name?
[X] Advanced Neural Interface - 0d10+0 + 400 Bonus RP
400/400 Finished!
The brain has an amazing capacity to adapt. Using VI technology you can have the computer even adapt back to a limited degree. With a deep and complex interface the line between man and machine is blurred. This unity of man and machine provides untold of potential scientifically artistically, socially and in ways you haven't even considered yet.
Of course all that makes the first use of it obvious as far as you're concerned:
"You iz going down hume!"
"Not if I kill you first xeno scum!"
Full VR gaming.
Advanced Neural Interface ready for use. It works even better if you put it in you head.
[X] Advanced ME Theory - 0d10+0 + 400 Bonus RP
400/400 Finished!
The science of dark energy is complicated. Getting stuff recognized and published by the scientific community is at least a little easier. VI technology allow the the production of proper reports with far less effort then you imagine people had to use back in the old days.
You and your theoretical team test the boundaries of mass effect science. Exploring the possibilities of your new technologies and the new tests they allow. Mostly putting ever larger amounts of energy into things. You get several papers published. Your work on multiple core interaction receives some note. However it is "Complex Dark Energy Field Effects" which considers the effects of dark energy-dark energy interaction the that gets the most attention.
Enough attention that you get the opportunity to defend it as a thesis. You and your team prepare well and after the presentation is made, the questions answered and the review board has considered things you are now the owner of a paper that proclaims you a PhD of Mass Effect Theory. The Society of Mass Effect Scientists even sent you a pointy broad-brimmed hat with the words "space wizard" on it and suitably adorned with the core mass effect formulas.
You now have a PhD, also you ME tech works a bit better.
[X] Optical Computing 0d10 + Overflow 4
49/800 Work In Progress
The idea to use eezo to increase the speed of optical computing isn't exactly original, but the people who know the tricks aren't telling. You've considered the problem and made some preliminary tests, but other things have consumed your time.
Banked: 0
Points lost to overflow 72
Personal Actions
[X] Look into starting a Private Military Company.
The main barrier to starting a PMC is the paperwork apparently. You can see why so may run themselves out of the Terminus. That said any sane government is going to want some accountability for any force running around with significant firepower.
Who do you want to get your PMC license from?
[ ] Systems Alliance (1.5 million in total fees)
[ ] Citadel (1 million in fees)
[ ] The Terminus (Free because there is no license!)
[ ] Don't start a PMC
PMC Name?
[ ] (Write in)
[X] Headhunt a research hero (this will not necessarily come into fruition immediately).
-[x] Search for someone with experience in Shielding/Barrier technology, in hopes that we might be able to design shields that can protect against DEWs.
Finding the right kind of people is hard. You need people with that extra bit of capacity. The right intellect, the right mind-set and that somewhat "magical" spark of creativity. So many of them are already employed or involved with their own things and even then you have to separate out the mad men and charlatans from the visionaries.
Humanity is still trying to develop their technology and while at times they can find new avenues that others missed, the other races of the galaxy have far more experience. You best success comes from sources outside the SA:
Gala Da'van is a 320 year old asari scientist that is an expert in electromagnetism as well as plasma. She has some ideas that you think that combined with the options your technology allows could produce new shielding technologies.
Jenzel Fend nar Rayya is a 23 year old male quarian that has done a fair amount of work on what he calls "Impregnated Dark Energy Fields". Or in simpler terms sticking things into mass effect fields and then seeing what that does.
Gaver Dor is a rare Krogan scientist that specializes in high strength mass effect fields. You found out about him by chance when he replied to one of your papers on mass effect theory. He has several interesting ideas on mass effect shielding that would require more power then would be reasonable conventionally.
They all seem like people who could benefit Paragon Industries and from what you can tell are not affiliated with anyone hostile to you.
Who will you pursue? (Choose one)
[ ] Gala Da'van
[ ] Jenzel Fend nar Rayya
[ ] Gaver Dor
[ ] No one
[X] Clean break. Continue as if nothing has changed until he actually ships out.
-[X] But keep in touch and try to stay friends. You're honestly looking forward to hearing stories about his experiences in bootcamp.
"We remember to write, or call or.. whatever." You say, a little unsure of exactly what to say. Your going to miss Brian. He was... a different preservative. In many ways he is just another guy, but he... He could work with you socially. The differences between the two of you socially, mentally, economically... just never became a really noticeable issue. Considering your limited pool of friends that's kinda rare.
However, he has his plans and you have yours. So today you bid him goodbye as he heads out to join the Systems Alliance's armed forces. It far to calm a day to mark such a change. The sky is blue and empty. Isn't is supposed to rain or something?
"Yeah I will." he says, "And you, don't forget to get out and live a little. There's more to life than your tinkering. I know with me gone you'll be missing one of your convenient reminders to get out a bit more."
"Yeah, yeah" you roll your eyes, "Well good luck then, Brian."
"Hey I got some advance training with an N5 that should help right?" he says with a grin.
"Hopefully." you smile back.
"Anyway, goodbye Revy," Brian says, before you exchange a final hug and kiss.
"Goodbye, Brian."
You watch as he boards the shuttle and follow the path of the shuttle up into the clear sky. The weight of half-formed tears in you eyes. Far too simple a day. You bury you more egotistical self's suggestions for weather control technology, now is not the time for that. Besides a few tears that's kind of like a few rain drops isn't it?
You turn to leave after the shuttle is out of sight. Time to distract yourself with some science.
A few days later you get a brief note from Brian about the trials and tribulations of boot camp. Apparently he is "a small step above incompetent" in the eyes of the drill sergeant. Your glad he's doing well.
Selected News For 2173-Q2
Systems Alliance Steps Up Anti-piracy Campaign
The Systems Alliance's armed forces have increased again the amount of men and material dedicated to fighting piracy. In addition to several cruiser flotillas, several units of soldiers armed with Legionary armor have been deployed. Some reports also indicate that a new combat vehicle has been deployed.
Admiral Elen Cuerller of the third fleet had this to say, "Pirate and slavers are, if I may twist an old phrase, 'hostis sapientiae generis,' that is enemies of all thinking beings. Destroying them is a service to civilization as a whole. However we must consider the risks to our soldiers in pursuit of such enemies. Recent technological advances have made the risks much lower allowing the armed forces to deal with such enemies more readily. In addition a revaluation of our strategy against pirates and their ilk has determined that a more aggressive stance will produce better results."
Only time will tell how successful this new strategy will be. However, the raid at Ki-til Freeport has shown....
In the Spotlight with Tim Vargan, interviewing Mr. Dallon of the Sirta Foundation
"Obviously the near universal access to gene modding for the next generation is a big deal Mr. Dallon. However are there any aspects you would like to highlight?" Tim Vargan says to his guest seated across from him at a round table.
"While several benefits are obvious, I think its also worth considering what we managed to avoid by making the technology readily available. In twenty to thirty year we were looking at a possible 'genetic gap' as I've heard it called. Where on average the rich had an advantage over those less fortunate due to gene modding. We are fortunate that Paragon Industries developed this technology and choose to distribute it so cheaply. I believe it has prevented such a major social divide. While there may be some that don't choose to use the technology, many of the historical greats didn't need gene modding to be great. Even with gene modding, being great still takes work."
"An insightful point Mr Dallon, there have been some rumors about a biotic adaption gene..."
Salarian Technological Firm Patents New "Thermal Superconductor"
"Technology derived from old research into possible materials used in Mass Relay and Citadel hulls. New breakthroughs combined with large amounts of energy from new arc-reactor technology allows for possible mass production." said a company representative.
The company expects to see the technology deployed to improve many cooling systems and radiators as well as investigating possible applications as an armor material.
Nashan Stellar Dynamics Scandal
Nashan Sellar Dynamics a company that manufactures starship parts,was implicated today in a kickback scandal with high ranking members of the Terra Firma party. Several people have begun to call for the resignation of Inez Simmons the partly leader.
Should the accusations prove true Nashan Stellar Dynamic will be facing large fines and legal fees...
Ms. Shepard,
It may be a little opportunistic, but with Nashan selling off some of their holdings we have an opportunity to acquire something. Nashan's stuff is high quality so I imagine it'd be worth something in the new star ship development plans. Chances are well only be able to grab some product production rights or some technological information. On the other hand the political mess we'd be going near isn't pretty.
Let me know if we want to get involved.
Systems Alliance Steps Up Anti-piracy Campaign
The Systems Alliance's armed forces have increased again the amount of men and material dedicated to fighting piracy. In addition to several cruiser flotillas, several units of soldiers armed with Legionary armor have been deployed. Some reports also indicate that a new combat vehicle has been deployed.
Admiral Elen Cuerller of the third fleet had this to say, "Pirate and slavers are, if I may twist an old phrase, 'hostis sapientiae generis,' that is enemies of all thinking beings. Destroying them is a service to civilization as a whole. However we must consider the risks to our soldiers in pursuit of such enemies. Recent technological advances have made the risks much lower allowing the armed forces to deal with such enemies more readily. In addition a revaluation of our strategy against pirates and their ilk has determined that a more aggressive stance will produce better results."
Only time will tell how successful this new strategy will be. However, the raid at Ki-til Freeport has shown....
In the Spotlight with Tim Vargan, interviewing Mr. Dallon of the Sirta Foundation
"Obviously the near universal access to gene modding for the next generation is a big deal Mr. Dallon. However are there any aspects you would like to highlight?" Tim Vargan says to his guest seated across from him at a round table.
"While several benefits are obvious, I think its also worth considering what we managed to avoid by making the technology readily available. In twenty to thirty year we were looking at a possible 'genetic gap' as I've heard it called. Where on average the rich had an advantage over those less fortunate due to gene modding. We are fortunate that Paragon Industries developed this technology and choose to distribute it so cheaply. I believe it has prevented such a major social divide. While there may be some that don't choose to use the technology, many of the historical greats didn't need gene modding to be great. Even with gene modding, being great still takes work."
"An insightful point Mr Dallon, there have been some rumors about a biotic adaption gene..."
Salarian Technological Firm Patents New "Thermal Superconductor"
"Technology derived from old research into possible materials used in Mass Relay and Citadel hulls. New breakthroughs combined with large amounts of energy from new arc-reactor technology allows for possible mass production." said a company representative.
The company expects to see the technology deployed to improve many cooling systems and radiators as well as investigating possible applications as an armor material.
Nashan Stellar Dynamics Scandal
Nashan Sellar Dynamics a company that manufactures starship parts,was implicated today in a kickback scandal with high ranking members of the Terra Firma party. Several people have begun to call for the resignation of Inez Simmons the partly leader.
Should the accusations prove true Nashan Stellar Dynamic will be facing large fines and legal fees...
Ms. Shepard,
It may be a little opportunistic, but with Nashan selling off some of their holdings we have an opportunity to acquire something. Nashan's stuff is high quality so I imagine it'd be worth something in the new star ship development plans. Chances are well only be able to grab some product production rights or some technological information. On the other hand the political mess we'd be going near isn't pretty.
Let me know if we want to get involved.
Lindsey Bradley, Vice President of Sales
Will you try to acquire anything? (Choose one)
[ ] Starship parts (200 million credits, 100 points to next level of starship tech, Bradley now gets 265,000 per Production)
[ ] Ship weapons components (400 million credits, 200 points to next level of MAC tech, Bradley now gets 260,000 per Production)
[ ] Nothing
Political Briefing 2173-Q2:
From Laurence Freeman:
Needless to say you and Paragon Industries have attracted more than a little attention on the galactic scale here is the more immediately relevant material.
Systems Alliance
For the Systems Alliance as a whole you're the magic golden girl. You single-handedly fought of a bunch of slavers. You've advanced human technology forward several centuries. In short, you're a famous celebrity. Expect people to pay attention to the things you say and do. You and Paragon Industries have an excellent reputation in the Alliance.
Systems Alliance Military
You're the golden goose that lays the golden eggs. You've given them equipment that is the envy of races that have been in space since before our primary calendar starts. You have more than a little influence with the armed forces.
Terra Firma Party
Expanding arc-reactor sales to the Citadel hasn't made any friend here. However they're a little distracted by the scandal with Nashan.
Mindoir
You're the local hero and control the most locally powerful corporation. Of note here is the possible transition of Mindoir into a formal member state of the Systems Alliance. Paragon Industries' growth is one of the contributing factors.
Citadel Space
In general we have a good reputation as inventors an innovators. Our choice to sell arc-reactors to the general Citadel market has won us some good will. There have been some questions regarding the origin of arc-reactor technology and if humanity is hiding Prothean technology or artifacts. However, this is fairly minor right now. If we continue releasing technology at the rate we have such questions may become more prevalent.
Asari Republics
The tone in the Asari Republics regarding you and Paragon industries is currently cautious. Some think things will turn out well. Others are just waiting for things to blow up. For the most part the Republics are taking the traditional Asari wait and see approach.
Turian Hierarchy
The Turian Hierarchy seems to like us a great deal. The only complaint they seem to hold is that Paragon Industries is a Systems Alliance company nor a Turian one. They have ordered a fair number of arc-reactors and I'd expect them to be entering a major military upgrading cycle.
Salarian Union
The Salarian Union is used to holding a strong technological edge. Several Salarian companies have bought arc-reactors so that they can determine how to use the technology. More pessimistically the STG is no doubt doing its best to get its hands on a piece of every bit of our tech they can.
Terminus
The Systems Alliance is for good or ill on the Citadel side of the Terminus-Citadel line. So by default we're either "the enemy" or at least "those foreigners". That said for most of the Terminus we're sort of irreverent to them for now.
Batarian Hegmoney
They hate humanity and they hate you and Paragon Industries by extension. Tensions have been getting worse between them and the Systems Alliance. Due in no small part to the Systems Alliance's increased activity in the Terminus and Attican Traverse. Many analysts are expecting a major conflict in the area in five years or so.
Pirate/Slaver Gangs
The Pirates and Slavers of the Terminus are well aware of who has armed the Systems Alliance with the new weapons that are devastating them. Hostilities between the Systems Alliance and these faction are growing and will no doubt come to a head before to long.
That's an overview of the major factions and groups relevant to us right now. If I haven't mentioned a group specifically they are probably in line with the majority opinion of the group section they fall under. If you need details or information on a faction I haven't mentioned let me know.
[ ] Starship parts (200 million credits, 100 points to next level of starship tech, Bradley now gets 265,000 per Production)
[ ] Ship weapons components (400 million credits, 200 points to next level of MAC tech, Bradley now gets 260,000 per Production)
[ ] Nothing
Political Briefing 2173-Q2:
From Laurence Freeman:
Needless to say you and Paragon Industries have attracted more than a little attention on the galactic scale here is the more immediately relevant material.
Systems Alliance
For the Systems Alliance as a whole you're the magic golden girl. You single-handedly fought of a bunch of slavers. You've advanced human technology forward several centuries. In short, you're a famous celebrity. Expect people to pay attention to the things you say and do. You and Paragon Industries have an excellent reputation in the Alliance.
Systems Alliance Military
You're the golden goose that lays the golden eggs. You've given them equipment that is the envy of races that have been in space since before our primary calendar starts. You have more than a little influence with the armed forces.
Terra Firma Party
Expanding arc-reactor sales to the Citadel hasn't made any friend here. However they're a little distracted by the scandal with Nashan.
Mindoir
You're the local hero and control the most locally powerful corporation. Of note here is the possible transition of Mindoir into a formal member state of the Systems Alliance. Paragon Industries' growth is one of the contributing factors.
Citadel Space
In general we have a good reputation as inventors an innovators. Our choice to sell arc-reactors to the general Citadel market has won us some good will. There have been some questions regarding the origin of arc-reactor technology and if humanity is hiding Prothean technology or artifacts. However, this is fairly minor right now. If we continue releasing technology at the rate we have such questions may become more prevalent.
Asari Republics
The tone in the Asari Republics regarding you and Paragon industries is currently cautious. Some think things will turn out well. Others are just waiting for things to blow up. For the most part the Republics are taking the traditional Asari wait and see approach.
Turian Hierarchy
The Turian Hierarchy seems to like us a great deal. The only complaint they seem to hold is that Paragon Industries is a Systems Alliance company nor a Turian one. They have ordered a fair number of arc-reactors and I'd expect them to be entering a major military upgrading cycle.
Salarian Union
The Salarian Union is used to holding a strong technological edge. Several Salarian companies have bought arc-reactors so that they can determine how to use the technology. More pessimistically the STG is no doubt doing its best to get its hands on a piece of every bit of our tech they can.
Terminus
The Systems Alliance is for good or ill on the Citadel side of the Terminus-Citadel line. So by default we're either "the enemy" or at least "those foreigners". That said for most of the Terminus we're sort of irreverent to them for now.
Batarian Hegmoney
They hate humanity and they hate you and Paragon Industries by extension. Tensions have been getting worse between them and the Systems Alliance. Due in no small part to the Systems Alliance's increased activity in the Terminus and Attican Traverse. Many analysts are expecting a major conflict in the area in five years or so.
Pirate/Slaver Gangs
The Pirates and Slavers of the Terminus are well aware of who has armed the Systems Alliance with the new weapons that are devastating them. Hostilities between the Systems Alliance and these faction are growing and will no doubt come to a head before to long.
That's an overview of the major factions and groups relevant to us right now. If I haven't mentioned a group specifically they are probably in line with the majority opinion of the group section they fall under. If you need details or information on a faction I haven't mentioned let me know.
Additional Items for 2173-Q2
[X] Administer
[X] Be closed (and all willing personnel moved to the planned Elysium expansion)
-[X] Keep them
[X] All be kept after passing back ground checks and if they are willing to move if need. (Good PR, cost 750k if moved)
You begin the process of moving the former Shifting Developments personnel over to Elysium. Moving people isn't the fastest thing in the world, but they'll get there and be ready to work one they actually have a place to work.
"Captan Hwan, good to hear from you again." you say greeting the holoprojection of your new employee.
"Ms. Shepard, I've been looking into possible sites for the Elysium expansion" he says, getting down to business.
"Anything interesting?" you ask.
"Two sites other than the capital city stand out, near the city there is a large amount of land for sale that we could get cheap. It's very flat and open. Farther out there is a large granite out cropping. Very solid and large enough that we could build a base into it. We could take advantage of that if we were worried about pirate raids," he says, "The military engineer in me likes the idea of such a base if it's done right"
"Won't help much against a dedicated attack though, would it?" you consider.
"Not much does ma'am. If the guy that has the orbitals whats you dead you tend to die if you can't hide. Even then that might not help."
"Any other issues?"
"Its far out so we'll probably have to construct additional facilities and maybe some housing. Employees might not be as happy if their job is out in the middle of nowhere as well."
"I'll take that into consideration then"
Do you want to grab one of the sites?
[ ] Underground base is go! (Security bonus, additional costs 20 million)
[ ] Big site (+1 factory slot)
[ ] Nah, stay in/near the capital
[ ] Actually let's not expand to Elysium.
[X] Nova Mark
Nova Mark is ecstatic about getting to interview you. They'd be willing to do just about any type of interview what kind do you want to do? Below are some of the question and topics, what are your answers? If there's something you think you should mention you could add that in, recall though that Nova Mark's focus is technology and popular science. So they're more interested in new technologies and how they effects things.
What type of interview? (You can if you wish review any type of interview before publication.)
[ ] Video
[ ] Audio
[ ] Text
Where will you do the interview?
[ ] Over the extranet
[ ] At the Paragon Industries complex
[ ] At your home
What got you into science and engineering in the first place?
[ ] Write-in
Where did the idea for the Legionary armor come from?
[ ] Write-in
What can you tell us about the arc-reactor (and/or other PI technologies)?
[ ] Keep it vague.
[ ] Basic layman's explanation
[ ] Basic technical details.
What do you think the effects of the arc-reactor will be on society?
[ ] Write-in
And on the military?
[ ] Write-in
What should we expect to see next from Paragon Industries?
[ ] Write-in
-[ ] Show of something? (Write in)
Who's you favorite historical scientist?
[ ] Write-in
[x] Talk to someone. (Who?)
-[X] Mom or dad - they are there, they are your closest people, you can talk to them
-[X] A professional - finding a good one takes time, after all, even with your resources
--[X] Contact your alliance contacts and ask for recommendation for a therapist. N7 program is bound to have them, and their security is good too
---[X] Still have your people check anyone proposed and look for one independently
1D100+60=>83
With Dad:
"Hmm, it' s all kinda complicated isn't it? Each person is going to be a bit different. Ironically the ideal would be not thinking about things you can't change. But at the same time that's a tall order. So, when you can't do something focus on what you can do. Don't lockup on trying to solve something you have no power over. The Alliance's unofficial official policy for soldiers during a drop is to have them sing something. It's a distraction and helps morale. It'd be bad for dropping troops to fixate on the fact that they are a good AA weapon shot away from death." your dad muses as he fiddles at a workbench. You sit near by listening.
"As for afterwards? Do something productive, something you can look at and say, 'I did that'. Me? I like to tinker. Might work for you too seeing what we have in common." he says, "Hand me that wire over there, the number three red would you?"
You pick up the coil of wire and pass it over to your dad, "Thanks" he grabs the wire from you hand, "Want to join in? I'm making a new floating mag-light"
With Mom:
"For me it has helped to have a clear understanding of things I can do and what I can't. I can't fight warships, therefore I should focus on tending to things in the ship I can do. Or preparing for when things change and there is something useful to do. I'm also learned to trust in others, my life is in the hands of someone else. Soldiers can pick up a lot of superstitions, deluding themselves into thinking some minor thing they're doing can magically 'help'." Your mom sits on the other side of the kitchen table mug of coffee in hand.
Your mom's train of thought shifts, her voice dulling, "I saw you focusing on the fight and starting to lockup... I'm... sorry, I..."
You grab your mom's free hand, "Hey it's not your fault. I think fast. I'd hyper focused a few seconds after the first shots hit. Besides it's not like any of us thought that we'd really need to prepare for that sort of thing. Nor do I have any serious military training"
"Thanks Revy." she says with a smile, "I'm glad you're dealing with this is such a mature fashion. I suppose now we do know to prepare. I'd advise some form of training. Your fancy brain machines might be able to VR something."
"I think I could do that."
With: Dr. Kopitar:
"I think Revy that over the last few weeks we have established a good working solution for your difficulties. They are not resolved fully, but what we have done has produced results and in time will produce full closure. Would you agree?" Dr. Kopitar asks, from his chair.
"Yeah, I've got things I can do. I've got people I can trust. Especially people who can tell me to chill if I'm going too far. Brian leaving cut that number down a bit, but I've still got people. I can only imagine what I'd end up like if I didn't." You say, leaning back into the couch in Dr. Kopitar's office, "Worst thing is the occasional nightmare. It makes my mad scientist side, if I may anthropomorphize a bit, go, 'hey you can totally fix your brain so that doesn't happen any more'. Not sure that's the best idea."
"As we've discussed before, I recommend either lucid dreaming practice or meditation. You may find a tie-in to your biotic training." Dr. Kopitar advises.
"It's finding the time for that which is the real challenge."
[X] Launch an investigation
-[X] 1 million
--[X] More if interesting results, or hints of such results surface
You investigative team is hard pressed to find much of anything, even looking at known relay transits yields no results. However, there is one lead:
Greetings Rebecca Shepard,
In exchange for 500 million credits I can give you access to information that would be most useful for your investigation. If you are interested deposit the credits in the escrow account whose details are attached.
Ribbon, agent of the Shadow Broker
What will you do?
[ ] Pay (500 million credits)
[ ] Keep investigating without the information
-[ ] How much will you spend?
[ ] Stop investigating
Much Ado about Arc-reactors
Several groups have approached Paragon Industries about buying arc-reactors outside the standard market sales. First off is Eldfell-Ashland Energy who our are interested in buying a few larger arc-reactors for use in their power facilities. Eldfell-Ashland Energy is a major company and has a large share of the energy market, particularly in fusion power. This is most likely an attempt to adapt to the presence of arc-reactor technology and the possible loss of market share they face.
The Post-Scarcity Society, a multi-racial group that does charitable work and strives to reduce scarcity as much as possible. They take a fairly long view in their goals and a the Citadel's premier charitable group. Some of their more recent work has been to improve the situation on Earth. They would also like to acquire a few larger arc-reactors. They're status as a recognized charitable group also means that any donations of materials could be credited against taxes. Any arc-reactors we sell to them could be counted against the Citadel requirements. Fortunately we included a substitution clause that allows us to substitute one larger arc-reactor for several smaller ones.
Finally the Turian Hierarchy would like to negotiate a discount on several large orders of arc-reactors. These could also be counted against the Citadel requirements. They are looking to buy at least 10,000 arc-reactors per quarter for the next year and half, possibly more.
What shall we do?
[ ] Sell a few large arc-reactors to Eldfell-Ashland Energy
-[ ] How many, in what power and at what price?
[ ] Sell/Donate to The Post Scarcity Society
-[ ] Donate (How many of what power?)
-[ ] Don't Donate
[ ] Give the Turian Hierarchy a discount on their bulk order(s)
-[ ] How Much?
[ ]None of the above
Prothean Artifact
"Liara! How are things going? No more trouble I hope." You say greeting your distant friend.
"We are doing fine Revy. We've reached the Prothean ruins proper. It will take maybe six months all told to get the preliminary work done? How long it will take after that depends on what we find." Liara says with her usual exuberance, "However as I said before we managed to find an artifact that is completely intact. We're pretty sure its a technological artifact based on our scans, though it could be a really strange art piece I suppose... Anyway if you can spare some time could you or some of your researchers look over the scans?"
"Wouldn't it be easier to send it to us?" you ask.
"There are some legal complexities that make that a little more annoying than it would seem at first. If you think it would help after looking the scans I'll have it delivered, but dealing with the scans is far easier." Liara answers, "The laws can be annoying at times, but they help protect the artifacts."
"I'll take a look then if I get the chance then." you say.
[ ] Liara's Prothean Artifact [100]: Liara has scans of an artifact that she'd like you to look at. The actual artifact is a small 30cm x 20cm x 2cm slab seemingly made from a single block of an unknown material. One side is completely flat while the other has a few millimeter deep channels in it as most Prothean technological devices do. Liara believes it may be a Prothean data slate. (Available until 2173-Q4, results unknown)
Actions for 2173-Q3:
Company Actions:
[ ] Build Things
-[ ] What and were
[ ] Produce items for in house use
[ ] Write-in
Spare Time (pick two)
[ ] Train with Mom
[ ] Train Biotics
[ ] Practice piloting (Aircar)
[ ] Practice Train something else? (Write-in)
[ ] Work on a College degree via the extranet.
-[ ] Specify subject.
[ ] Explore Landing.
[ ] Headhunt a research hero (this will not necessarily come into fruition immediately).
-[ ] Specify area of expertise.
[ ] Spend time with family
[ ] Install Wetwear
-[ ] What?
[ ] Begin peak human treatment (May be chosen twice needs four uses of spare time to finish a full upgrade)
- [ ] What qualities to you want to increase and to what level?
[ ] Rapid Peak human treatment (Requires both spare time slots and removes research dice for a quarter, full upgrade done in a quarter)
[ ] Write-in
Research!
Revy: 4x 10d10+5
Labs: 4x 10d10+10
Research Teams: 12x 10d10+20
Conrad: 1x 10d10+15
Basic Research: 8x +10 (Must be applied to a 10d10, one application per 10d10)
Total: 210d10+395, average: 1550
[ ] Medium Armor [400]: The early tanks were nothing more than cars with a lot of steel plating stuck to them, the modern armor is a more refined beast, and a beast that would benefit more than a little from your careful touch and keen intellect.
[ ] 5 Meter Mech [400]: You have an old, washed-out shirt that used to belong to your father with the inscription "Giant robots. Because life isn't dangerous enough." Now, you will have them.
[ ] Superalloys [800]: Your new ceramic armor plating was developed to be the best possible without emptying your R&D budget and beggaring your clients. However, as your company grows, the former ceases to be a concern and you can let your mind play wild with all the elements known to Sentience.
[ ] Mk II Suit [500]: Building your armor in easily replaceable components made from your advanced materials lets you make it so much stronger than the MK 1.5 could ever be. It also lets Cortana suit you up, which looks awesome. Adding repulsors in the hands and feet gives you hitherto unimagined maneuverability. (I. Am. Iron. Man! [Well, ceramic man, but the other thing sounds better!])
[ ] AI Licensing Preparation [800]: The Galaxy has not had a particularly pleasant history of interactions with AIs, most notably the story of the Geth is perhaps one of the most ominous tales told in Council Space. Learning how to shut down computers is an essential step to take before any AI research can be started. (Develop EMP and electronic warfare suites.)
[ ] Adrenal Implant [400]: Almost everyone has an anecdote about a mother lifting a car to get to their child, or a man pulling a tree out of the ground to bash in an assailant's head. Adrenaline's power to make people stronger and faster is well documented, and many people have wished it were possible to stimulate adrenalin production safely. Well, now it is. (The implant makes the user faster and stronger for a limited time. Overuse is bad for your health.)
[ ] Miniaturized Energy Weapons [400]: A lot of things go into making a laser, but people have made them for literally centuries, so there are few great mysteries left. The major problem in making smaller lasers is containing the energy. Fortunately, you have some knowledge in designing new materials, and now you'll be making cavities and resonators that will make your competitors weep. (What it says on the tin.)
[ ] Gigawatt Range Lasers [400]: Frankly, you're a little worried about increasing the power output of your laser weaponry by several orders of magnitude. And it's certainly not something you should put on a ground-based vehicle, atmospheres are flammable after all, but as a wise man said: "Mad Science" means never stopping to ask "what's the worst thing that could happen?". (Also what it says on the tin.)
[ ] Flawless black boxing/FRM [3200]: By riddling your technology with superfluous wiring and casing, adding minute self-destructive devises, and shielding it all from all known forms of non-intrusive tomography, you have been able to keep your rivals (and most governments) guessing as to how it is your devices work. Now, you start getting serious about secrecy. (Makes reverse engineering your technology practically impossible to any of the Citadel species.)
Now available
[ ] Plug and Play Skills (800): Want to learn Kung Fu? Here's a chip to slot into your brain. So long as the chip is installed you know what the chip knows once you get used to the new skills. It can also function as a teacher. Only challenge can be finding some one to record the skills from.
[ ] Advanced Prostetics (800): Once you've got wires in your brain giving you robo limbs is easy! We can make them almost in distinguishable from your normal limbs. Or even better. Allows just about every limb type prosthetic imaginable.
[ ] Light Cruisers (<500m) [600]: The increased size of the cruiser class makes things even more complicated. In addition the cruiser class of vessels is usually optimized for different things than fighters or frigate meaning you have to reconsider several design choices.
[ ] Eternal Youth [1600]: Death from "old age" is an issue many races have to face. Humanity has been slowly increasing the expected life span as new technologies allow damaged organs and parts to be replaced. However, the body was young once and if one could reset the clock and regenerate what is damaged old age will not be able to claim a single human life again. The Krogan and Asari prove that it can be done biologically. (Produces a treatment that will make the recipient immune to aging).
[ ] Advanced Xenobiology [800]: You've solved many issue for humanity, now it time to consider how to spread the benefits to other races, as well as considering any unique issue they may have. (Allows the application of human biotech to other races.)
[ ] Extremis (Locked) [1600]: Super nanite enhanced super people, what's not to love? Integrates flesh and machine on a fundamental level applying the best of your technology. May have strange side effects that look kind of like super power depending on the programming. Also Illegal.
[ ] Anti-starship Torpedoes [400]: Warships are big and tough, in addition the environment of space means that one must reconsider the design of certain warheads. All that said it shouldn't be too hard to develop a functional anti-starship weapon. (Develop missiles meant for use against starships as well as a directed plasma burst warhead.)
[ ] Hyper Modularity [400]: Allows the development of parts that can be rapidly substituted for one another or re-arranged. Time depends on the scale of the objects. While not the rapid second or shorter transformations seen in some media the minutes to hours scale time frames are still useful.
[ ] Generation II Arc-Reactor [400]: MORE POWER! Well four times as much. And a ten times that one shot burst mode for about a minute. Mind that basically ruins the palladium core and requires the device to be restarted with only a few days use left. Of course you could just put more palladium into it.
[ ] Total Internal Reflection Systems [1600]: Mass effect fields refract light, thus a strong enough field will produce total internal reflection. Used properly a multi-layered field could be used to produce a double TIR effect making the surrounded object invisible. Stealth! In Space! On the other hand you should probably experiment with this in space. (Allows TIR stealth as well as TIR shields that will reduce laser damage, Requires a deep space lab).
[ ] Quantum Entanglement Communications [1600]: Getting functional FTL data transmission from quantum entanglement isn't easy. This technology has been in development for ages by the galactic community. But it has always been far too complicated and expensive to be useful. However, you might be able to improve on it.
[ ] Multi-core Eezo Systems [800]: Using multiple cores in a ship or other system presents a way to get around the limitations of discharge. Using multiple large cores you could cycle a "full" one out and slowly bleed the charge out while another takes over. Or you could have several smaller cores that don't discharge dangerous amounts of energy when they overload. Beyond that multiple cores allow for several interesting future applications. (Ships equipped with these systems cost more but do not have drive charge limitations)
[ ] Tractor Beams [800]: A relatively simple application of mass effect technology applied to a larger scale. The trick is to make it work at a useful range and cheap enough that its feasible to deploy. (What It says on the tin.)
[ ] Comm Buoy Construction [1600]: Barring a truly incredible leap in other communication technologies Comm Buoys are the best way to get large amounts of data around with low response time. The expensive but critical devices allow the galactic extranet to function and hold the galactic community together. They also are a stepping stone toward making one's own Mass Relays. (Requires a deep space lab)
[ ] Anti-matter Production [1600]: Anti-matter is a controlled substance on the galactic scale. It is also one of the primary warship "fuels", making it quite valuable. On the other hand It makes for some nasty bombs. Anti-matter takes a fair amount of power to make and arc-reactor technology provides that power. (Allows the creation of anti-matter production plants)
[ ] Gravitational Wave Detectors [800]: One of these could have a great deal of value in space if it had long range and could be made small enough. Allowing vessels surrounded by a TIR field to see outside easily and also allowing the detection of such vessels. Not to mention the scientific potential.
[ ] Very Large Space Stations [1600]: People of all races have been proposing giant space stations for ages. Why not develop and build one? They're not quite citadel sized, but they're far bigger then any race would normally build. (What it says on the tin)
[ ] Basic Vehicle Scale Weapon Mods [200]: Weapon mods are been used by infantry to fine tune their guns for the task at had. You can do the same for vehicles scale weapons.
[ ] Small Ship Scale Mods [800]: Applying weapon mod technology to starship scale weapons should provide several advantages to the owners of such technology. Mind you'd need to upgrade the guns to use the tech. It also wouldn't be particularly fast to swap the mods out without specialized support systems (Allows the production of Starship Ammo/Weapon Mods and Modable Mass Accelerators)
[ ] Advanced Ammo Mods [600]: Some ammo mods are simple, others are rather complex. Items like warp ammo and cryo ammo aren't simple so applying them to larger weapons will take some more work. Also upgrades the basic ammo mods.
[ ] 200m MAC [200]: Interestingly making larger linear accelerators is a fair bit more complicated than just making them longer, magnetic saturation, feedback and interference are all issues that must be considered. In addition the tech could do with some updating to handle recent technological advances.
[ ] Optical Computing [49/800]: If you can commute with light and can make light go faster than you can compute really really fast right? The basic idea is sound, but the precision timing of computational components means that you need to make sure you don't screw the timing up. Also being able to make the speed dynamically adjust would be useful.
[ ] Liara's Prothean Artifact [100]: Liara has scans of an artifact that she'd like you to look at. The actual artifact is a small 30cm x 20cm x 2cm slab seemingly made from a single block of an unknown material. One side is completely flat while the other has a few millimeter deep channels in it as most Prothean technological devices do. Liara believes it may be a Prothean data slate. (Available until 2173-Q4, results unknown)
Conrad's Special Projects
[ ] The invisible man [100/400]: The stealth system that was installed in the prototype the Berkeley students presented at the power armor conference was not good enough to fool Alliance security, but then it was Conrad piloting the thing. While working on your advanced ceramic, you've had some ideas of your own on how to incorporate digital camouflage at a fundamental level. (Make near-invisible versions of your vehicles. Sound, thermal and radar detection will still be issues, but issues exist to be solved!)
[ ] The black fucking gun [400]: Conrad knows pretty much how the "Black Hole Gun, but not really" that they entered into the competition works. It does, however, have more than a few safety issues, and you really don't want a gun that will make General Alexander call you and ask what the hell happened to his entire right flank. The core idea is good, but the problem is that Conrad, smart though he is, is very bad at adapting his designs to the constraints posed by reality. (Build the M-490 Blackstorm, though you get to pick a new name for it if you'd like.)
[ ] Time is an illusion [???]: Have Conrad and his team continue the work he started in his dissertation. Time manipulation of any kind would be pretty awesome, but this is as bleeding edge as research gets, and you have no idea what's on the other side, or how far away it is. (This may or may not give you limited control over time. It may or may not have other prerequisite techs.)
[ ] 5 Meter Mech [400]: You have an old, washed-out shirt that used to belong to your father with the inscription "Giant robots. Because life isn't dangerous enough." Now, you will have them.
[ ] Superalloys [800]: Your new ceramic armor plating was developed to be the best possible without emptying your R&D budget and beggaring your clients. However, as your company grows, the former ceases to be a concern and you can let your mind play wild with all the elements known to Sentience.
[ ] Mk II Suit [500]: Building your armor in easily replaceable components made from your advanced materials lets you make it so much stronger than the MK 1.5 could ever be. It also lets Cortana suit you up, which looks awesome. Adding repulsors in the hands and feet gives you hitherto unimagined maneuverability. (I. Am. Iron. Man! [Well, ceramic man, but the other thing sounds better!])
[ ] AI Licensing Preparation [800]: The Galaxy has not had a particularly pleasant history of interactions with AIs, most notably the story of the Geth is perhaps one of the most ominous tales told in Council Space. Learning how to shut down computers is an essential step to take before any AI research can be started. (Develop EMP and electronic warfare suites.)
[ ] Adrenal Implant [400]: Almost everyone has an anecdote about a mother lifting a car to get to their child, or a man pulling a tree out of the ground to bash in an assailant's head. Adrenaline's power to make people stronger and faster is well documented, and many people have wished it were possible to stimulate adrenalin production safely. Well, now it is. (The implant makes the user faster and stronger for a limited time. Overuse is bad for your health.)
[ ] Miniaturized Energy Weapons [400]: A lot of things go into making a laser, but people have made them for literally centuries, so there are few great mysteries left. The major problem in making smaller lasers is containing the energy. Fortunately, you have some knowledge in designing new materials, and now you'll be making cavities and resonators that will make your competitors weep. (What it says on the tin.)
[ ] Gigawatt Range Lasers [400]: Frankly, you're a little worried about increasing the power output of your laser weaponry by several orders of magnitude. And it's certainly not something you should put on a ground-based vehicle, atmospheres are flammable after all, but as a wise man said: "Mad Science" means never stopping to ask "what's the worst thing that could happen?". (Also what it says on the tin.)
[ ] Flawless black boxing/FRM [3200]: By riddling your technology with superfluous wiring and casing, adding minute self-destructive devises, and shielding it all from all known forms of non-intrusive tomography, you have been able to keep your rivals (and most governments) guessing as to how it is your devices work. Now, you start getting serious about secrecy. (Makes reverse engineering your technology practically impossible to any of the Citadel species.)
Now available
[ ] Plug and Play Skills (800): Want to learn Kung Fu? Here's a chip to slot into your brain. So long as the chip is installed you know what the chip knows once you get used to the new skills. It can also function as a teacher. Only challenge can be finding some one to record the skills from.
[ ] Advanced Prostetics (800): Once you've got wires in your brain giving you robo limbs is easy! We can make them almost in distinguishable from your normal limbs. Or even better. Allows just about every limb type prosthetic imaginable.
[ ] Light Cruisers (<500m) [600]: The increased size of the cruiser class makes things even more complicated. In addition the cruiser class of vessels is usually optimized for different things than fighters or frigate meaning you have to reconsider several design choices.
[ ] Eternal Youth [1600]: Death from "old age" is an issue many races have to face. Humanity has been slowly increasing the expected life span as new technologies allow damaged organs and parts to be replaced. However, the body was young once and if one could reset the clock and regenerate what is damaged old age will not be able to claim a single human life again. The Krogan and Asari prove that it can be done biologically. (Produces a treatment that will make the recipient immune to aging).
[ ] Advanced Xenobiology [800]: You've solved many issue for humanity, now it time to consider how to spread the benefits to other races, as well as considering any unique issue they may have. (Allows the application of human biotech to other races.)
[ ] Extremis (Locked) [1600]: Super nanite enhanced super people, what's not to love? Integrates flesh and machine on a fundamental level applying the best of your technology. May have strange side effects that look kind of like super power depending on the programming. Also Illegal.
[ ] Anti-starship Torpedoes [400]: Warships are big and tough, in addition the environment of space means that one must reconsider the design of certain warheads. All that said it shouldn't be too hard to develop a functional anti-starship weapon. (Develop missiles meant for use against starships as well as a directed plasma burst warhead.)
[ ] Hyper Modularity [400]: Allows the development of parts that can be rapidly substituted for one another or re-arranged. Time depends on the scale of the objects. While not the rapid second or shorter transformations seen in some media the minutes to hours scale time frames are still useful.
[ ] Generation II Arc-Reactor [400]: MORE POWER! Well four times as much. And a ten times that one shot burst mode for about a minute. Mind that basically ruins the palladium core and requires the device to be restarted with only a few days use left. Of course you could just put more palladium into it.
[ ] Total Internal Reflection Systems [1600]: Mass effect fields refract light, thus a strong enough field will produce total internal reflection. Used properly a multi-layered field could be used to produce a double TIR effect making the surrounded object invisible. Stealth! In Space! On the other hand you should probably experiment with this in space. (Allows TIR stealth as well as TIR shields that will reduce laser damage, Requires a deep space lab).
[ ] Quantum Entanglement Communications [1600]: Getting functional FTL data transmission from quantum entanglement isn't easy. This technology has been in development for ages by the galactic community. But it has always been far too complicated and expensive to be useful. However, you might be able to improve on it.
[ ] Multi-core Eezo Systems [800]: Using multiple cores in a ship or other system presents a way to get around the limitations of discharge. Using multiple large cores you could cycle a "full" one out and slowly bleed the charge out while another takes over. Or you could have several smaller cores that don't discharge dangerous amounts of energy when they overload. Beyond that multiple cores allow for several interesting future applications. (Ships equipped with these systems cost more but do not have drive charge limitations)
[ ] Tractor Beams [800]: A relatively simple application of mass effect technology applied to a larger scale. The trick is to make it work at a useful range and cheap enough that its feasible to deploy. (What It says on the tin.)
[ ] Comm Buoy Construction [1600]: Barring a truly incredible leap in other communication technologies Comm Buoys are the best way to get large amounts of data around with low response time. The expensive but critical devices allow the galactic extranet to function and hold the galactic community together. They also are a stepping stone toward making one's own Mass Relays. (Requires a deep space lab)
[ ] Anti-matter Production [1600]: Anti-matter is a controlled substance on the galactic scale. It is also one of the primary warship "fuels", making it quite valuable. On the other hand It makes for some nasty bombs. Anti-matter takes a fair amount of power to make and arc-reactor technology provides that power. (Allows the creation of anti-matter production plants)
[ ] Gravitational Wave Detectors [800]: One of these could have a great deal of value in space if it had long range and could be made small enough. Allowing vessels surrounded by a TIR field to see outside easily and also allowing the detection of such vessels. Not to mention the scientific potential.
[ ] Very Large Space Stations [1600]: People of all races have been proposing giant space stations for ages. Why not develop and build one? They're not quite citadel sized, but they're far bigger then any race would normally build. (What it says on the tin)
[ ] Basic Vehicle Scale Weapon Mods [200]: Weapon mods are been used by infantry to fine tune their guns for the task at had. You can do the same for vehicles scale weapons.
[ ] Small Ship Scale Mods [800]: Applying weapon mod technology to starship scale weapons should provide several advantages to the owners of such technology. Mind you'd need to upgrade the guns to use the tech. It also wouldn't be particularly fast to swap the mods out without specialized support systems (Allows the production of Starship Ammo/Weapon Mods and Modable Mass Accelerators)
[ ] Advanced Ammo Mods [600]: Some ammo mods are simple, others are rather complex. Items like warp ammo and cryo ammo aren't simple so applying them to larger weapons will take some more work. Also upgrades the basic ammo mods.
[ ] 200m MAC [200]: Interestingly making larger linear accelerators is a fair bit more complicated than just making them longer, magnetic saturation, feedback and interference are all issues that must be considered. In addition the tech could do with some updating to handle recent technological advances.
[ ] Optical Computing [49/800]: If you can commute with light and can make light go faster than you can compute really really fast right? The basic idea is sound, but the precision timing of computational components means that you need to make sure you don't screw the timing up. Also being able to make the speed dynamically adjust would be useful.
[ ] Liara's Prothean Artifact [100]: Liara has scans of an artifact that she'd like you to look at. The actual artifact is a small 30cm x 20cm x 2cm slab seemingly made from a single block of an unknown material. One side is completely flat while the other has a few millimeter deep channels in it as most Prothean technological devices do. Liara believes it may be a Prothean data slate. (Available until 2173-Q4, results unknown)
Conrad's Special Projects
[ ] The invisible man [100/400]: The stealth system that was installed in the prototype the Berkeley students presented at the power armor conference was not good enough to fool Alliance security, but then it was Conrad piloting the thing. While working on your advanced ceramic, you've had some ideas of your own on how to incorporate digital camouflage at a fundamental level. (Make near-invisible versions of your vehicles. Sound, thermal and radar detection will still be issues, but issues exist to be solved!)
[ ] The black fucking gun [400]: Conrad knows pretty much how the "Black Hole Gun, but not really" that they entered into the competition works. It does, however, have more than a few safety issues, and you really don't want a gun that will make General Alexander call you and ask what the hell happened to his entire right flank. The core idea is good, but the problem is that Conrad, smart though he is, is very bad at adapting his designs to the constraints posed by reality. (Build the M-490 Blackstorm, though you get to pick a new name for it if you'd like.)
[ ] Time is an illusion [???]: Have Conrad and his team continue the work he started in his dissertation. Time manipulation of any kind would be pretty awesome, but this is as bleeding edge as research gets, and you have no idea what's on the other side, or how far away it is. (This may or may not give you limited control over time. It may or may not have other prerequisite techs.)
Invest in security? 1 million per building per quarter (amount will be the same for any "high security" buildings)
[ ] Yes
[ ] No
[ ] Some other amount (More for better security!)
Who do you want to get your PMC license from?
[ ] Systems Alliance (1.5 million in total fees)
[ ] Citadel (1 million in fees)
[ ] The Terminus (Free because there is no license!)
[ ] Don't start a PMC
PMC Name?
[ ] (Write in)
Who will you pursue? (Choose one)
[ ] Gala Da'van
[ ] Jenzel Fend nar Rayya
[ ] Gaver Dor
[ ] No one
[ ] Underground base is go! (Security bonus, additional costs 20 million)
[ ] Big site (+1 factory slot)
[ ] Nah, stay in/near the capital
[ ] Actually let's not expand to Elysium.
What type of interview? (You can if you wish review any type of interview before publication.)
[ ] Video
[ ] Audio
[ ] Text
Where will you do the interview?
[ ] Over the extranet
[ ] At the Paragon Industries complex
[ ] At your home
What got you into science and engineering in the first place?
[ ] Write-in
Where did the idea for the Legionary armor come from?
[ ] Write-in
What can you tell us about the arc-reactor (and/or other PI technologies)?
[ ] Keep it vague.
[ ] Basic layman's explanation
[ ] Basic technical details.
What do you think the effects of the arc-reactor will be on society?
[ ] Write-in
And on the military?
[ ] Write-in
What should we expect to see next from Paragon Industries?
[ ] Write-in
-[ ] Show of something? (Write in)
Who's you favorite historical scientist?
[ ] Write-in
What will you do?
[ ] Pay (500 million credits)
[ ] Keep investigating without the information
-[ ] How much will you spend?
[ ] Stop investigating
What shall we do?
[ ] Sell a few large arc-reactors to Eldfell-Ashland Energy
-[ ] How many, in what power and at what price?
[ ] Sell/Donate to The Post Scarcity Society
-[ ] Donate (How many of what power?)
-[ ] Don't Donate
[ ] Give the Turian Hierarchy a discount on their bulk order(s)
-[ ] How Much?
[ ]None of the above
[ ] Yes
[ ] No
[ ] Some other amount (More for better security!)
Who do you want to get your PMC license from?
[ ] Systems Alliance (1.5 million in total fees)
[ ] Citadel (1 million in fees)
[ ] The Terminus (Free because there is no license!)
[ ] Don't start a PMC
PMC Name?
[ ] (Write in)
Who will you pursue? (Choose one)
[ ] Gala Da'van
[ ] Jenzel Fend nar Rayya
[ ] Gaver Dor
[ ] No one
Will you try to acquire anything? (Choose one)
[ ] Starship parts (200 million credits, 100 points to next level of starship tech, Bradley now gets 265,000 per Production)
[ ] Ship weapons components (400 million credits, 200 points to next level of MAC tech, Bradley now gets 260,000 per Production)
[ ] Nothing
Do you want to grab one of the sites?[ ] Starship parts (200 million credits, 100 points to next level of starship tech, Bradley now gets 265,000 per Production)
[ ] Ship weapons components (400 million credits, 200 points to next level of MAC tech, Bradley now gets 260,000 per Production)
[ ] Nothing
[ ] Underground base is go! (Security bonus, additional costs 20 million)
[ ] Big site (+1 factory slot)
[ ] Nah, stay in/near the capital
[ ] Actually let's not expand to Elysium.
What type of interview? (You can if you wish review any type of interview before publication.)
[ ] Video
[ ] Audio
[ ] Text
Where will you do the interview?
[ ] Over the extranet
[ ] At the Paragon Industries complex
[ ] At your home
What got you into science and engineering in the first place?
[ ] Write-in
Where did the idea for the Legionary armor come from?
[ ] Write-in
What can you tell us about the arc-reactor (and/or other PI technologies)?
[ ] Keep it vague.
[ ] Basic layman's explanation
[ ] Basic technical details.
What do you think the effects of the arc-reactor will be on society?
[ ] Write-in
And on the military?
[ ] Write-in
What should we expect to see next from Paragon Industries?
[ ] Write-in
-[ ] Show of something? (Write in)
Who's you favorite historical scientist?
[ ] Write-in
What will you do?
[ ] Pay (500 million credits)
[ ] Keep investigating without the information
-[ ] How much will you spend?
[ ] Stop investigating
What shall we do?
[ ] Sell a few large arc-reactors to Eldfell-Ashland Energy
-[ ] How many, in what power and at what price?
[ ] Sell/Donate to The Post Scarcity Society
-[ ] Donate (How many of what power?)
-[ ] Don't Donate
[ ] Give the Turian Hierarchy a discount on their bulk order(s)
-[ ] How Much?
[ ]None of the above
----
GM's Note: Uggg... writing all those tech things was a pain... *checks stats* Holy shit, 19 pages! 8200+ words?! Umm yeah wow. Okay then. Well all the usual I guess. I'm hoping to get the new starship cost/production figures hammered out soon. I'm currently considering numbers around one-tenth the ones I first guesstimated for military ships and civilian ships being 100-5000 times less that that. Also I'm planning on getting a tech release/security status sheet put together. I hope this meets expectations, though I admit that after a point the length got to me. Also I think I collected all the votes scattered in the update into one spoiler at the end. Additional GM question: I've been avoiding abbreviating company names in the text save when a character would say/think that way. Does any one really care if I use abbreviations instead?
Edit: Put techs into a spoiler.
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Which may still be broken, I hope not. Okay now that I have that out of the way, yay! update! 14 pages or so of it. So there is more stuff of course a News section a Politics bit, and Events bit (which will include what Liara find when she turns the artifact on). Then the next bit which should be the personal action/research/company actions bit. Anyway all the usual, there's probably a glaring error or five I missed. I almost though it was done with an entire section missing! 
And I'm noted the omake UberJJK +50 and all (unless you wanted something else?) So that's 150 pooled if I'm mathing correctly.