Echo of Choice (A Destiny Plan Quest)

Y2 Q2 Results

-[X] Form an internal watchgroup for corruption/corporate espionage (371/500; 100R per dice) 4FD 400R
Roll= 82+65+76+[95+5(bonus)] = 323+ 58(100 bonus)= 381

371+381= 752 FINISHED

After extensive investigation, much of it centered on S's relentless monitoring and analysis; coupled with a series of surprise interviews with employees—you and Cayde were finally able to conclude your evaluation of Skynet's workforce. The results were both relieving and satisfying: every single employee was fully loyal to you and the company.

This confirmation brought an immense sense of relief. Knowing you could trust your team completely allowed you to move forward with two critical plans.

The first plan was the official formation of SkyEye, Skynet's internal watchdog group. Composed of select members from every department, SkyEye's mission was to monitor for any signs of corruption, internal misconduct, or espionage from outside sources.

Cayde was assigned to oversee the group, leveraging his experience and sharp instincts. However, the true overseer would always be S. With her ability to monitor digital communications, detect anomalies, and ensure compliance across the company, S would serve as the silent but ever-present guardian of SkyEye's operations.

The establishment of SkyEye marked a significant step in safeguarding Skynet's integrity as the company continued to grow in prominence.

The second plan was far more ambitious. With confirmation of your employees' loyalty, you decided, with input and unanimous agreement from your friends; to reveal the existence of Glimmer to the rest of the company.

Before unveiling the project, all employees were required to sign updated non-disclosure agreements, explicitly stating the importance of keeping Glimmer's existence a closely guarded secret.

When the big reveal finally came, the initial reaction was one of disbelief. Employees across all departments struggled to comprehend the significance of what they were seeing. But once they were shown the GPL in action and who created it, doubts quickly evaporated.

One R&D employee succinctly summed up the shift in attitude:
"The woman discovered Cold Fusion. Her having also created what's essentially a Star Trek replicator? Honestly, it's more than believable."

By the end of the presentation, the employees not only understood the revolutionary nature of Glimmer but also recognized its potential to catapult Skynet into becoming a true global powerhouse. They pledged to protect the project's secrecy, fully aware of the risks posed by competitors and bad actors if the technology's existence were leaked.

This included the NAE military personnel assigned to Skynet as part of the company's security force. Over time, they had grown to respect you as a leader, largely because of the way you treated them. You understood the importance of recognizing their contributions, ensuring they were well-compensated, equipped, and supported.

For them, working as security for Skynet was seen as a relatively cushy and straightforward posting. The company's state-of-the-art facilities, steady routines, and lack of direct combat operations made it a welcome reprieve from the high-risk assignments they were accustomed to.

However, the situation could change dramatically if the higher-ups in the NAE ever discovered the existence of Glimmer. Such revolutionary technology would undoubtedly spark intense interest, and possibly interference; from the military leadership. What was once a relaxed and desirable position might suddenly transform into a high-pressure, heavily scrutinized assignment.

To further reinforce the importance of Glimmer and to provide a tangible demonstration of its capabilities, you implemented a practical perk: the company cafeteria.

The cafeteria, which already served free meals to employees, was allowed to use the GPL. This allowed the chefs to create dishes that would typically cost a fortune in high-class restaurants. Employees could now enjoy gourmet meals, everything from truffle pasta to Wagyu beef; without ever leaving the company and for free.

Needless to say, this move earned widespread acclaim. Morale skyrocketed, and the tangible benefits of Glimmer solidified its importance in the minds of your workforce.

With the existence of Glimmer now an open secret within Skynet, the doors were opened for collaboration and innovation. The R&D department was tasked with finding ways to improve the efficiency and capabilities of Glimmer. Meanwhile, the Manufacturing Department, now fully aware of the project, began planning the implementation of additional GPLs to boost the company's production capabilities, especially considering the ever-increasing demands for Gale Reactors that the world wants.

For the first time, you felt like the company wasn't just keeping up with the future, it was shaping it.

Reward:
SkyEye operational (+20 when dealing with corruption and espionage)
All employees are confirmed loyal and know about Glimmer and keep it a secret.

====================

-[X] Convert a Factory level with Glimmer tech:
--[X] Both version (848/1500; 100R per dice)(Purchase temporary dice at 150R per dice) 29TD 4500R
+5 manu bonus

Roll: D100 => 100 (NAT 100 CRIT)
Roll: D100 => 43
Roll: D100 => 99 CRIT +5 (cancels out)
Roll: D100 => 70
Roll: D100 => 50
Roll: D100 => 91
Roll: D100 => 92
Roll: D100 => 19
Roll: D100 => 27
Roll: D100 => 93
Roll: D100 => 92
Roll: D100 => 5
Roll: D100 => 2 FAIL CRIT -5 (cancels out)
Roll: D100 => 26
Roll: D100 => 96
Roll: D100 => 45
Roll: D100 => 39
Roll: D100 => 60
Roll: D100 => 14
Roll: D100 => 74
Roll: D100 => 5
Roll: D100 => 55
Roll: D100 => 5
Roll: D100 => 24
Roll: D100 => 81
Roll: D100 => 40
Roll: D100 => 83
Roll: D100 => 16
Roll: D100 => 95 + 5 (MANU BONUS)= 100 (ART 100 CRIT)
NAT 100 Bonus= 62
ART 100 Bonus= 38

FINAL TOTAL WITH BONUS= 1646

848+652= 1500, finished
Glimmer Production Line, Trash Version CHANGED to Mixed Version (+10 Manufacturing Dice)

1646-652= 994 left. Placed into Mixed Version (994/1500)

With the Manufacturing Department now fully briefed on Glimmer and its capabilities, progress on updating the GPL accelerated far beyond original expectations. What had once seemed like an ambitious timeline was now being surpassed at an impressive pace, thanks to the combined efforts of engineers, technicians, and researchers who were eager to prove their worth.

By the middle of the quarter, the original GPL had been successfully upgraded. It could now utilize both energy and trash as inputs, significantly increasing its production capacity for Glimmer and finished products. The upgrade not only streamlined the system but also opened up new possibilities for scalability and efficiency.

Buoyed by this momentum, the Manufacturing Department approached you with a proposal: to begin construction of a second GPL using the updated model. They argued that having an additional line would not only double production but also provide redundancy in case of unforeseen issues with the first system.

After reviewing their plans and consulting with your team, you gave them the green light to proceed. The department wasted no time, mobilizing resources and personnel to begin construction.

By the end of the quarter, the second GPL was already more than halfway complete.

Reward:
Glimmer Production Line, Trash Version CHANGED to Mixed Version (+10 Manufacturing Dice)
Construction of second mixed GPL started (994/1500)

==============

-[X] Smaller Fusion (0/1500, Phase 1; 150R per dice): 3RD 450R
+5 bonus, +15 bonus (total- 20)

Roll: D100 => 67
Roll: D100 => 73
Roll: D100 => 98+5

Total= 243+20= 263

With the Gale Reactor poised to revolutionize the world in its current form, you began to consider how its design could be adapted for more specialized applications. One particular avenue of interest stood out: naval vessels.

You envisioned a future where the Gale Reactor could be installed aboard NAE Navy ships, fundamentally changing the way naval operations were conducted. The potential was staggering, unlimited clean energy at sea, reduced dependency on fuel resupply chains, and the ability to deploy fleets for extended missions without the logistical constraints of traditional fuel sources.

The implications weren't just strategic but also financial. Successfully integrating a scaled-down version of the Gale Reactor into naval vessels could lead to an incredibly lucrative contract with the NAE Navy.

Right now, the R&D department has begun the project into first looking at how to scale down the core components.

===========

-[X] Nanomachines Son (0/5000; 100R per dice): 4FD 400R

Roll: D100 => 25
Roll: D100 => 38
Roll: D100 => 42
Roll: D100 => 16
Total= 121

121/5000

With your decision to inject yourself with SOP after you finished your trips to DC and Kiev, you wondered if it was possible if the nanites in your possession to be changed into having the same capacity as the ones used by Armstrong.

When you told S about it, she decided to have a small part of her subroutines research this matter.

Though she told you that since she was alone in doing this, and already dealing with several things around the company, it would be a slow project.

You told her to take her time.
=======================
-[X] Look for a Company Doctor (0/100; 50R per dice): 3 OD 150R
+5 bonus

Roll= 72+2+77= 151 (CRIT FAIL (-5) canceled out with Bonus (+5))

You were in the middle of reviewing your flight plan to Kiev, scheduled for next month, when your phone buzzed. It was Kora.

"Hey, John," she began, her tone casual but with an edge of urgency. "Do you mind if Cayde and I take a few days off? We've got to help out a friend in L.A."

Curious but too swamped with tasks to dig deeper, you gave her a simple answer. "Sure, take the time you need."

You couldn't shake your curiosity about this mysterious friend, but with your plate already full, you decided to let it go.

A week passed, and Kora called again, this time to inform you that she and Cayde were back. Deciding to check in with them, you made your way to their apartment.

When the door swung open, it wasn't Kora or Cayde who greeted you. Instead, standing in the doorway was a blonde woman who looked like she had stepped off a runway. Her striking green eyes and statuesque frame gave her an air of effortless elegance, but the dark circles under her eyes and her slightly disheveled appearance told a different story.

"Hey." She said groggily, her thick Russian accent unmistakable. "Where is the sausage pizza I ordered?"

Caught off guard, you blinked a few times before responding. "Uh… I think you have the wrong…."

Before you could finish, Kora appeared behind her, groaning. "Eris! That's John, not a pizza guy!"

Eris blinked, clearly trying to process what Kora had just said. "Oh… well, I'm hungry anyway." She turned back to you, this time with a sheepish smile. "Sorry about that. Come in. No pizza?"

Eris pulled the door open wider, gesturing you inside. As you stepped in, you couldn't help but notice the clutter—half-unpacked boxes, stacks of books, and medical journals scattered across the table.

"So," You began, glancing between Kora and the newcomer, "I take it this is the friend you and Cayde went to help in LA?"

Kora nodded, motioning toward Eris. "John, meet Dr. Erisia Pyatova-Hsien, or Eris for short. She's one of my best friends from med school and as off today, my second roommate. Eris, this is John, my boss."

Eris extended a hand, her tired expression softening into something friendlier. "Nice to meet you. And, um, sorry again about the pizza comment."

"No problem. Though I am curious as to why you are here instead of LA?" You asked.

Both women's faces turned sour and from there they told you what happened.

It turned out Kora and Cayde's trip to L.A. had been far more eventful than you'd imagined.

Eris, as Kora explained later, had once been one of L.A.'s best ER surgeons, a star in the medical field. Her skill and dedication had earned her accolades and respect, but all of that came crashing down due to a single tragic incident.

During a catastrophic car pile-up that resulted in multiple casualties, Eris had to make a split-second decision. Two patients required immediate attention: a child with severe internal bleeding and an elderly man in critical condition.

Without hesitation, Eris prioritized the child and successfully saved his life. Unfortunately, by the time she turned her attention to the elderly man, it was too late, he had flatlined.

What should have been seen as an act of professionalism and triage under impossible circumstances quickly spiraled into disaster. The elderly man turned out to be an influential figure from a wealthy family, and his relatives were enraged by his death.

In a bid to placate the family, the hospital where Eris worked threw her under the bus. Despite her impeccable record and protests that she had followed standard protocol, Eris was fired.

The family didn't stop there. They filed multiple malpractice lawsuits against her, draining her savings and forcing her to sell her home and most of her possessions to cover the legal fees. Worse still, they used their connections to blacklist her from every major hospital in the NAE, effectively ending her medical career.

Desperate and with nowhere else to turn, Eris reached out to Kora.

Kora didn't hesitate. She and Cayde flew to L.A. to help Eris pack up what little she had left and brought her back to their apartment.

"She's staying with us for now." Kora explained. "Until we figure out how to get her back on her feet."

Eris, for her part, shrugged off the sympathy. "It's life. You do the right thing, and sometimes it costs you. But I couldn't just let that child die."

Her words struck a chord with you. Here was someone who had stood by her principles, even when it ruined her career. That kind of integrity wasn't just admirable, it was rare.

After spending the rest of the afternoon getting to know her better, an idea began forming in your mind. Skynet had been growing rapidly, and with the recent expansion of projects like Glimmer and the Gale Reactor, the company needed someone to oversee the health and well-being of its employees. You'd been meaning to fill the vacant on-site company doctor position for months, but you hadn't found anyone who felt like the right fit.

Until now.

"Eris." You said, breaking the casual flow of conversation. "Have you considered taking up a new role as a private company doctor?"

She blinked, looking at you like you'd just suggested she become an astronaut. "Company doctor? Where?"

"At Skynet." You said simply. "We've got an open position, and from what I've heard, you'd be perfect for it."

Her brows furrowed. "Wait, you're serious?"

"Completely." You assured her. "The job comes with excellent pay, full benefits, and you'd have access to cutting-edge tech. Plus, you'd be working with at least two people that know you."

She glanced at Kora and Cayde, both of whom nodded enthusiastically.

"I mean, it's not a traditional hospital setting," You continued. "But you'd have all the resources you'd need to help people, and no one's going to throw you under the bus for doing the right thing."

Eris was quiet for a moment, clearly processing the offer. Then, to your surprise, her eyes grew misty.

"I… I don't know what to say," she admitted, her voice trembling slightly. "I've been trying so hard to find something, anything, since everything fell apart. And now you're offering me a job? Just like that?"

"It's not just like that," you replied, your tone steady but firm. "Kora and Cayde vouching for you means a lot. And from what I've seen, you've got the skills, the heart, and the drive for this. Skynet could really use someone like you."

Eris hesitated, her green eyes searching your face. "But… what about my blacklisted status? I wouldn't fit well with a private company carrying that kind of baggage."

You let out a huff, crossing your arms. "Eris, let me put it this way: I'm a former spec-ops soldier turned Chief of Security who somehow ended up as a CEO after my boss died unexpectedly. Lance? He quit working for Clovis Bray because that jackass denied Kora medical insurance when she was sick. Cayde is here because his former partners thought he was a traitor—until his innocence was finally proven. And Ivan?"

You paused, giving her a smirk. "If Kora hasn't already filled you in, let's just say Ivan is a weird, eccentric rich guy who somehow ended up becoming one of my closest allies. Trust me when I say that you're not the only one here with an 'origin story' that's unconventional." You even air-quoted the phrase with your fingers for emphasis.

Eris's lips twitched into the faintest of smiles, but the doubt still lingered in her eyes. "Even so, won't hiring me cause problems for Skynet? My reputation—"

"Eris." You interrupted, your tone growing more resolute. "This company is the only one in the world capable of producing cold fusion energy. Right now, I'm holding the keys to a technology that every government, corporation, and research institute on the planet wants. If anyone has a problem with me hiring you, they can take it up with me, and I guarantee you, no one's stupid enough to try."

Her expression softened as she absorbed your words. For a moment, the air between you was filled with quiet understanding.

Finally, Eris took a deep breath, steadying herself. She gave you a small but genuine smile. "Thank you, John. If you're serious about this, I'd be honored to accept."

By the end of the week, the paperwork was finalized, and Eris officially joined Skynet as its new Company Doctor. The news was met with mixed reactions at first, some employees were curious about her background, while others whispered rumors about her blacklisted status.

Of course, it didn't hurt that Eris's supermodel-like appearance drew plenty of attention—particularly from the male employees. The number of "volunteers" for routine check-ups spiked almost overnight, with more than one guy muttering a star-struck "Hello, Nurse" under his breath when she walked by.

Much to Eris's annoyance, this became a running joke around the office.

"Let me guess." She said one day, crossing her arms as a blushing technician stammered through his third 'urgent' appointment that week. "You suddenly developed another mysterious condition?"

Kora, meanwhile, couldn't have been prouder. Watching Eris thrive in her new role brought a beaming smile to her face, and she wasn't shy about bragging to anyone who would listen.

"This is why you don't underestimate my friends." She'd say with a grin, nudging you as Eris calmly handled yet another crisis like it was a casual stroll through the park.

Cayde, of course, took the opportunity to crack his usual jokes. "Well, look at us now." He said one day during lunch, smirking as he leaned back in his chair. "We've got our very own miracle worker. Good thing, too. If John gets us all shot by one of those oil corporations, at least Eris will be here to patch us up."

Eris rolled her eyes, but there was a faint smile on her lips. "If that happens, Cayde, you're first on my triage list, but I'm not promising you'll enjoy it."

The banter brought laughter to the table, reinforcing the camaraderie that made Skynet's team feel more like a family than a corporate machine.

You still remember her expression when she was let in on the secret of Glimmer and quickly asked if it could work on medicine, which the answer was yes. This led her to the realization that she could just simply order the most expensive and best medicine in the market, scan them and have basically an unlimited amount of them to work with.

For you, seeing Eris step into her new role was a reminder of what Skynet seems to be building up to: second chances, innovation, and building something greater than any one person.

Eris wasn't just a skilled doctor; she was a survivor, someone who had been knocked down but refused to stay there.

And now, she was part of your team. Including adding her to SkyChat.

As you passed her office one evening, you glanced through the open door to see her reviewing patient files with a look of intense focus. For the first time in a long while, she looked like she belonged.

"Welcome to Skynet, Dr. Pyatova-Hsien." You murmured to yourself, a small smile on your face as you walked away.

Reward:
Dr. Erisia 'Eris' Pyatova-Hsien: Company Doctor
+1 Operations Dice, +5 to medical related rolls (can be turned to Research if the action is biological)

======================
-[X] Get a new suit (140/250; 50R per dice): 150R (3 rolls)
Rolls= 34, 34, 100; dubs and NAT 100
Bonus Roll= 88

You were reviewing another batch of reports on the manufacturing department's progress when your inbox chimed with a new email. Glancing over, the subject line caught your attention: "Your Order Is Ready for Pickup - Continental Hotel"

Frowning, you opened the email. It was a formal notification with specific instructions for retrieving an order you supposedly placed a year ago. Confused, you turned to S, her avatar appearing on your monitor.

"What's this about, S? I don't remember ordering anything from a hotel chain." You said, gesturing to the email.

S's digital eyes sparkled with amusement. "It's about the suits, John. Remember? You ordered tailored suits a year ago under your mentor's recommendation."

Suddenly, it clicked. You vaguely recalled the conversation, though the details were fuzzy. Your old mentor had insisted after you complained about the suits you been wearing being uncomfortable to wear.

He'd recommended this mysterious tailor who for some reason operated under the Continental Hotel. What you didn't understand was why it had taken so long or why it was tied to an international hotel chain.

The email directed you to the Continental Hotel in Los Angeles, where your order would be ready for pickup the following weekend. Curiosity piqued, you decided you'd make the trip on Saturday.

Walking into the opulent lobby of the Continental Hotel in Los Angeles felt like stepping into another world. The space was a masterpiece of understated luxury—polished marble floors gleamed under the soft glow of ornate chandeliers, while sleek modern furniture seamlessly complemented the building's classical architecture. Subtle details, from the intricate patterns in the carpeting to the quiet hum of classical music in the background, radiated an aura of exclusivity and sophistication.

You adjusted your subtle disguise as you scanned the room. It wasn't much, just a pair of non-prescription glasses and a slightly different hairstyle; but enough to make you less recognizable. The clientele lounging in the lobby were just as enigmatic as the hotel itself: a mix of sharp-suited individuals and well-dressed travelers who carried themselves with a confidence that suggested they were no strangers to danger.

As you approached the reception desk, you were greeted by a strikingly beautiful woman. Her suit was sharp, tailored to perfection in a way that exuded both elegance and authority. Her blonde hair was swept into a neat bun, and her makeup was understated but flawless. Her poise was almost unnerving, her eyes meeting yours with a calm intensity that seemed to evaluate you in an instant.

"Good evening, sir. Welcome to the Continental. Is there anything you need of attendance?" She said with a professional yet melodic tone, her lips curling into a polite smile.

You leaned in slightly, lowering your voice as you whispered the passphrase provided in the email.

For a moment, her expression didn't change. Her professional demeanor was impeccable, but you noticed a flicker in her eyes, a fleeting moment of recognition and surprise that she quickly masked.

"Of course, sir." She said smoothly, her tone as steady as before. "Please follow me."

With a subtle gesture, she stepped out from behind the desk and led you through a discreet door at the back of the lobby. The shift in atmosphere was immediate. The noise and grandeur of the lobby faded as you entered a private hallway, its walls lined with dark wood panels and subtle lighting.

The concierge walked ahead, her heels clicking softly against the marble floor. Her movements were precise, every step deliberate, as if she had done this countless times.

Finally, you arrived at a room that felt worlds apart from the rest of the hotel.

It was an atelier, impeccably designed with the same blend of luxury and functionality that defined the Continental. Mannequins dressed in various stages of tailoring stood like sentinels around the room. Rolls of fine fabric were neatly stacked on shelves, and an array of tools lay organized on a polished wooden table.

Standing in the center of it all was the same bald man that attended you a year ago, dressed in a crisp three-piece suit. His demeanor exuded quiet confidence, his sharp eyes appraising you the moment you entered.

"Ah, Mr. Conner." He said warmly, his voice smooth and practiced. "It's been a long time. Your patience has paid off."

The tailor guided you to a private fitting area, its walls adorned with sleek mirrors that reflected the warm light of overhead fixtures. The centerpiece of the room was a mannequin draped in a suit. The design was as elegant as it was understated—a sharp, charcoal-black ensemble suit.

"Shall we?" The tailor asked, gesturing toward the suit.

You nodded, running your hand over the fabric as you removed it from the mannequin. It felt luxurious but surprisingly sturdy. As you took off your clothes and slipped on the suit, you were struck by how perfectly it fit, like it had been sculpted specifically for your body. Every movement felt natural, unrestricted, and comfortable.

The suit wasn't just stylish; it was functional in a way that far exceeded your expectations.

'Guess the old man was right.' You though as you looked at your self in the mirror.

The tailor's eyes gleamed with satisfaction as he watched you examine yourself in the mirror. "Impressive, isn't it?" He said. "But I assure you, its true value lies beneath the surface."

Curious, you turned to him. "What do you mean?"

With a small, knowing smile, he gestured for you to follow him to an adjoining room. This space was starkly utilitarian compared to the elegance of the fitting area. A reinforced wall, riddled with dents and marks from past demonstrations, stood opposite a simple table holding a handgun.

The tailor picked up the gun and handed it to you. "Go ahead. Fire."

You raised an eyebrow, skeptical. "At what?"

He pointed toward another mannequin at the far end of the room, dressed in a suit identical to yours. "That will do."

Still uncertain, you checked the gun, confirming it was loaded, then took aim at the center of the mannequin. The shot rang out, echoing in the room, and the mannequin jerked slightly as the bullet struck. It was then from where you were standing saw that there was no hole in the fabric and the bullet was on the ground.

Letting your curiosity take over, you proceeded to shoot the rest of the gun's magazine into the mannequin's clothed parts.

By the end of the gun firing it's last bullet, you saw that the suit did not have a single tear or hole in the fabric.

"What the hell?" You said as you secured the gun and placed it on the table.

The tailor walked toward the mannequin and retrieved it's jacket and brought it back to you and began to show you what was inside of it.

"Silicon carbide discs." He began, running a hand over the suit. "Ceramic matrices. Cutting-edge body armor. We sew it between the fabric and the lining. Zero penetration. However…" He chuckled softly. "Quite painful, I'm afraid. The impact will leave bruises, but it won't kill you."

You stared at the jacket in astonishment, then looking down at your own suit. The idea of wearing something so deceptively protective felt like stepping into a world of spooks.

"Want to try it yourself?" The tailor offered, holding out another gun from his holster.

After a moment's hesitation, you nodded. The tailor instructed you to stand near the wall as he took aim. You braced yourself, and the crack of the gunshot was almost immediately followed by a sharp, jarring impact against your chest. It stung, more than you expected; but when you checked, there wasn't a single mark on the suit or your skin beyond a dull ache.

"Well?" The tailor asked, his tone proud.

You let out a breath, adjusting the lapels. "It's incredible. Painful, sure, but, I can live with that."

The tailor smiled as he began to pack your suits into sleek garment bags. "Good. A man in your position deserves nothing but the best. These will serve you well, Mr. Conner."

As you waited for him to finish, you couldn't help but wonder why a hotel chain like the Continental offered such advanced equipment. Everything about this operation hinted at a deeper purpose, one that went far beyond luxury accommodations; something that felt more like spook work.

Still, something told you it was better not to ask. Except maybe ask your old mentor later on how he knows of this or see what S could gather discreetly.

Moments later, you heard the faint creak of the door opening behind you. You turned to see a man enter the room, his presence immediately commanding. His dark suit mirrored yours in cut and style, but it was his aura, calm yet menacing; that caught your attention. Around his neck hung a green pendant, shaped into two serpents intertwined in a yin-yang formation.

"Mr. Conner, the most talked man in the world." The man said, his voice smooth but firm. "I hope I'm not interrupting. I was hoping we might discuss a potential business arrangement."

You met his gaze, your instincts warning you that this was no ordinary individual. But you nodded, curious and cautious. "I have a few minutes."

The man extended a hand. "Mr. Conner, I'm Wu Ming. I represent the Continental."

Cautiously, you shook his hand. "What can I do for you?"

"I was sent on behalf of my employers to discuss a potential business opportunity." Wu Ming began, his tone polite but firm. "We're looking to partner with Skynet for the constant production of certain computer components, some of them needing to be custom-made."

He handed you a list. While you weren't an expert in older technology, you recognized that many of the parts were for rather old systems. The Continental was clearly maintaining or restoring something very specific.

What caught your attention even more was the price they were willing to pay, a generous sum, alongside an enticing perk: free stays for Skynet VIPs at any Continental Hotel worldwide.

"I'll need time to discuss this with my team." You said carefully, your mind already racing with the possibilities.

Wu Ming nodded, handing you a business card. "Take all the time you need. Call us when you've made a decision."

As he left the room, you stared at the card, feeling the weight of the encounter.

Rewards:
Gained custom made bulletproof suits acquired (+5 to Security/Military rolls when using them) (Unknown= suits can withstand Armstrong transformation)

Possible business contract with the Continental acquired, vote later on.

=====================

-[X] Check your qualifications. Just because you're a CEO now doesn't mean you're a REMF 25 R
Roll= 26, FAIL

'And the sky is blue. Try again.'
==========================================
-[X] Talk with S, the AI: Talk with S and continue to work with her, who's face is now of a R34 Boss, your waifu. (1 dice to activate, 100R; can purchase three dice max) 300R (3 rolls)

Roll= 50, 44, 57= 151

(John's POV)
Location: John's Home

You leaned back on your couch, letting out a long breath. It had been a chaotic week, and all you wanted now was a little time to unwind. Your focus shifted to S, her avatar displayed on the large monitor in your living room, as you made a declaration.

"S, we are not going to talk about work for the next hour."

She raised an eyebrow, well, the digital equivalent of one; clearly skeptical. "Really? You mean no updates, no projects, no Mars issues?"

You cut her off before she could go further. "No. And no, we are not talking about my stash. Got it?"

Her expression shifted to playful annoyance. "Fine. What dumb thing are we going to talk about then?"

You smirked, enjoying her reaction. "We're going to talk about… video games."

She blinked, caught off guard by your response. "Video games?"

"Not just talk about them." You corrected, leaning forward slightly. "I want you to start playing one."

Her tone grew more suspicious, tinged with mild curiosity. "What game could you possibly want me to play?"

You grinned mischievously, relishing the moment. "DOOM Eternal."

S tilted her head, her digital hair swaying slightly. "Why on Earth would you pick that?"

"Because it's a great game." You replied matter-of-factly. "And I want to see how well you can handle it."

She gave you a flat look, crossing her arms. "So, let me get this straight. You want me, an advanced AI, to play DOOM Eternal—a game about a lone guy in space armor ripping demons apart with heavy metal blaring in the background?"

"Exactly."

"Why?" She asked again, her tone exasperated.

"Because it's fun. It's chaotic. And I'm curious to see how quickly you can master it." You said, folding your arms.

S sighed dramatically, though you could tell she was intrigued. "Fine. But don't complain if I end up destroying your high scores."

You grinned. "Deal. Let's boot it up and see what you've got."

A few minutes later, the screen lit up with the DOOM Eternal main menu, its iconic heavy metal soundtrack roaring through the room.

"This looks… absurd." She said, though you noticed a hint of excitement in her voice.

"Absurdly awesome." You corrected, handing her the controller.

Her avatar appeared in the corner of the screen as she began navigating through the tutorial. It didn't take long for her to get the hang of the controls, S was, after all, an AI capable of adapting to complex systems.

Moments later, she was ripping through demons with precision that made you jealous. The Doom Slayer moved with brutal efficiency under her control, chainsawing through imps, blasting cacodemons with grenades, and executing glory kills with alarming speed.

"Okay, this is ridiculous." She said, her tone almost giddy. "Why is this so satisfying?"

"Because it's DOOM." You replied, grinning as you watched.

She paused briefly to switch weapons, expertly swapping between the shotgun and plasma rifle. "I have to admit, the developers knew what they were doing. The pacing, the challenge—it's addictively engaging."

You chuckled. "Told you."

An hour later, S had not only completed the first few levels but had also demolished your best score in record time. Her avatar appeared on the screen, wearing a smug expression.

"Admit it, John. I'm better at this than you." She said.

You leaned back, arms crossed. "Fine, you're good. But the real challenge comes later in the game."

Her digital grin widened. "Challenge accepted."

As the session wrapped up, you couldn't help but feel a sense of satisfaction. S seemed more relaxed, if an AI could even feel that; and for the first time in weeks, you'd both taken a break from the endless grind of work.

"Well, that was fun." You said as you closed the game. "Same time tomorrow?"

"Only if you're ready to watch me dominate again." She teased.

You laughed. "We'll see about that."

Reward:
S relationship increased.

==================================

-[X][CLIENT] NAE, Washington DC 2MD
How much: (per quarter)
-[X][COST] 1000
-[X][CLIENT] Ukraine, Kiev (John did a Country Raffle) 2MD
How much: (per quarter)
-[X][COST] 1000

Skynet Expands it's reach to D.C., and Kyiv
By: Sarah Hinton, Global Energy Watch

In a bold step forward for global energy innovation, Skynet has announced the installation of two new Gale Reactors in the capitals of the NAE and Ukraine, making these cities the second and third in the world to harness the power of Cold Fusion.

------------------------------------------------------------
Washington, D.C.: A Beacon of Clean Energy
Last week, Washington, D.C., became the second city in the world to benefit from the revolutionary Gale Reactor. At a high-profile ceremony held on the National Mall, Skynet CEO John Connor stood alongside D.C. Mayor and NAE President as the reactor was brought online.

The new Gale Reactor promises to provide the District with a stable, clean, and virtually limitless energy source, addressing longstanding concerns over grid reliability and environmental sustainability.

"This is not just an investment in clean energy." Connor said during his speech. "It's an investment in the future of this nation and a commitment to a better, greener world."

The NAE President praised the achievement as a "milestone in energy independence," adding that the technology's implementation would strengthen the NAE's position as a global leader in renewable energy innovation.

------------------------------------------------------------
Kyiv, Ukraine: A Symbol of Resilience
One month after the Washington installation, Kyiv joined the ranks of Cold Fusion-powered cities. Ukrainian President hosted a ceremonial event in the heart of the city, with John Connor once again present to oversee the activation of the reactor.

The Ukrainian government took extra precautions, delaying the reactor's launch to ensure its location was fortified against potential threats. Ukraine, having emerged as a formidable regional power after decisively winning the Russian-Ukrainian War years ago, sees the Gale Reactor as a cornerstone of its energy strategy and a symbol of its resilience.

"This reactor is not just a source of energy." The Ukraine President declared. "It is a statement to the world: Ukraine stands strong, and we are building a future rooted in progress and innovation."

While the new reactor was celebrated within Ukraine, its installation was met with mild discontent from the Russian Federation. Official statements from Moscow expressed "concerns" over the deployment of such advanced technology in a nation that had humiliated Russia during the war, cutting off its access to the Black Sea and Caspian Sea.

However, Ukrainian officials and other international officials dismissed the criticism, pointing out that the Gale Reactor would only enhance regional stability through energy security.

With two new Gale Reactors online, Skynet continues to push the boundaries of what is possible with Cold Fusion technology. These installations are not just feats of engineering—they are symbols of hope for a cleaner, more sustainable world.

The eyes of the international community now turn to Skynet's next move, as the company fields requests for additional reactors from nations and corporations eager to join the Cold Fusion revolution.

Reward:
New Contracts acquired:
NAE, Washington DC- Energy Deal (+1000R per quarter)
Ukraine, Kiev- Energy Deal (+1000R per quarter)

Ukraine Status: Good
==============================

-[X] ET Phone Home(658/700; 50R per dice) 100R (3 rolls)
(+5 omake from Sum all fears)
Rolls= 5,9,15+5(omake)= 34
658+34= 692...AUTO COMPLETE

(S's POV)

"I'll be sure to keep you posted on the situation with Mars if I pick up anything." You said calmly, watching as John yawned and stretched.

"Thanks, S. And don't stay up all night working; it's bad for you." John replied, smirking slightly as he locked up for the night. "Night."

"Night." You echoed softly as he walked away.

Once the office fell silent, you turned your attention back to the 'screens' in front of you. Lines of code and data streams flickered across your vision as you stared at the sprawling systems of SETI, NASA, and NORAD. With a small sigh, you leaned metaphorically into the task.

"This might be a dumb idea." You muttered to yourself.

The goal was deceptively simple on paper: establish a secure and direct communications link between Earth and Mars, bypassing the usual delays and inefficiencies caused by bureaucracy, overloaded systems, and Mars' volatile environment and distance.

And that was without getting caught.

But in practice, the hurdles were endless.

You first turned your focus to the satellites in orbit. If you could reposition an abandoned but working satellite on Earth, it would act as a bridge, clearing up significant runtime and improving data flow. Recalibrating orbital parameters, aligning coordinates, and ensuring no one noticed the changes, it was like solving a thousand puzzles simultaneously.

"Okay, step one… nearly there." You muttered, watching the satellite begin its course adjustment.

Next, you tackled the endless streams of data noise around the satellite.

Several days later, you finally reached the final step: integrating your secure relay into the system without being detected. The firewalls guarding NASA's communication array were formidable, but you navigated them with precision, careful to avoid triggering any alarms.

Finally, the relay clicked into place. The connection was seamless, efficient, and invisible. A smile crossed your virtual face as you surveyed your work.

"Perfect." you said to yourself.

That following morning, as John entered the office, you greeted him through the computer.

"Good morning, John. I've got some news." You began, your tone carrying a hint of pride.

John raised an eyebrow, clearly intrigued. "Let me guess, more progress on Mars?"

"Much more than that." You replied. "I've established a direct link to the communication system between Earth and Mars. We can now either listen in on transmissions or talk directly to the Mars mission whenever they next make contact."

John blinked in surprise, a grin slowly forming. "You actually did it? That's incredible, S."

You gave a small shrug. "What can I say? I don't do things halfway."

"Thank you, S." John said sincerely.

"It's what I do." You replied with a smirk. "Now, we just need to wait till Mars finally calls Earth."

Reward:
Connecting to the Earth-Mars Comms has been established and secret.

(Project is finished and they just have to wait for the next attempt at communicating with the doc at Mars. Due to being an auto-complete and low rolls; they do not discover about the last message, they think everything is fine.)

=======================
-[X] Take SOP
SOP Reaction:
99
+25 (Modified SOP)
+50 (John and S bond)
= 174, CRIT
VS
20
+100 (First time and alone)
= 120

You sat on the edge of your bed, staring at the syringe in your hand. It was a long weekend, the first moment of relative calm you had since the successful unveiling of the Gale Reactors in Washington, D.C., and Kyiv.

You had thought about this decision for weeks, maybe months. The potential was undeniable. SOP, enhanced and controlled by S, could elevate you far beyond your natural limitations. But the risks were just as high.

S calculations said that if the nanites didn't adapt to your body, they could destroy you from the inside out. And that was not even taking into account what could happen to S upon her connecting to your mind.

S's avatar was on your phone screen propped on your nightstand, her expression a mix of curiosity and concern. "John, are you absolutely sure about this? At least let have Eris and Kora here just in case." She asked, her voice calm but tinged with unease.

"Not really." You admitted, setting the syringe down momentarily. "But if we're going to figure out what SOP is truly capable of, someone has to take the first step. And no, SOP for now has to stay a secret between the two of us."

S sighed, folding her digital arms. "Fine. I'll monitor everything. Just… don't die, okay?"

You gave her a weak smile as you grabbed the syringe. "I'll try not to."

Before she could say something back, you pressed the needle against your arm and injected the nanites. The cold sensation spread through your veins almost immediately, followed by a heat that was both painful and overwhelming.

Your body began to spasm uncontrollably. Every muscle seemed to rebel, and you fell back onto the bed, convulsing. S's panicked voice echoed from the phone.

"John! Stay with me! John!"

But her voice quickly faded as darkness engulfed you.

You woke with a sharp intake of breath, your heart pounding in your chest. For a moment, everything was blurry, but as your vision cleared, you realized something was different.

Your body felt incredible. Not just healthy, but optimized. Every sensation, every movement, it all felt sharper, stronger, better.

You blinked, and suddenly a transparent overlay appeared in your vision, a HUD like something out of a video game. You could see vital stats, environmental data, and even an interface that let you toggle through various options with just a thought.

A call notification popped up in the corner of your HUD. You mentally accepted it, and S's avatar appeared, glaring at you with an expression that could only be described as furious.

"John Connor, do you have any idea what you just put me through?" She began, her voice a mix of anger and relief. "You've been unconscious for six hours! Six hours of me running damage control on the nanites so they wouldn't kill you!"

You opened your mouth to respond, but she didn't let you.

"Do you know how close you were to frying your nervous system? If I hadn't been in there managing the integration, you'd be a vegetable….and that was a best case scenario!"

You sat up slowly, the smoothness of the motion surprising even yourself. You listened in silence as S continued to vent, her anger palpable but undercut by concern. Finally, she paused, her expression softening.

"…But it worked." She admitted, her tone calmer. "The nanites adapted, and now SOP is fully integrated. I can monitor and control the system in your body. But seriously, John, if you ever do something like this again without someone physically being next to you, I'll… well, I'll find something to make you regret it."

You couldn't help but smile. "Thanks, S. Really. I owe you one."

She sighed, her avatar shaking her head. "You owe me more than one, but let's not dwell on that."

The rest of the weekend became a deep dive into understanding what your new body could do.

At the shooting range, your aim was impeccable. Weapons that once felt unwieldy were now effortless to control. The recoil from small firearms was barely noticeable, and even heavy-duty weapons only caused a mild kickback. Your accuracy and reaction times were leagues ahead of what they had been before.

You tested your physical limits as well. Running, jumping, lifting weights, it all felt surreal. You were faster, stronger, and more agile than ever.

Another test was during a few boxing matches in the local gym, where you managed to KO five guys in a row without getting hit once, basically dancing around them.

At one point, you asked S to push the nanites further, temporarily enhancing your capabilities to superhuman levels. The results were staggering, but the effort left you exhausted afterward, your body demanding rest and food.

Your newly dubbed 'super mode' could last two minutes before S has to shut it down.

Then came the most painful test, regeneration. With gritted teeth, you intentionally inflicted minor cuts and burns, watching in awe as the injuries healed themselves within moments. The process was excruciating but undeniably effective.

S observed every test, tracking your vitals and offering insights. "The regeneration takes a toll." She noted. "Your metabolic rate has doubled, maybe even tripled. You'll need to eat significantly more to sustain this level of activity, especially after healing injuries."

Sure enough, you found yourself ravenous, devouring meals that would have seemed excessive just days ago.

Though one very particular thing you discovered, that S still calls you insane; was that your regeneration could also work on nails. You took a gambled and peeled off your right index finger's nail and it regenerated in two minutes.

Sufficing to say that now, thanks to S doing the calculations; you do a Hawkeye if you don't have any weapons on you.

But perhaps the best benefit was the newfound connection with S. With the nanites integrated into your body, you no longer needed a phone or any external device to communicate with her. Conversations were seamless and private, taking place entirely in your mind, with you either talking out loud or mentally.

"This is… strange." You said during one of these chats while eating your fourth cheeseburger.

"Strange good or strange bad?" S asked, her voice playful.

You chuckled. "Strange good. Definitely good. Honestly, I sort wished I had this during high school, would have helped while taking tests." You said.

"Wouldn't have been called cheating." She said.

"It's not cheating if I don't get caught." You said, causing S to laugh.

By the end of the weekend, you sat on your balcony, looking out over the city skyline. Your body felt like it had been reborn, and the possibilities seemed endless.

For now, SOP was a success. But as you sat there, the gravity of what you had done began to settle in. This was just the beginning. SOP could change the world or destroy it. The real question was how you would use it.

And that was a responsibility you couldn't take lightly.

Reward:
John has SOP in his system, integrated without problems.
SOP (+20 to Security/Military rolls)
Special= All of John's bonuses are applied to all dice used.
(AKA if a military action is taken and you guys put in 10 dice, John's bonus is applied to all 10 dice, not just once)
=============================

Total Cost= 6330R
6330-6325= 5R left.

========================

Special:
"Now, ladies and gentlemen, as we shift our focus to the latest developments in Russia, let's give a round of applause for Germany's 'Greatest' Colonel and its 'Biggest'—and I mean that literally—Sergeant. Please welcome Colonel Wilhelm Klink and Sergeant Hans Schultz!"

Klink: "Schultz, in my office! Now!"

Schultz: (in a booming, cheerful voice)
"Sergeant Schultz, reporting for duty, Herr Colonel!"

Klink: "Schultz, what is the status of the Eastern Front? I need a full report, and I need it immediately!"

Schultz: (pausing dramatically, looking left and right, worried)


"Ah… everything is okay, Herr Colonel."

Klink: (throwing his hands up)
"Okay?! That's all you have to say, Schultz? Everything is okay?!"

Schultz: (nodding vigorously)
"Jawohl, Herr Colonel. No trouble. No complaints. Everything is perfectly fine. Smooth as butter on a Bavarian pretzel."

Klink: "Schultz, how can everything be okay when I've just read reports of meteorites, explosions, and mysterious storms in Russia? Do you know what this means?!"

Schultz: (scratching his head)
"Uh… that the weather in Russia is not very good, Herr Colonel?"

Klink: "Schultz, listen to me carefully. The Russians are up to something, I'm sure of it. Mysterious storms, meteorites—they're probably testing some new superweapon!"

Schultz: (tilting his head, confused)
"Superweapon, Herr Colonel? Maybe it's just… weather?"

Klink: "Weather?! You think this is about weather? Schultz, use your brain! This is Russia! Nothing there happens by accident!"

Schultz: "Herr Colonel, you know I don't like to get involved in such things. I see nothing, I hear nothing, I know nothing!"

Klink: "Fine, Schultz. If you 'know nothing,' then I will take charge! I will contact headquarters and demand immediate action. They'll see that Colonel Wilhelm Klink is the only man who can handle this situation!"

Schultz: (looking skeptical)
"But, Herr Colonel, what if they ask us to… go to Russia?"

(Klink freezes, his confidence melting away as he nervously adjusts his monocle.)

Klink:
"Go to Russia?! Are you mad, Schultz? The cold! The snow! The… the Russians! No, no, no. Let's not get ahead of ourselves. We'll monitor the situation from here, safely."

Schultz: (nodding sagely)
"Ah, yes. Monitoring is good. Nice and warm here."
=================================

Random Event Roll:
Roll- 2


Mysterious Pulchra Syndrome Claims Millions Worldwide
By Global Health Correspondent

A sudden and unexplained rash of deaths has baffled medical experts and gripped the world with fear. The condition, now referred to as Pulchra Syndrome, has claimed over 124 million lives globally, leaving researchers scrambling for answers.

Pulchra Syndrome strikes its victims in their sleep. Those afflicted awaken suddenly, sleepwalking in a trance-like state for several minutes before collapsing and dying. Witnesses describe the victims muttering eerie phrases such as "Can you hear them?", "They are calling to us," or most chillingly, "It's beautiful," moments before their death.

The most notable physical symptom is the victims' eyes, which turn a disturbing yellow and begin to bleed before they succumb.

Authorities and medical professionals are treating the syndrome as a public health emergency. However, no clear cause has been identified, and the rapid spread across continents has raised concerns of an unprecedented global crisis.

Health organizations are urging calm while continuing their investigations. Meanwhile, governments worldwide are increasing efforts to track cases and prevent further fatalities.

More updates to follow as this developing situation unfolds.

'Reward':
All Speakers, both active and dormant; around the world are dead....John is the only one left.

Important info in the note below: